“The public’s overwhelming consensus was easily won by the young American soprano Liesl Odenweller, who possesses an impressively effortless and secure technique. This was evident particularly in her interpretation of Gilda in Rigoletto, a role that is perfect for her vocal abilities, which allow her to soar in impressive pyrotechnics with great agility and ease even in the highest register.”    -- Il Gazzettino di Venezia, February 1999