“The music of Puccini, though, with its heart-forward affect and relatable drama, was where Rowley felt most at home. In three early Puccini songs on the program — which were later developed by the composer into operatic grist in La Rondine, Manon Lescaut, and La bohème — she offered a big, clear singing presence and convincing emotion. Her “Un bel dì, vedremo” from Madama Butterfly (sung by Cio-Cio San, a role that has inspired Rowley “more than any she has undertaken”) was suitably wrenching without seeming maudlin. A highpoint to the evening, it was deserving of the encore that followed, “O mio babbino caro” from Gianni Schicchi.”
Cleveland Classical