Flute concertos constitute one of the few media in which it's generally more interesting to listen to contemporary music than to the works of past centuries. In the first place, there really are no masterpieces for the instrument from the classical and romantic periods onward (and that includes Mozart's two works, which are the best of a pretty sad lot). Second, modern composers have an unparalleled range of contrasting styles and instrumental timbres to work with, and these can be used to showcase the flute in ways that offer listeners more than enough contrast and musical interest to sustain a large-scale work. For these reasons, even if she were not an amazingly talented performer, Sharon Bezaly deserves great credit for inspiring a run of really good, modern music. The three concertos here offer a case in point.David Hurwitz, Classics Today
The Aho in particular would make a splendid calling card for any enterprising flutist, and we can only hope that Bezaly receives many invitations to perform it abroad. It's that good, and so is she.
Classics Today, September 2005
Sharon Bezaly´s virtuosity and commitment are fabulous and the sound is beautifully balanced and vivid. Muso , August 2005
Here is testament to the high standard of creativity and music-making in the Nordic countries. These three concertos are major works, skillfully written for a virtuosic soloist and orchestra, filled with musical ideas of great beauty and interest, sensitively played and conducted, all captured in spacious stunning sound. The common factor is flautist Sharon Bezaly, to whom these concertos are dedicated. It is plain to hear why the composers were so inspired by her artistry, and also why BIS is making a significant commitment to recording her: this is the most technically assured, breath-takingly brilliant flute-playing around.
Fanfare, January / February 2006