The Hubs Review, Ron Simpson, November 2021

“Never knowingly underused, the Howard Assembly Room opened up on late Sunday afternoon, hosting a short, imaginatively curated, impeccably performed concert by two of the stars of the Opera North Carmen, Chrystal E. Williams (mezzo) and Camila Titinger (soprano). …

Chrystal Williams chose a song by Margaret Bonds who, as a female black American composer in the middle of the 20th century, had indeed to be fearless to succeed. Williams sang The Negro Speaks of Rivers, Bonds’ setting of the Langston Hughes poem, with deep involvement, aided by David Cowan’s surging piano accompaniment. …

Williams sang and acted Rossini’s Una voce poco fa from The Barber of Seville superbly, ranging from the docile to the tigerish … and spoke movingly of the plight of black American slaves before launching into a stunning set of spirituals, culminating in the triumphant Ride On, King Jesus. …”

Fearless – Howard Assembly Room, Leeds

The Hubs Review, Ron Simpson, October 2021

“The most exciting performance came from Chrystal E. Williams (this season’s Carmen) recalling her religious upbringing in the United States with two spirituals. In the version by celebrated choir leader and arranger Hall Johnson This Little Light of Mine emerged as more art song, given an emotionally charged treatment by Williams, but Ride on, King Jesus was all dramatic intensity and triumphant vocal attack. As well as providing an immaculate piano accompaniment to all the singers, David Cowan introduced the songs and the singers who then talked about their choice of songs – and Williams’ bubbling enthusiasm and infectious enjoyment communicated with the audience as much as her superb singing.”

Opera North: Home from Home – Howard Assembly Room