Iwona Sobotka received glowing reviews following her performance in Verdi's Messa da Requiem with Orchestre National de France under the baton of Riccardo Muti at the Philharmonie de Paris. The concert, held on October 4th, 2024, featured Sobotka stepping in as a replacement for Juliana Grigoryan in the soprano role. It was broadcast live and is available to listen to on Radio France’s website.
“Alongside him, the soloists are fueled by the same fire, starting with the luminous and powerful voice of Iwona Sobotka, whose constant homogeneity unfolds effortlessly in a demanding and often exposed writing.” (Classykeo)
“The sublime Agnus Dei duet is also dominated by Iwona Sobotka – called in to replace Juliana Grigoryan. With more power than finesse, the soprano has the energy and volume required to take on the orchestra and choir in the final Libera me – Aida is hinted at, but not without elegance.” (Erwan Gentric, Bachtrack)
“Iwona Sobotka stood out in the soprano role. Her voice quickly found its footing and delivered its best: a brilliant and round timbre, immediately resonant in the Philharmonie (occasionally dominating the soloist quartet), with confident and committed high notes, capable of softening into delicate sustained tones that impressed, overcoming the many challenges of the score with musicality. The performer engages with the text with a certain theatricality, not excluding genuine sensitivity, which flourishes in the final Libera me." (Olyrix)
“Soprano Iwona Sobotka (first prize winner of the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 2004), stepping in at the last minute for Juliana Grigoryan who was originally scheduled but unwell, impresses with her commitment.” (ResMusica)
The performance is available for listening on Radio France
https://www.radiofrance.fr/francemusique/podcasts/le-concert-du-soir/riccardo-muti-dirige-le-requiem-de-verdi-7718650
Iwona Sobotka
Soprano
