“In the [Christmas Oratorio] solo quartet Bach gave the central role to his mezzo-soprano. Sylvia Leith brought a plummy, opulent vocal tone to these crucial arias, especially in Part II’s ‘Schlafe, mein Liebster,’ the oratorio’s finest. Velvety legato articulation and some flashy ornamentation adorned Part I’s ‘Bereite dich, Zion,’ another highlight… Leith’s interpretation of Part III’s ‘Schliesse, mein Herze’ excelled most of all.” — Charles Downey, Washington Classical Review

“The standout was Leith, whose rich sound and unforced lyricism anchored the vocal ensemble.” — Tom Manoff, Oregon Arts Watch

“Leith delivered a fabulous aria in Part 2 (“Sleep, my most Beloved …”), and she was key in the group’s ensemble work.” — Michael Andor Brodeur, The Washington Post

“Mezzo-soprano Sylvia Leith[’s] voice bloomed beautifully and conveyed the tenderness of the text” — Patrick McCoy, Across the Arts

“For anyone who hadn't experienced the solo voices in the Bach Festival Chorus before, mezzo Sylvia Leith quickly established that they would be topnotch, with a creamy rendition of the "Prepare thyself, Zion" aria, preceded by a stirring recitative.” — Perry Tannenbaum, Classical Voice of North Carolina