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The Concerto by Montero, whose piano part was played by Chinese-Canadian pianist Sheng Cai, showed us a new orchestral formation with strings. The sound, dynamics, and balance in relation to the soloist were exceptional. His role as accompanist was very well achieved...The soloist, crystalline and detailed, offered a heartfelt interpretation of this work.
*****5 stars, By Irene Littfack, 18th, November 2019 Bachtrack, London
A Compelling Schumann Recital
Perhaps surprisingly, the Arabesque is the real gem of the recital. This is a heart-felt performance and an unqualified sucess.
Fanfare Magazine US, October 2019
Sheng Cai is a Canadian pianist with a growing international reputation. The playing on this disc is remarkable. In Franz Liszt’s 12 Transcendental Etudes (1852), what stand out are clear voicing, fine control of dynamics and a sense of expressive freedom.
Roger Knox, The WholeNote, September, 2019
Wisely, he does not attempt to overwhelm with Herculean forte dynamics at the climax. Clearly he captures the poetic side of Liszt compellingly... Everything works here, as octaves thrill, low chords toll ominously and powerfully, and dynamics fit in well with the emotional pitch of the music, all adding up to very good, demonic Liszt.
Robert Cummings
Inernational Music Web Review, London, UK, August 2019