Musical Opinion Magazine Review This is an utterly delightful record of 18th-Century Sonatas for Mandolin, comprising six such works which reveal the range of expression and of interest that the instrument enjoyed, the more so in combination with Basso Continuo. Although it is certainly true that in the majority of cases the works conform to a familiar Allegro-Largo-Allegro structure, none of the pieces chosen are predictable in their utterance. A very good example of this is the D major sonata by Emanuele Barbella (1718-1777), the five movements of which almost make a set of character studies – the conducting Gavotta Allegro assai being quite brilliant in itself and is quite brilliantly played here. Indeed, every one of these performances is admirable and Frances Taylor, alongside her fellow-musicians, has produced a recital disc which is much to be commended. I must add that this programme is not merely for ....continued in right-hand panel				....from left-hand panel specialists; "music-lovers" in general will find much to enjoy and appreciate here, the more so for the excellently balanced recording quality, made in the beautiful acoustic of the Church of St Bartholomew in Brighton. The cover photograph is particularly appropriate. A splendid disc. ROBERT MATTHEW-WALKER Muscal Opinion Magazine Visit Frances Taylor's Website