"You're tempted to think Rossini's ultra-intricate coloratura writing is the near-exclusive property of Cecilia Bartoli. But Wool has a comparable accuracy rate and a more pleasing technical approach. Like many big-house singers, Bartoli tends to aspirate on individual notes, giving them a machine-gun-like penetration. With her more demure, smoky timbre, Wool phrases more smoothly - better to achieve moments of specific dramatic relevance. Born on Long Island and educated at Yale, she's also an able actress: Her Cinderella was free of self-pity and full of mischief. She's also a captivating presence. Can you ask for anything more?"
"To the title role, Leah Wool brings a soft-grained mezzo-soprano and dark-haired physical charm. An affecting Cinderella, Wool convinces as both the scorned stepdaughter and the radiant woman who wins the prince's heart. Looking like a dream in her gorgeous gown, she sings the joyous final rondo fluently…"
Concertonet.com (Robert Baxter)
"The soul of "La Cenerentola," of course, is in its Cinderella, and this production has a heartbreaker in Long Island native Leah Wool. With her doe eyes, wide smile and raven hair, the mezzo resembles the young Cecilia Bartoli (who made her name in this role)…Wool's voice is perfectly formed, though, her phrasing of Cinderella's slower, sad-eyed music beautiful, the top notes of her benevolent final aria and cabaletta sparkling."
Princeton Star-Ledger (Bradley Bambarger)
