In Europe and America, the ensemble opera company is virtually extinct – the ease of jet travel and the huge rise in fees have made loyalty to a single company almost impossible. “Yet in cash-poor Eastern Europe, great operatic ensembles survive and even flourish. The Kirov Opera in St Petersburg is a company rich in big voices of a splendour that is virtually extinct in Europe and the US, as well as a superb chorus and many promising newcomers.” – The Telegraph (UK)