Oceanic Voices is interesting.

I learned about Paola Prestini from my own students of Italian at Bard College. Kasja Sadej, Leona Carney, and all the other gifted sopranos in the MS Program in Vocal Arts were amazed at the talent and creativity of Paola Prestini. When I heard Oceanic Verses (Carnegie Hall and VOX), I understood why that music and those words can be so moving. I wish Paola were selected for Orpheus Proj 440.

Paola's music sounds like nothing else, yet seems to come from the four corners of the earth. She's a force to be reckoned with, an inspiration, and I agree with Wendy that Orpheus would be fortunate to have a new piece by her.

This music is very beautiful. I have absolutely no authority to critically analyze it, but when I put it on I feel better.

Keep up the great work!

Very Different from the other entries--very striking and beautiful!!

As I continue to listen to these young composers, Ms. Prestini is definetly one who has collected all music of all eras, and embodied them into a unique and original world. It is striking, arresting and keeps your mind and ear attuned to what she has to say. If this is what she does for the voice, I want to hear what she does with an orchestra.

Hello, this is Paola. Thanks for the comments. The singers are Leona Carney, Rie Miyake, and Kasia Sadej; wonderful singers from the Bard program.

Who are the singers in this? There are no credits for the performers...

I've been to both the Carnegie Hall and the NYC Opera VOX performances and was deeply moved by Paola's music. There were many teary eyes in the audience when they gave her a standing ovation at VOX. This is my number one choice to be included in the Orpheus Project 440.

Paola is a powerful force in new music and the cultural life of our time.
Her music is far-reaching and deep.
She'd represent Orpheus brilliantly, and truly deserves selection.

Paola's work is earthy and mystical, lush and extremely beautiful while being vibrant. Hers is a unique and true voice.

The stirring in my soul, the song in my heart these are expression which are difficult to capitalize on but the music of composer Paola Prestini is a powerful representation of the human experience.

Paola is one of my favorite composers - a true original!

I know, as one of the other nominated composers, I'm not supposed to root for my competition, but in this case I cannot help it. This piece is just wonderful--I've been in the house for several iterations (Carnegie Hall, VOX) and was moved in different ways both times. Tremendously touching and effective, emotional and spirited, and without an insincere note. By using all the tools composers are supposed to use (harmony, form, orchestration, pacing, mood, variety) Paola has made an endearing and completely unique confection. It just sounds like her.

Paola Prestini is one of my most favorite composers of all times. Her music in imaginative, lyrical, hauntingly beautiful, and extremely powerful. I am often moved to tears listening to her works! And I have had the great honor to play her piece "Oceano" for Solo Cello, and have worked with her extensively being part of her company Vision Into Art performing many of her works. Orpheus should be very honored to have the opportunity to perform her work. She most definitely deserves it. This piece is absolutely beautiful!

Paola's music is extremely well crafted and unwaveringly beautiful. At a time when too many composers (several of which are on the nomination list) have decided to write quasi-indie rock minimalism simply because it is in vogue, Prestini has stayed true to her voice and is writing music that connects and is deeply personal.

This is amazing! I really love the deep feeling of folk roots in your music.
You should win.

Most interesting and moving. Creates a lovely and exotic mood. I'd like to hear more from this composer. Reminds me a bit of the style of the chorus Les Voix Bulgares who made a very memorable recording a while ago.