I flew to Kansas for this concert and it was probably the highlight of my year thus far. The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a stunning venue and perfect for Joyce, who as the hometown girl is hugely popular. She was alive with excitement which was palpable. The selection of music was wonderful - some of not heard by most of us before, and all of it sung in her impeccable style. What a singer she is! And she is so charming, so personable, and so un-diva like for a truly great Diva! The added bonus for me was meeting her afterwards when she came out to sign programs or CDs. I will enjoy reliving this wonderful musical experience though this download for many years to come. Dont miss the PBS special either!

What a thrill it was to be present in the gloriously new Helzberg Hall at the Kauffman Performing Art Center in Kansas City for this concert. This recording is a companion to a PBS special airing later this week. The program documents the amazing and versatile Joyce DiDonato as she prepares for and performs this concert in her own hometown with the Kansas City Symphony. Her charm is equal to her talent, and it's wonderful to have this recording as a souvenir of such an evening. The program showed her at her strengths -- both in the florid dramatic passion of the Rossini and in the contemporary mix of emotions in the Heggie. And the Kansas City Symphony nearly glows -- both in their accompaniment of DiDonato and on their own.