United Kingdom

Classical music in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland can be traced back to the thirteenth century. Essentially it is similar to music which developed in continental Europe, but with unique styles for each of its major nations - England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.  There was a period of rebirth of classical music from the second half of the nineteenth century into the early years of the twentieth century, when it became more important in society, and significant national identities began to emerge.

 

A selection of articles about United Kingdom

Ensemble. In Nottingham's Albert Hall - Mike Wheeler feels privileged to hear works by young composers at a BBC Proms concert in Nottingham

Spotlight. Excellent New Restorations - Gerald Fenech strongly recommends music by Vaughan Williams, played by Frederick Grinke. '... really beautiful music and memorable performances ...'

Classical music news. Malcolm Arnold Festival - The nineteenth annual festival devoted to the music of English composer Malcolm Arnold will take place in October 2024

Classical music news. Finale's Last Year - A big shake-up in the world of music notation software

Classical music news. Obituary - Alexander Goehr (1932-2024)

Classical music news. Pachelbel Carols - News from British composer and arranger Paul Ayres

Ensemble. A Sumptuous Programme - Roderic Dunnett reports from the 2024 Three Choirs Festival in Worcester

Spotlight. The Tyranny of Consensus - John Dante Prevedini discovers a missing chapter in the history of electronic music in England. '... increased subtlety and variety of techniques employed ...'

'Obscure' Repertoire - Important advice for pianists

Classical music news. Burkard Schliessmann - SOMM Recordings announces the exclusive signing of German pianist Burkard Schliessmann

Classical music news. Boston Philharmonic Orchestra - Staff changes and 2024/25 programme

Spotlight. Pleasant and Tuneful - Gerald Fenech finds Volume 4 of John Wilson's Eric Coates orchestral series charming, and looks forward to the next instalment. 'Splendidly performed and recorded ...'

Classical music news. Emerging Genius - A biographical novel tells the tale of a talented but maligned composer, plus other news

Classical music news. Punkt Kontrapunkt - A selection of forthcoming performances

Ensemble. More than just a stir - Lucas Ball listens to music by Chilcott, Mealor, Stanford and Whitacre at the 2024 Three Choirs Festival

Classical music news - August 2024 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Christopher Wheeldon's new ballet - A new ballet inspired by life and work of Oscar Wilde is to receive its first performances by the Australian Ballet and will be streamed worldwide

Ensemble. Invigorating, Appetising and Beguiling - Roderic Dunnett discovers Giuseppe Gazzaniga's 'Alcina's Island' at Bampton Classical Opera

Ensemble. A Big Disappointment - In the last of his reports from the 2024 Buxton Festival, Mike Wheeler experiences Ethel Smyth's comic opera 'The Boatswain's Mate'

Spotlight. An Enterprising Addition - Gerald Fenech listens to music by Karl Jenkins. '... the trump card of this issue must be Jess Gillam ...'

Ensemble. Unanimity and Feel for Lively Interaction - Mike Wheeler hears music by Bridge, Elgar and Brahms from the Dante Quartet

Classical music news. August 2024 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our August 2024 video newsletter - Initiating change, and the programming of living composers

Ensemble. Music of the Spheres - Mike Wheeler listens to an eclectic programme from pianist Ryan Drucker at the Buxton Festival

Classical music news. Obituary - Benjamin Luxon (1937-2024)

Classical music news - July 2024 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. Intelligently Structured and Winningly Executed - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Fenella Humphreys and Martin Roscoe's Buxton Festival recital marking the centenary of the death of Gabriel Fauré

Spotlight. Musical Siblings - Gerald Fenech heartily recommends Isata Kanneh-Mason's new Mendelssohn album. 'An enchanting album, sensitively performed and sumptuously recorded ...'

Ensemble. A Zany Kind of Sense - Mike Wheeler experiences Franz Joseph Haydn's opera buffa 'La Canterina'

Ensemble. A Spirited Performance - Mike Wheeler was in the audience at Buxton for Giuseppe Verdi's 'Ernani'

Ensemble. All the Expressive Bases Well Covered - Mike Wheeler was at the conclusion of Buxton Festival's Paul Lewis Schubert sonata series

Classical music news. Obituary - April Cantelo (1928-2024)

Spotlight. A Century-old Recording - Gerald Fenech strongly recommends a new restored version of an early recording of Ralph Vaughan Williams' opera 'Hugh the Drover'. '... sound quality is not what we would expect today, but in a sense, therein lies its charm and fascination.'

Ensemble. Brilliantly Imaginative Staging - Mike Wheeler witnesses the devastating conclusion to Handel's 'Il Trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno' at the Buxton Festival

Ensemble. Clearly Going Places - Mike Wheeler listens to the Kleio Quartet's Buxton Festival recital

Ensemble. Dramatically Unsatisfactory - Mike Wheeler explains his opinion of Peter Brook and Jean-Claude Carrière's take on Bizet's 'Carmen'

Ensemble. Contrasting Emotional Worlds - Mike Wheeler notes the distinction of Paul Lewis as a Schubert interpreter at the 2024 Buxton Festival

Mozart in Italy - Mike Wheeler, in the first of several visits to this year's Buxton Festival, listens to a discussion between Jane Glover and Leah Broad

Spotlight. Drama and Emotion - Gerald Fenech finds much to enjoy and discover on this recent Verdi album from Freddie De Tommaso, Riccardo Chailly and colleagues at Teatro alla Scala, Milan. '... Chailly's spirited empathy for these pieces is evident throughout, and the La Scala forces respond with flair and vigour, as does tenor Freddie de Tommaso.'

Spotlight. A Stupendous Box Set - Gerald Fenech strongly recommends Antonio Pappano's complete symphonic, concertante and sacred music recordings with the Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia. '... music-making of exceptional passion and indescribable beauty that exalts the listener to heights of immense joy and feverish excitement.'

Ensemble. Remarkable Assurance - Mike Wheeler savours an Anglo-American programme from the Sitwell Singers

Ensemble. Touchingly Apt - Mike Wheeler was at Nottingham Royal Concert Hall's farewell to Mark Elder as he steps down as musical director of the Hallé Orchestra

Richly-designed and original - Roderic Dunnett looks forward to the Three Choirs Festival, 27 July - 4 August 2024 in Worcester, UK

Classical music news - Nathalie Stutzmann - The French conductor has signed a new exclusive recording agreement with Erato

Classical music news - June 2024 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Obituary - Luciano Iorio (1937-2024)

Resounding Echoes by Robert McCarney - Imaginary Concert No 1

Spotlight. Anything but Indifferent? - Keith Bramich listens to music by Jane Stanley. '... by turns beautiful, cheeky, dreamy, engaging, gentle, intimate, modern-sounding, poised, reflective, serious, spatial, swirling and thoughtful.'

Classical music news - Jason Phillips - American composer and combat veteran Jason Phillips has composed a symphony and completed his graduate studies at Arizona State University

Ensemble. A Very Satisfying Evening - Keith Bramich enjoys a charity concert in London

Ensemble. Impressively Sung - Ron Bierman listens to a song recital by Andrea Carroll and Joshua Guerrero, accompanied by Stephen Hopkins

Spotlight. Consistently Transparent - Gerald Fenech listens to organ concertos by Arne. '... a vibrant energy ...'

Ensemble. Thoroughly Attractive - Mike Wheeler listens to Glazunov orchestral music

Ensemble. Wholly Fresh Life - Roderic Dunnett attends two events in the UK to hear the work of Ian Venables

Spotlight. A Common Objective - Ron Bierman's 2011 DVD review of a concert given by Daniel Barenboim's West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, republished with an update about the orchestra. '... a tremendous, emotional, not-to-be-missed experience.'

Classical music news - May 2024 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Spotlight. In the Shadow of War - Geoff Pearce listens to piano concertos by British composer George Lloyd. '... there is much to be gained from this set ...'

Classical music news. Misha Kaploukhii - The UK's Newbury Spring Festival announces the winner of the 2024 Sheepdrove Piano Competition

Spotlight. Originality and Freshness - Geoff Pearce is impressed by Steve Elcock's Violin Concerto and Eighth Symphony. '... well-balanced and quite beautiful ...'

Spotlight. A Kind of Reconciliation - Keith Bramich enjoys his journey through Stacy Garrop's oratorio 'Terra Nostra'. '... powerful, quirky and beautiful by turns, given life by the soloists, chorus and the varied orchestral accompaniment ...'

Ensemble. An Almost Physical Impact - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Brahms, Chopin, Butterworth and Elgar from Stephen Hough, Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra

Ensemble. Romantic Energy - Lucas Ball listens to music by Tchaikovsky and Sibelius from Katy Smith, Keith Slade and the Worcestershire Symphony Orchestra

Classical music news. Who's gone where? - News about signups etc

Classical music news - Birmingham Classical Season - B:Music announces its 2024/25 Birmingham (UK) Classical Season at Symphony Hall

Ensemble. Bright and Dark - Mike Wheeler listens to music by Johannes Brahms and Antonín Dvořák from Sunwook Kim, Alexandre Bloch and the Philharmonia Orchestra

Classical music news - Anna Thorvaldsdóttir - The Icelandic composer's new orchestral installation receives its first performances on 1 June 2024 at the Reykjavík Arts Festival

Classical music news - Gerard Schurmann Centenary Video - A new video has been published to mark the centenary of the British composer's birth

Ensemble. Plenty of Vigour and Panache - Mike Wheeler reacts to music by Holst, Andrew Carter, Moses Hogan and John Rutter

Ensemble. Birthday Boys - Mike Wheeler reports from a celebratory Sitwell Singers concert featuring Bruckner and Cornelius

Ensemble. A Huge Dynamic Range - Mike Wheeler listens to Maria Ioudenitch, Stanislav Kochanovsky and the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra

Classical music news. May 2024 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our May 2024 one hour video newsletter - Improvisation in the classical world and beyond

Classical music news - April 2024 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Spotlight. Harmonically Exotic - Gerald Fenech finds a new recording of Delius' Hassan absolutely riveting. '... these performances are as dynamically dazzling as they are irrepressibly exciting and incandescent.'

Spotlight. Fresh and Interesting - Geoff Pearce listens to chamber music by British composer Kenneth V Jones. '... a valuable discovery.'

Classical music news. Obituary - Andrew Davis (1944-2024)

Spotlight. Delightful and Skilfully Crafted - Geoff Pearce listens to oboe concertos by Hertel. 'Oboist Katarzyna Pilipiuk is superb. She produces a pleasing tone, is precise in her fingerwork and has marvellous intonation.'

Spotlight. Precious, Luminous Gems - Esdras Mugatik listens to music for accordion by British composer Ronald Stevenson (1928-2015). '... a magical capacity to differentiate levels of sound ...'

Spotlight. An Immediate Impact - Geoff Pearce listens to Pärt and Shostakovich. '... something very special indeed.'

Spotlight. Surprisingly Excellent - Gerald Fenech recommends music by Martucci. '... Martucci's music is so well crafted with an abundant spring of melody that one never tires of listening to it.'

Spotlight. Mysteriously Fascinating - Gerald Fenech wholeheartedly recommends orchestral music by Béla Bartók. 'The BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra plays flawlessly throughout.'

Spotlight. A Real Find - Geoff Pearce urges you to listen to this recording of Tippett's 'A Child of Our Time'. '... something very special indeed.'

Spotlight. An Original Voice - Geoff Pearce listens to Romanian conductor Sergiu Celibidache conducting Franck and Debussy. '... something very special indeed.'

Ensemble. A Particular Delight - Mike Wheeler listens to the Aquinas Trio

Profile. To Vladivostok With Thanks - Memories of the Russian pianist and teacher Vadim Suchanov (1949-2024) from Béla Hartmann

Spotlight. Compelling Throughout - Gerald Fenech warmly recommends Karl Jenkins' 'The Armed Man'. '... the performance is one of the most moving I've heard in recent times ...'

Ensemble. A Remarkable Concentrated Stillness - Mike Wheeler reviews a restrained but purposeful account of J S Bach's St John Passion

Ensemble. An Evening of Vocal Distinction - Roderic Dunnett reports on Massenet's 'Cendrillon' from the UK's Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

Classical music news. April 2024 Newsletter - Our April 2024 PDF newsletter has just been published, featuring some music festivals around the world this year

Ensemble. Little Short of Miraculous - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Hanni Liang's pianism, but reports that some audience members were unhappy with her recital's lecture element

Ensemble. Radically New for Western Audiences - Adam J Sacks reports from the Hong Kong Arts Festival

Classical music news. New Releases for April 2024 and Later - Browse a selection of new recordings

Ensemble. A Generally Engaging Performance - Mike Wheeler listens to Elgar, Rachmaninov, Debussy and Dvořák in Derby Cathedral

Ensemble. Satisfyingly Impressive and Exciting - Ron Bierman listens to Musorgsky, Rachmaninov and Elgar in San Diego

Spotlight. Fling Wide the Gates - Keith Bramich listens to Delphian Records' new recording of John Stainer's 'The Crucifixion'. '... excellent and committed performance ...'

Spotlight. A Lovely, Lovely Issue - Gerald Fenech recommends music by Handel and Vivaldi from Daniel Sæther and Ensemble C4. '... up there with the very best ...'

Ensemble. Serious Emotional Turmoil - Mike Wheeler finds that the ending of Opera North's 'Così fan tutte' works brilliantly

Classical music news - March 2024 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. A Sure Feel for Dramatic Pacing - Mike Wheeler reviews Opera North's Mascagni/Rachmaninov double bill

Ensemble. A Fascinating Mix - Mike Wheeler listens to a joint concert by Derby Cathedral Choir and Sinfonia Viva

Spotlight. A Winning Personality - Gerald Fenech strongly recommends music by Eugène Ysaÿe on the Avie Records label. '... passionate intensity and inspired brilliance ...'

Ensemble. All to Play For - Mike Wheeler listens to Bruckner's Symphony No 8 from Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra

Classical music news - Liberation Festival - Jersey's international festival of classical music and jazz runs from 9-18 May 2024

Classical music news - Chandos Records - British classical record label Chandos Records has been acquired by Klaus Heymann, the founder of Naxos

Spotlight. Neither Romantic nor Modern - Gerald Fenech recommends Francesca Dego's new recording of violin concertos by Brahms and Busoni. '... splendidly recorded and annotated ...'

Ensemble. Dazzling Virtuosity - Mike Wheeler listens to Valentin Silvestrov, Rachmaninov, Manuel de Falla and Musorgsky from Russian pianist Victor Maslov

Spotlight. Fire and Brimstone - Gerald Fenech marvels at Alpesh Chauhan's new Tchaikovsky recording with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra for Chandos. '... Chauhan's passionate approach is consistently vibrant, sensitive and fastidiously attentive to orchestral details.'

Classical music news. March 2024 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our March 2024 one hour video newsletter - Classical Music and Politics

A Crack in Time? - A rare Leap Day editorial from Keith Bramich

Ensemble. An Almost Physical Impact - Mike Wheeler is impressed with the return of Dinis Sousa and the Royal Northern Sinfonia to play Prokofiev, Mozart and Beethoven

Ensemble. Luminous Playing - Mike Wheeler is impressed by French/German pianist Elena Fischer-Dieskau's performances of Mélanie Bonis, Robert Schumann and Rachmaninov

Spotlight. Vitality and Freshness - Gerald Fenech is delighted by Bojan Čičić and Steven Devine's recording of Handel's violin sonatas. '... infectious warmth and extraordinary dexterity ...'

Spotlight. A Great Release - Geoff Pearce appreciates Laura van der Heijden and Jâms Coleman's cello and piano recital. '... the performers do not appear to be recorded with microphones too close, which results in realistic blending, and also a feeling of distance, perhaps reflecting the distant and mysterious qualities of the moonlight.'

Spotlight. Absolute Brilliance - Gerald Fenech recommends Warner Classics' forty-two disc set of recordings by Paavo Berglund. '... a precious treasure-trove packed with musical diamonds that took twenty-seven years to complete.'

Ensemble. Something Remarkable - Mike Wheeler listens to mostly avian music from Edouardo Strausser and the CBSO

Classical music news - Jess Gillam - The British saxophonist and her ensemble join Intermusica Artists' Management Ltd

Spotlight. Sumptuously Fragile Sounds - Gerald Fenech joyously recommends keyboard music from Handel's home in London. 'Technically flawless performances ...'

Ensemble. A Runaway Success - Mike Wheeler listens to choral music by seven students from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

Spotlight. Inexhaustible Genius - Gerald Fenech welcomes a new disc of sacred choral music by William Byrd. '... the singing is consistently exquisite, marvellously balanced and warmly intimate.'

Ensemble. Irresistibly Jolly - Mike Wheeler enjoys Sinfonia Viva's performance of Mozart's 'Gran Partita'

Spotlight. Most Satisfying - Geoff Pearce highly recommends Andrius Puskunigis' recording of Handel oboe concertos. 'This disc is one of the finest I have heard of an oboist playing Baroque music on a modern instrument.'

Ensemble. Appealingly Varied - Mike Wheeler listens to a cello and piano recital given by Kathryn Monteiro and Joanna Lam

Classical music news. February 2024 Newsletter and other news - Our February 2024 PDF newsletter has just been published, and amongst other items of news, we also feature a conversation between Tamami Honma and Barry Cooper

Ensemble. Disarmingly Elegant - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Grieg and Chopin from British pianist Alexander Ullman

Classical music news. A Miraculous Achievement - Claire Marsden visits Loughborough to play the Richard Strauss Horn Concerto No 1

Spotlight. Inspired and Joyous Choral Singing - Gerald Fenech strongly recommends choral music by Fanny and Felix Mendelssohn. '... stirring music from beginning to end from, maybe, the most famous siblings in nineteenth century musical history.'

Classical music news. New Releases for February 2024 and Later - Browse a selection of new recordings

Spotlight. Sensitively Beautiful - Gerald Fenech recommends two albums from Signum Classics, marking this year's Puccini anniversary. '... an irresistible programme full of shimmering melodies ...'

Spotlight. Gripping and Engaging - Geoff Pearce enjoys music by Edvard Grieg. 'It is especially rewarding to hear the unfamiliar works that make up much of this disc.'

Spotlight. Virtuosic Flair - Gerald Fenech recommends dance music played by Daniel Hope and the Zurich Chamber Orchestra. 'Daniel Hope's fiddle-playing is just phenomenal ...'

A Constant, Authentic Genius - Roderic Dunnett pays tribute to composer Gerard Schurmann on the centenary of his birth

Afternoon Tea with Gerard - On the eve of the centenary of the birth of composer Gerard Schurmann, Keith Bramich shares the address that he gave, remotely, at Schurmann's memorial service

Spotlight. Highly Individual - Geoff Pearce listens to chamber music by two generations of female composers. '... marvellous unfamiliar music ...'

Spotlight. One of the Happiest French Symphonies - Gerald Fenech is impressed by Édouard Lalo's orchestral music. '... consistently transparent and intensely alive.'

Classical music news - Composers and Conductors - A selection of news items from Australia, Germany, New Zealand, the UK and elsewhere

Ensemble. Refreshing and Exhilarating - Mike Wheeler starts the year with music by Dani Howard, Smetana and Richard Strauss from the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain

Spotlight. Interconnected Composers - Geoff Pearce listens to orchestral music by Ravel, Lennox Berkeley and Adam Pounds. 'The Pounds work is a revelation and I would buy this disc just for this alone.'

Spotlight. Love's Lasting Power - Keith Bramich is impressed by Schubert from Harriet Burns and Ian Tindale. '... very sympathetic to the twists and turns of Schubert's narrative ...'

Classical music news - January 2024 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Laughter and Tears - Announcing a new Canadian opera and marking the Gustav Holst anniversary at the UK's Thaxted Festival

Spotlight. Superb Playing - Gerald Fenech listens to orchestral music by Stravinsky. '... consistently transparent and intensely alive.'

Spotlight. An Impressive Achievement - Geoff Pearce enjoys piano music by Christopher Brown. 'The writing requires a great deal from the pianist, both in technique and musical understanding and in this, Nathan Williamson excels.'

Spotlight. Warmth and Charm - Robert Levin plays Mozart concertos, recommended unreservedly by Gerald Fenech. 'These are simple and uncomplicated but wholly alluring Mozartian bonbons.'

Ensemble. Brightly Delivered - Mike Wheeler finds a concert by Nigel Short's Tenebrae choir unmissable

Classical music news. January 2024 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our January 2024 video newsletter - Twenty-five Years

Ensemble. No Lack of Stylistic Variety - Mike Wheeler listens to music for two harps and various percussion from the Chroma Harp Duo

Ensemble. Mercurial Switches of Mood - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Mendelssohn, Liszt, Beethoven and J S Bach/Myra Hess played by Japanese pianist Yu Kosuge

Ensemble. Teasing Musical References - Mike Wheeler celebrates Christmas with the Sitwell Singers and conductor Dexter Drown

Spotlight. Very Interesting Listening - Gerald Fenech recommends a recording of the 1741 version of Handel's 'Messiah'. 'Soloists and chorus sing with a lyrical intensity that is impeccable throughout and Felix Koch keeps a tight rein on proceedings ...'

Maybrick - A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

Ensemble. An Undisclosed Narrative? - Mike Wheeler was delighted with music by Chabrier, Saint-Saëns, J S Bach and Rachmaninov from Bruno Philippe, Chloé van Soeterstède and the Hallé Orchestra

Ensemble. Lots to Enjoy - Mike Wheeler was at Derby Concert Orchestra's Christmas Concert

Classical music news. New Releases for January 2024 and Later - Browse a selection of new recordings

Ensemble. Expressive Variety - Mike Wheeler listens to Beethoven, Schumann and Chopin from Israeli pianist Ariel Lanyi

Classical music news. Melissa Gregory - An Australian mezzo has won the 2023 Bampton Classical Opera Young Singers' Competition

Spotlight. Synergies of Tradition - John Dante Prevedini is impressed by the Christmas music of Patrick Hawes. '... meticulously conceived across every perceptible dimension ...'

Ensemble. Sheer Irrepressible Confidence - Mike Wheeler listens to Mozart and Haydn choral music

Spotlight. A Window into the Glories of the Past - Geoff Pearce listens to Adrian Boult conducting Berg, Stravinsky and Vaughan Williams. '... truly inspired performance.'

Ensemble. Piquant Stylistic Contrast - Mike Wheeler listens to the chamber group Serenata

Ensemble. Spellbinding Musical Effect - Lucas Ball is impressed by Brahms and Wagner in Worcester Cathedral

Ensemble. Vertical and Horizontal Threads - Mike Wheeler listens to Sinfonia Viva's wind principals playing music by Maddy Aldis-Evans and Musorgsky

Ensemble. An Emotional Journey - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Jonathan Dove's 'For An Unknown Soldier'

Ensemble. Splendidly Thought-out - Mike Wheeler listens to music by J S Bach, Howells, MacMillan, Puccini, Reger, Sibelius and Vaughan Williams from the Sitwell Singers and friends

Classical music news - International Opera Awards - A series of organisations and individuals were honoured at a ceremony in Poland on 9 November 2023, plus other news

Kathleen Parlow - Esdras Mugatik writes about a Pre-Raphaelite violinist with a post-Pre-Raphaelite decline

Spotlight. Raising the Profile - Paul Sarcich listens to contemporary British music for woodwind orchestra. '... some new and interesting sounds ...'

Ensemble. An Exhilarating Celebration of Purcell's Genius - Mike Wheeler enjoys Opera North's 'eco-entertainment' based on music by Henry Purcell

The Political Symphony - Jeffrey Neil asks some searching questions about classical music and protest

Ensemble. A Joy to Watch - Mike Wheeler finds that Opera North's 'La Rondine' has all the company's usual flair, but has reservations in general about Giacomo Puccini's music

Ensemble. Miraculous Orchestration - Mike Wheeler enjoys Opera North's production of Giuseppe Verdi's 'Falstaff'

Classical music news - November 2023 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. Exceptionally Vivid Playing - Mike Wheeler listens to a highly charged performance by the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine

Spotlight. Dramatic and Passionate - Gerald Fenech ardently recommends extracts from operas in the Italian verismo tradition. 'Hindoyan gets superb playing from his Liverpudlians, and the white-hot streak of the music is delivered with unabashed virtuosity.'

Ensemble. Inventive Programming - Mike Wheeler listens to music by Vaughan Williams, George Walker and Tchaikovsky

Ensemble. Judiciously Balanced - Mike Wheeler listens to a recital by Petr Limonov

Classical music news. Solomon's Knot - Brown University's Lindemann Performing Arts Center opened recently, and Bach's Magnificat opens the Christmas season at London's Wigmore Hall

Ensemble. Baba-Yaga's Whistle - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Lyadov, Tchaikovsky, Chopin and Rachmaninov from Pavel Kolesnikov and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Vasily Petrenko

Classical music news. November 2023 Newsletter - Our November 2023 PDF newsletter, 'Beautiful, Powerful Music', has just been published

A Treasure Trove - Roderic Dunnett explores the substantial catalogue of Regent Records

Spotlight. Forty Years in Showbusiness - Gerald Fenech unreservedly recommends a new recording of Aled Jones, duetting with his younger self. '... a thrilling and vibrant journey of melodic invention.'

Ensemble. Magical Effect - Mike Wheeler listens to Mozart, Richard Strauss and Gustav Holst from Sinfonia Viva

Spotlight. A Sparkling New Edition - Ravel's complete ballet 'Daphnis et Chloé', strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... a thrilling and vibrant journey of melodic invention.'

Ensemble. Propulsive Energy and Contemplative Interludes - Mike Wheeler listens to the Coull Quartet

Spotlight. Complex and Interesting - Songs for tenor, violin, cello and percussion, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. '... the tenor, Brian Thorsett, has an admirable technique ...'

Ensemble. Superb and Imaginative Playing - Roderic Dunnett marks Thomas Trotter's forty years as Birmingham City Organist by reviewing a special anniversary recital and investigating the artist's large output on the Regent Records label

Ensemble. An Uncanny Cool and Relaxed Demeanour - Malcolm Miller is impressed by the London recital of young Chinese-Canadian pianist Kevin Chen

Classical music news. A Competition, a Resignation and a New Opera - The Global Music Education League's competition returns to China after a four-year break, Martyn Brabbins resigns from English National Opera with immediate effect, and excerpts from Jaap Nico Hamburger's new opera 'Ariella' are to be performed across Canada

Ensemble. Particularly Engaging - Mike Wheeler listens to Elgar, Anna Clyne, Ravel and Beethoven from Jess Gillam, Ben Gernon and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

Spotlight. Evocative and Quite Compelling - On the basis of the two works heard here, Geoff Pearce believes that Emily Howard's music will stand the test of time. '... the assembled forces have done a splendid job in delivering a rather startling performance.'

Spotlight. Groundbreaking Extremes - Gerald Fenech unreservedly recommends recordings of eighteenth century 'sturm und drang' music. 'Ian Page and his Mozartists deliver performances of the highest artistic standards ...'

Classical music news - Hallelujah! - Enjoy performances around the world of Handel's 'Messiah' in December 2023

Classical music news. October 2023 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our October 2023 one hour video newsletter - Classical Music and Artificial Intelligence

Spotlight. Beautiful, Powerful Music - Geoff Pearce marvels at this new recording of orchestral music by Mieczysław Weinberg. 'The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra is on top form ...'

Ensemble. 'Jazzy by Bollywood Standards' - Mike Wheeler is fascinated by the music of Supriya Nagarajan and Lucy Nolan

CD Spotlight. Serious Dramatic Goals - Gerald Fenech listens to a unique recording of Rodgers & Hammerstein's 'Oklahoma!'. 'A humdinger of an album, excitingly performed and superbly recorded.'

CD Spotlight. A Fine Interpreter - Geoff Pearce is impressed by Carlo Alberto Bacchi's recording of sonatas by Muzio Clementi. '... pianist Carlo Alberto Bacchi performs with assurance, grace and mastery.'

CD Spotlight. Exceptional Performances - Gerald Fenech unreservedly recommends Jean-Efflam Bavouzet's recordings of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Piano Concertos Nos 26 and 27. 'This is superb music making from the first to the last note.'

Ensemble. Deep Friendships - Keith Bramich is impressed by Byron Wallis, Bérengère de Gromard and Jeanne Pinget's concert in memory of Malcolm Scott

Classical music news - Malcolm Arnold Festival - The eighteenth Malcolm Arnold Festival will run from 14-15 October 2023, live in Northampton, UK, with an online day on 29 October 2023

Classical music news - Ben Glassberg - British conductor Ben Glassberg will become Music Director of Volksoper Wien in January 2024

CD Spotlight. An Exceptional Recording - Gerald Fenech finds William Vann's new recording of music by Parry revelatory. '... highly dramatic performances seething with passionate endeavour and glorious grandeur.'

Ensemble. A Magnificent Undertaking - Roderic Dunnett was at Adrian Partington's 2023 Three Choirs Festival in Gloucester

CD Spotlight. An Enticing Disc - Gerald Fenech is impressed by the music of Handel and his London colleagues. 'Boundless enjoyment from beginning to end.'

Ensemble. A Unique Sense of Bravado and Fun - Roderic Dunnett reviews Purcell's 'The Fairy Queen' at Longborough Festival Opera

Classical music news. Homo Sentiens - A veteran British conductor steps down from forthcoming performances, and the Polish festival Wratislavia Cantans embraces Mother Nature

Classical music news - The Innocent Fields - Recent items of interest, including the Presteigne Festival, Jonathan McPhee adapting Wagner, Nick Hely-Hutchinson's Perfect Pitch podcast, the Stabat Mater music calendar and a study of unusual vocal techniques

CD Spotlight. A Must-have Disc - Martin Owen plays Strauss, Schumann and Weber, strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Martin Owen's command of this repertoire is just staggering, and his sheer virtuosity is nothing short of breathtaking.'

Classical music news - Pafio e Mirra - A rediscovered Salieri ballet was 'hiding in plain sight'

Ensemble. A Formidable Creation - Roderic Dunnett experiences the first performance of the opera 'Anna' by English composer David Matthews

CD Spotlight. A Common Thread - Music by Kjetil Bjerkestrand and Philip Glass, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... a must for contemporary music lovers ...'

CD Spotlight. A Very Worthy Performance - Geoff Pearce listens to Santtu-Matias Rouvali conducting Mahler's Resurrection Symphony. '... impressive in its conception and in the quality of the chorus, band and soloists.'

Classical music news - August 2023 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. Extra Joys - Salieri at Bampton, enjoyed by Roderic Dunnett

Classical music news - Emotional Highs - Forthcoming performances in the USA and UK

Ensemble. Delightfully Unusual - Ron Bierman listens to some 'Fantastic Tales' at the La Jolla Music Society's Summerfest

Ensemble. Contrasting Moods - Mike Wheeler, in his last report from this year's Buxton Festival, is impressed by Sacha Rattle and Peter Donohoe

Classical music news. Obituary - Carl Davis (1936-2023)

Ensemble. Conjuring the Spirit of Bernstein - Adam J Sacks reports on two Boston Symphony Orchestra concerts at Tanglewood

Classical music news. August 2023 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our August 2023 one hour video newsletter - The Creative Spark

Ensemble. Bold Choices - Mike Wheeler congratulates Nicky Spence and Joseph Middleton on their Buxton Festival programme

Ensemble. An Outstanding Player - Mike Wheeler reports on Jack Hancher's Buxton Festival guitar recital

CD Spotlight. Quintessentially British - Gerald Fenech is impressed by the first recording of Vaughan Williams' 'Songs of Travel' in a 1954 recital which also includes songs by Davidson, Head, Ireland, Keel, Stanford and Warlock. '... as historically important as it is musically ...'

Ensemble. Ear-catching Details - Mike Wheeler listens to Haydn, Ravel and Dvořák from the Tedesca Quartet

Classical music news - Previews - Looking ahead to events during the 2023/24 season

Ensemble. Another Case of Mendelssohn's Influence? - Mike Wheeler listens to Verdi and Borodin from the Victoria String Quartet at the Buxton Festival

A Fresh, Different View - Roderic Dunnett previews Adrian Partington's 2023 Gloucester Three Choirs Festival

Ensemble. Opening up New Possibilities - Mike Wheeler comes across another strand in the concept of historical performance whilst reviewing Handel's 'Orlando' at the Buxton Festival

Ensemble. Really Nice People - Mozart's 'Il Re Pastore' at the Buxton Festival impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Misunderstandings and Jealousy - Mike Wheeler reports on the gender-politics of the Buxton Festival's production of Bellini's 'La Sonnambula'

Ensemble. A Fine Balance between Funny and Sad - Mike Wheeler reports from the Buxton Festival on 'The Land of Might-Have-Been'

Classical music news. Appointments - New (and existing) jobs for members of the international classical music community

Profile. A Spiritual Journey - Roderic Dunnett takes an extended look at the career of English composer Ian Venables, and listens to a recent performance of the orchestral version of his Requiem

CD Spotlight. A Neglected Masterpiece - Gerald Fenech is impressed by Martyn Brabbins' recording of Stanford's Requiem. '... vibrant music-making ...'

Ensemble. A Force to be Reckoned With - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Opera North's concert version of Bizet's 'The Pearl Fishers'

CD Spotlight. A Truly Memorable Issue - Gerald Fenech listens to orchestral anthems by several English composers. '... not only powerful but joyously uplifting.'

Ensemble. Raw Vitality with Sensitive Lyricism - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Rimsky-Korsakov, Rodrigo, Lili Boulanger and Stravinsky from Sean Shibe, Delyana Lazarova and the Hallé Orchestra

Ensemble. A Treat - Roderic Dunnett is dazzled by Rossini's 'La Cenerentola' at Neville Holt Opera

Youth Engagement in Choral Music - Scott Butterly, who has grown up in the Anglican choral tradition, argues that choirs, in any form, allow young people to fully gain the benefits of classical music

CD Spotlight. Smothered into Oblivion? - Music by Bernard Herrmann, fervently recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'This is impassioned advocacy for this American genius, in heartfelt performances full of unbridled emotion and unaffected sincerity.'

Music as a Form of Magic - Larry Sitsky: Late Piano Pieces - Second Series 2022-2023

Classical music news. Obituary - Peter Dickinson (1934-2023)

An Act of Love - Malcolm Miller discusses the play 'Dedication'

CD Spotlight. Depth of Feeling and Maturity - Geoff Pearce is impressed by Christian Li's new album for Decca Classics. '... assured technique, passion, agility and grace ...'

CD Spotlight. A Particular Mexican Sensibility - Paul Sarcich is impressed by Mexican music recorded by Mr McFall's Chamber. '... a very interesting and well-presented disc.'

Classical music news - June 2023 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

CD Spotlight. Stunning Performances - Gerald Fenech reviews two discs of music by American composer Florence Price. 'This is music overflowing with an abundance of melody, tinged with sadness and regret, which is crying out to be heard.'

CD Spotlight. Most Effective and Exciting - Geoff Pearce recommends Nigel Clarke's 'The Prophecies of Merlin'. 'Peter Sheppard Skærved certainly rises to the occasion in this demanding work.'

CD Spotlight. Overwhelming Performances - Previously unreleased recordings by Jessye Norman, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Unmissable for all opera buffs.'

CD Spotlight. Strange and Haunting - Geoff Pearce listens to music for voices and orchestra by Shostakovich. '... testament to John Storgårds' abilities to interpret this strangest of all Shostakovich's works ...'

CD Spotlight. A Glorious Compilation - Italian baroque music heard by Gerald Fenech. '... flawless, full of technical prowess, virtuosic flair and great creative energy.'

CD Spotlight. Quite Eclectic - Geoff Pearce is entertained by three absurdist works from the 1930s. '... a snapshot of a different age, captured brilliantly.'

CD Spotlight. Subtle Colours - Gerald Fenech is impressed by another volume in John Wilson's cycle of music by Eric Coates. '... the performances are consistently joyous and exciting ...'

Ensemble. An Ambitious Undertaking - Lucas Ball listens to Mahler's 'Resurrection' Symphony performed by a regional choir and orchestra

Ensemble. An Important Voice - Mike Wheeler listens to Florence Price and Dvořák

Ensemble. Brilliance, Ingenuity and Excellence - Roderic Dunnett listens to Handel's 'Agrippina'

CD Spotlight. A De-orchestration? - Keith Bramich listens to Richard Blackford's new version of Verdi's Messa da Requiem. '... Richard Blackford is a respected and experienced composer, and this is no mere thinning of the texture ...'

CD Spotlight. Contrasting Moods - Geoff Pearce is impressed by Dvořák from the Shaham Erez Wallfisch Trio. 'All three performers ... do full justice to the works they are presenting here ...'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - More corn than gold

Ensemble. Bold and Resolute - Roderic Dunnett is impressed by a performance of Amy Beach's Mass in E flat

Ensemble. Byrd in Context - Mike Wheeler hears The Sixteen

CD Spotlight. Exceptional Poise and Musicality - Operatic arias played on trumpet, highly recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Matilda Lloyd performs these phenomenal pieces with a captivating enthusiasm and irresistible grace ...'

To Talk or Not to Talk - Béla Hartmann discusses whether or not musicians should speak out in public

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - A hundred not out

CD Spotlight. Wonderful and Charming - Gerald Fenech listens to Isata Kanneh-Mason. '... the soloist's supreme mastery of each piece is unimpeachable throughout.'

CD Spotlight. A Rising Star - Benjamin Britten and Max Bruch violin concertos, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. '... Kerson Leong and the Philharmonia Orchestra provide a coherent and compelling account.'

Ensemble. A Tumultuous Climax - Mike Wheeler listens to Dvořák, Bruch, J S Bach and Rimsky-Korsakov from Daishin Kashimoto and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra with its new chief conductor Kazuki Yamada

Classical music news. Rhythms of the Brain - Performance news from Iceland, New Zealand and Malta

CD Spotlight. Colourful and Free from Pretence - Geoff Pearce explores the music of Airat Ichmouratov. '... committed and convincing ...'

CD Spotlight. An Intriguing Snapshot - Keith Bramich listens to piano music by Robert Matthew-Walker. 'Mark Bebbington ... is exemplary here, bringing out all the contrasts and mood changes ...'

Ensemble. A World-class Orchestra - Mike Wheeler is impressed by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and chief conductor Eva Ollikainen

Classical music news. The Pursuit of Musick - Some new publications and other news

Quality or Taste? - Béla Hartmann discusses quality in the Arts

Ensemble. Ear-catching Moments - Mike Wheeler listens to Bomsori Kim, Vasily Petrenko and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Looks like we got ourselves a reader

CD Spotlight. Very Satisfying - Geoff Pearce is impressed with songs by Rubbra. '... a very enjoyable and thought-provoking disk ...'

CD Spotlight. Lyrical Beauty - Gerald Fenech strongly recommends recordings of Mozart Piano Concertos Nos 24 and 25. 'Jean-Efflam Bavouzet despatches these two masterpieces with remarkable dexterity, and his playing ... is intense, powerful and spontaneously virtuosic ...'

CD Spotlight. Insightful and Compelling - Geoff Pearce is impressed by this Chandos recording of Shostakovich's Symphonies Nos 12 and 15. 'The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra is totally committed to these works and the playing, both solo and in ensemble work, is of the highest order.'

Ensemble. Simply Bewitching - Mike Wheeler listens to chamber music by Schubert and Fauré from Ruth Rogers, Fiona Bonds, Katherine Jenkinson, Benjamin Russell and Viv Mclean

Ensemble. Peak Intensity - Mike Wheeler listens to Dvořák, J S Bach, Dobrinka Tabakova and Sibelius from Jakob Koranyi, Tabita Berglund and the Hallé Orchestra

CD Spotlight. Highly Rewarding - Gerald Fenech is impressed by Stephen Hough's interpretations of piano music by Catalan composer Federico Mompou. '... Stephen Hough's marvellous passion for this music is displayed in his unique ability to bring out all the subtleties of these incomparable scores.'

CD Spotlight. A Fascinating Recording - Geoff Pearce listens to new orchestral music conducted by Mikel Toms on Ablaze Records. 'The playing from the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and overall sound of the works showcased is very good indeed, and the programme notes are excellent.'

CD Spotlight. Tremendously Attractive and Exciting - Gerald Fenech recommends this Hyperion recording of Czech harpsichord concertos. 'All praise to Mahan Esfahani and his Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra team for compiling this hugely attractive programme, which is in fact a voyage of discovery of twentieth century Czech music.'

Classical music news - April 2023 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

CD Spotlight. Very Enjoyable - Geoff Pearce listens to the Tailleferre Ensemble. 'This is a lovely disc which will delight most listeners ...'

CD Spotlight. An Impressive Calling Card - Eight new North American works for solo cello and orchestra impress Paul Sarcich. 'Recording and orchestral playing are first rate, so the composers have been well served.'

Ensemble. Resonances Far Beyond - Mike Wheeler listens to J S Bach's 'St Matthew Passion'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Wanted: Digital or Analogue

Ensemble. A Curiously Unfamiliar Masterpiece - Malcolm Miller is impressed by Hana Mizuta-Spencer's performance of Ernest Bloch's Violin Concerto

Ensemble. Sisters Under the Skin - Mike Wheeler is impressed with Opera North's production of 'Ariadne auf Naxos'

Profile. Ronald Stevenson - A little memory, a little overview and a little comment

Ensemble. A Favourite with Audiences - Lucas Ball was impressed when Andrew Slater stepped in at short notice to sing in Elgar's 'The Dream of Gerontius'

Ensemble. Distinctive Instrumental Sonorities - Mike Wheeler reports on David Pountney's re-staging of Janáček's 'The Cunning Little Vixen' for Opera North

Ensemble. Celestial Spheres - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to two British composers - Thomas Adès and Gustav Holst - in Rome

CD Spotlight. Glittering and Colourful - Orchestral music by Respighi, heard by Geoff Pearce. 'This is a lovely disc which will delight most listeners ...'

Ensemble. Exuberant and Briskly to the Point - Mike Wheeler listens to Stravinsky and Mahler from Derby Concert Orchestra

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Randomness Run Riot

CD Spotlight. Lush Orchestrations - Gerald Fenech listens to orchestral music by British composer Philip Lane. '... so much to enjoy.'

Ensemble. Charm and Elegance - Mike Wheeler is impressed by German baroque music from Sinfonia Viva

Ensemble. Captivating Performance - Mike Wheeler listens to Khachaturian, Mozart, Robert Schumann and Sibelius from Jordanian-Palestinian pianist Iyad Sughayer

Classical music news - March 2023 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Champions of Oblivion

Ensemble. Thoroughly Collegial - Mike Wheeler listens to Missy Mazzolli, Brahms and Beethoven from James Ehnes and the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Kevin John Edusei

Classical music news. March 2023 Newsletter - Our March 2023 PDF newsletter has just been published, along with some extra classical music news and our February 2023 classical music obituaries

CD Spotlight. Caruso 150 - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to Urania Records' new Caruso tribute album. 'One of the first major singing talents to be commercially recorded ...'

Ensemble. A Puzzle Without a Solution? - Mike Wheeler listens to Ravel and Chopin played by Russian-born British pianist Petr Limonov

CD Spotlight. Ingeniously Crafted - Gerald Fenech welcomes Hyperion's new recording of Carl Reinecke's piano concertos. 'A gem of an issue dedicated to one of today's great divas, whose thrilling voice has excited and captivated audiences for more than three decades.'

Ensemble. Unstoppable Panache - Mike Wheeler listens to Amy Dickson and Martin Cousin

Classical music news. Obituary - Hilary Tann (1947-2023)

CD Spotlight. Meditative yet Impassioned - Music for solo cor anglais, heard by Geoff Pearce. 'The playing in this collection of small pieces is exemplary and inspiring ...'

Classical music news. Tan Dun - Decca signs the multi-award-winning composer of 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Selling like hot cakes ... maybe, hopefully

Classical music news. Choral Music by Black Composers - Oxford University Press publishes Marques L A Garrett's significant choral music anthology

Ensemble. Breath-taking Delicacy - Mike Wheeler is impressed with Grieg and Shostakovich from pianist Elisabeth Brauss, conductor Alpesh Chauhan and the Hallé Orchestra

Classical music news - Nevis Ensemble - Due to severe funding challenges, the Glasgow-based orchestra with a vision of 'music for everyone, everywhere', has had to cease operations

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Four by Four by Five fff

Ensemble. Complete Assurance - A delectable recital by Jeneba Kanneh-Mason, heard by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news - Music, Migration and Mobility - Malcolm Miller previews a new exhibition in London about émigré composers

Ensemble. Meeting Performance Challenges Head-on - Music by Britten, Anna Clyne, Richard Strauss and Johann Strauss II from the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain impresses Mike Wheeler

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Sound Below Zero

Classical music news - English Touring Opera - New productions of Donizetti's 'Lucrezia Borgia' and Rossini's 'Il viaggio a Reims' will tour in Spring 2023

Classical music news - The Richter Scale Premixes - News from Eric Fraad's Heresy Records

Classical music news - January 2023 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Towards the Unknown Region - The late George Colerick discusses Ralph Vaughan Williams as writer on music, particularly when he turns his thoughts towards Beethoven's Choral Symphony

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - A New Look and Format

Classical music news - January Newsletter and December Obituaries - Our January 2023 PDF newsletter has just been published, along with a summary of those the classical music world lost in December 2022

CD Spotlight. Very Humanistic - Geoff Pearce enjoys a Naxos set of orchestral music by Swedish composer Hugo Alfvén. 'This is a set to be savoured.'

Ensemble. Unimpeachable Sensitivity - Mike Wheeler listens to Walton, Ravel, Gershwin and Debussy from John Wilson and the Sinfonia of London

CD Spotlight. An Important Historical Document - Patrick Maxwell listens to Vaughan Williams conducting Vaughan Williams. '... a typically ebullient and undogmatic interpretation of two central works of Britain's most popular composer.'

Ensemble. Plenty of Expressive Contrast - The Sitwell Singers' 2022 Christmas concert, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Bubbling Energy - Mike Wheeler listens to Sarah Beth Briggs

Ensemble. Bright Spots to Enjoy - Mike Wheeler was at Derby Concert Orchestra's Christmas Concert

Ensemble. Great Panache - Mike Wheeler listens to the Aquinas Trio

CD Spotlight. Very Worthwhile and Creative - Geoff Pearce discovers the music of Macedonian-born Mihailo Trandafilovski. '... the performers are outstanding ...'

Ensemble. Breathtaking Energy and Commitment - Mike Wheeler listens to Filarmonica Braşov

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - The Roots of Magic

Ensemble. Atmosphere and Precision - Mike Wheeler listens to Dutch pianist Hannes Minnaar

Ensemble. Particularly Special - Mike Wheeler finds real character in a Derby performance of Verdi's Requiem

Ensemble. Goose Bumps - Lucas Ball listens to Vaughan Williams and Delius sung by the Worcester Festival Choral Society

Ensemble. A Magnetic Presence - Mike Wheeler listens to Bartók, Dohnányi and Dvořák from Domingo Hindoyan and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra with soloist Isata Kanneh-Mason

Ensemble. A Triumph on Every Conceivable Level - Mike Wheeler reviews a production of Monteverdi's 'L'Orfeo' which merges cultural worlds

Ensemble. A Performance of Real Energy - Mike Wheeler has no complaints while listening to choral music by Vaughan Williams, Howells and Schmidt

Classical music news. December 2022 Newsletter - Our December 2022 PDF newsletter has just been published

Ensemble. More Gluck, please! - Mike Wheeler finds Opera North's production of Gluck's 'Orfeo ed Euridice' totally riveting

Ensemble. Focus and Clarity - Mike Wheeler listens to J S Bach, Chopin, Schubert and Debussy from English pianist Colin Stone

Ensemble. The Sheer Cynicism of a Hedonistic World - Mike Wheeler experiences Alessandro Talevi's revised production of Giuseppe Verdi's 'La traviata'

CD Spotlight. Generally Moving and Serenely Consoling - Gerald Fenech is impressed by choral music of Herbert Howells and Ian Venables. '... a highly attractive choral disc, refreshingly performed and sumptuously recorded ...'

Ensemble. Pretty Much Flawless - Lucas Ball listens to Beethoven, Tchaikovsky and Brahms from Viv McLean, Keith Slade and the Worcestershire Symphony Orchestra

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - Nothing Written in the Stars

Classical music news. The Birth of Chords - Watch Marina Frolova-Walker's lecture, which discusses the system that has dominated western music since the seventeenth century

CD Spotlight. Absolutely Wondrous - Steven Osborne plays Debussy piano music, greatly impressing Gerald Fenech. '... despatched with warmth and a great attention to detail ...'

Classical music news - November 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

CD Spotlight. Thoroughly Enjoyable and Witty - Gerald Fenech listens to Poulenc, on Bramwell Tovey's last recording. 'Splendidly performed and sumptuously recorded ...'

CD Spotlight. Enraptured Spirituality - Robert McCarney listens to music by William Baines. '... a very welcome CD ...'

Classical music news. Great Resilience and Creativity - Twenty finalists have been announced for the 2023 Donatella Flick LSO Conducting Competition

Ensemble. Present-day Concerns - Mike Wheeler listens to music by Valentin Silvestrov and Karl Jenkins

CD Spotlight. Alive and Impassioned - Gerald Fenech is impressed by Warner Classics' thirty CD Vaughan Williams New Collector's Edition. '... the music is often presented in all its thrilling drama to telling effect.'

Ensemble. Paths of Excellence - Giuseppe Pennisi reports via live stream on the Ravenna Festival Mozart/Da Ponte Trilogy

Classical music news. Beethoven Marathon - Julian Jacobson plays all thirty-two Beethoven piano sonatas, from memory, in one day

Ensemble. 'Three Bs' with a Twist - Russian pianist Anna Tsybuleva, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Simply Outstanding - Mike Wheeler listens to Dukas, Elgar, Tabakova and Walton from Zlatomir Fung, Ben Gernon and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

CD Spotlight. Lifetime Favourites - Geoff Pearce listens to string quartets by Ethel Smyth and Frederick Delius. '... the recording ... is of pleasing quality.'

Ensemble. Poise and Command - Mike Wheeler listens to the Fitzroy Quartet

Classical music news. Dutch National Ballet - Wins for young dancers, plus an online concert of music by Steven R Gerber

Ensemble. Looking Back and Forward - Mike Wheeler was at the first concert in Nottingham Royal Concert Hall's orchestral season

CD Spotlight. An Enticing Collection - Gerald Fenech listens to a new and unusual album of music by Ralph Vaughan Williams, released today on the composer's 150th birthday. '... superbly crafted little miniatures ...'

CD Spotlight. Some Delicious Playing - Geoff Pearce listens to Stravinsky. 'The BBC Philharmonic's performance is fine indeed ...'

Classical music news - October 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Edinburgh is a Story - Various items of news from around the world

CD Spotlight. Magnificent Throughout - Robert McCarney listens to music by Mieczysław Weinberg. '... a wonderful rich ripe legato feel and sound.'

Ensemble. Fine-tuning Still to be Done - Folk-songs collected by Ralph Vaughan Williams, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Wonderfully Attuned - Robert McCarney listens to music by Kevin Raftery. '... this is one of the most richly stimulating, impressive and sheerly enjoyable CDs of music, new or old, that I have heard in quite some time.'

Classical music news. October 2022 Newsletter - Our October 2022 MP3 newsletter has just been published

CD Spotlight. Freshness and Vigour - Robert McCarney listens to music by British composer Robert Saxton. 'This is a very well prepared and presented disc that does an excellent job of providing a portrait of the composer.'

CD Spotlight. Fascinating Listening - Music by Alban Berg, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... the BBC Symphony Orchestra is on top form ...'

CD Spotlight. A Magnificent CD - Geoff Pearce listens to music by Ruth Gipps. 'The BBC Philharmonic responds magnificently ...'

CD Spotlight. Inner Turmoil - Handel's 'Amadigi di Gaula', strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... full of passion and angst.'

CD Spotlight. Symphonic Maturity - Patrick Maxwell listens to Sibelius symphonies. '... the wind and brass playing is pristine throughout.'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney - From swerve of shore to bend of bay

Classical music news. Winners, Projects, Cancellations - Items in the news

CD Spotlight. Shared African Heritage - Samuel Coleridge-Taylor from Chineke! Orchestra, strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... riveting stuff ...'

Classical music news. Gothic Opera - This Halloween in London UK, Gothic Opera presents a double bill of unknown supernatural operas by female composers Louise Bertin and Pauline Viardot

CD Spotlight. Criminal Exploits - Geoff Pearce listens to Adrian Williams' chamber concerto 'Portraits of Ned Kelly'. 'The playing is very impressive and delivers a compelling performance.'

CD Spotlight. Exceptional Performances - Gerald Fenech listens to Mozart from Francesca Dego, Roger Norrington and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. 'Francesca Dego is an impassioned virtuoso, and her renditions are not only emotionally alive but also full of beguiling warmth and charm ...'

Classical music news. September 2022 Newsletter - Our September 2022 PDF newsletter has just been published

CD Spotlight. A Change of Direction - French music by Debussy, Dukas and Roussel, played by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Domingo Hindoyan, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. '... stellar performances ...'

CD Spotlight. A Spectacular Release - Gerald Fenech listens to film music played by John Wilson and the Sinfonia of London. '... an absolutely rewarding hour ...'

CD Spotlight. A Magnificent and Powerful Recording - Geoff Pearce listens to Augustin Hadelich. '... an impressive technique and tone ...'

CD Spotlight. Infectious Magic - Albion Records releases a disc of unusual music for the Vaughan Williams anniversary, and Gerald Fenech finds it unmissable. '... these performances are the result of deep immersion in the performing traditions of RVW's repertoire ...'

Ensemble. A Giggle from Start to Finish - Bampton Classical Opera's 'Fool Moon', experienced by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Shaped with Care - Mike Wheeler listens to Sibelius, Grieg and Dvořák from Derby Concert Orchestra and guest conductor Bob Chasey

Ensemble. Vitality and Imagination - Mike Wheeler listens to the Delphine Trio, in his last report from the 2022 Buxton Festival

Ensemble. Songs from the Shows - Mike Wheeler enjoys a 'Strictly Musical' evening at Buxton Opera House

Ensemble. Handel vs Bononcini - Mike Wheeler listens to the English Concert and soprano Anna Dennis at the Buxton Festival

Ensemble. A Welcome Opportunity - Mike Wheeler listens to the recital 'Colour My Song' at the 2022 Buxton Festival

Ensemble. Effectively Communicated - Mike Wheeler listens to Kate Whitley and Laura Attridge's oratorio 'Our Future In Your Hands' at Buxton

Ensemble. Full of Vitality - Mike Wheeler listens to the Solus Trumpet Ensemble at the 2022 Buxton Festival

CD Spotlight. Nobler in the Mind? - Giuseppe Pennisi finds Joseph Summer's 'Hamlet' a musical hodgepodge. '... almost in late Romantic style.'

Ensemble. An Extraordinary Journey - Mike Wheeler listens to Charles Owen's piano recital at the 2022 Buxton Festival

Ensemble. Cohesive Ensemble Playing - Mike Wheeler reports on Jonathan Dove's 'Mansfield Park' at the Buxton Festival

Ensemble. A Massive and Moving Sound - Keith Bramich listens to Dvořák's Requiem at the first evening concert of the 2022 Three Choirs Festival in Hereford Cathedral

Ensemble. Noteworthy and Sometimes Momentous - Roderic Dunnett visits the UK's Garsington Opera for Britten's 'The Turn of the Screw'

Ensemble. Sit Back and Enjoy the Ride - Mike Wheeler experiences 'Viva la Diva' at Buxton

Ensemble. Warmth and Sassiness - Mike Wheeler was at Buxton Opera House for 'Gypsy: A Musical Fable'

Ensemble. Taut and Focused - Mike Wheeler reports from the Buxton Festival on Rossini's 'La Donna del Lago'

Ensemble. Stunningly Staged and Sung - Longborough Festival Opera's 'Die tote Stadt', extolled by Roderic Dunnett

Classical music news - July 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. A Triumph - Roderic Dunnett listens to two one-act operas

Classical music news. July 2022 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our July 2022 newsletter - Youth Involvement in Classical Music

Ensemble. A Rare and Novel Experience - Opera Warwick's production of Weber's 'The Marksman', heard by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Commemorating Malcolm Goldring - The Sitwell Singers pay tribute to their former conductor, with help from various friends and colleagues, including a new work written for the occasion by Bob Chilcott, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Compelling Performances - Music by John Ireland, recommended by Geoff Pearce. 'John Wilson and the Sinfonia of London have really made these works sparkle ...'

Ensemble. Deeply Mystical Intentions - Wagner's 'Parsifal', on tour with Opera North, heard by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news - June 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. Bright Spots - Mike Wheeler listens to Jess Gillam and the Hallé Orchestra conducted by Stephen Bell

CD Spotlight. Simply Irresistible - Gerald Fenech listens to two albums of British music. '... an inspiration for other composers ...'

Ensemble. Three Days at the Ravenna Summer Festival - Giuseppe Pennisi reports from 'The Italian Salzburg'

Classical music news. Obituary - David Lloyd-Jones (1934-2022)

Classical music news. June 2022 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our June 2022 newsletter - a special feature on women composers

Classical music news - May 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

CD Spotlight. A Rich Tradition - Gerald Fenech listens to orchestral music by American composer William Grant Still. 'A peach of an issue, superbly performed, recorded and annotated.'

Ensemble. Effectively Realised - Mike Wheeler listens to Brahms' Requiem

Ensemble. A Crash Between Worlds - Adam J Sacks describes something entirely new, combining Brahms and Radiohead

CD Spotlight. Solace to Listeners - Patrick Maxwell listens to a box set of John Barbirolli's Elgar recordings for Warner Classics. '... a musical artefact which still tells us how Britain's most famous composer really can sound like ...'

Ensemble. In Full Command - British harpist Lucy Nolan plays music by Marcel Tournier, Benjamin Britten, Sally Beamish, Paul Patterson, Tsvetlina Likova and Astor Piazzolla, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Very Infectious - Gerald Fenech listens to several recent recordings of British music. 'Another stylish re-issue in a series that is experiencing a highly deserved renaissance.'

Ensemble. Becoming One - Mike Wheeler listens to music by Raphael Clarkson, Cecilia McDowall, Beethoven, Bartók, Preetha Narayanan and Mozart to celebrate Sinfonia Viva's fortieth anniversary

Ensemble. The Complete Shostakovich String Quartets - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to Quartetto Prometeo in Rome

Ensemble. Suggesting the Possibility of Renewal - Beethoven, Brahms, Vaughan Williams and Walton from Boris Giltburg, Vasily Petrenko and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Borrowing Music by Other Composers - Gerald Fenech unreservedly recommends the compilation opera 'Caio Fabbricio'. '... brilliant performances from both singers and players ...'

CD Spotlight. Simply Outstanding - John Eliot Gardiner's nine CD Purcell set, strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... renditions out of the ordinary, where Gardiner's expressive ardour and unbridled intensity allow him to reveal all the gracefulness, subtlety, pathos and nobility of Purcell's uniquely human music.'

CD Spotlight. Masterly Playing - Boris Giltburg plays two very different Beethoven piano concertos, strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... brilliantly supported by Vasily Petrenko and his Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra ...'

Classical music news. Music Competitions - Here are details of various music competitions taking place during the coming months

Ensemble. Welcome Back, Puritani - Giuseppe Pennisi was in the audience, in Rome, for Bellini's last great masterpiece

Classical music news - April 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. Fascinatingly Elusive - Dora Pejačević, Sibelius and Mahler from Tamsin Waley-Cohen, Jan Latham-Koenig and the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Poise and Sensitivity - Mike Wheeler listens to baroque choral music by J S Bach, Handel and Purcell

CD Spotlight. Incomparable Musical Beauty - Gerald Fenech listens to Elgar's 'The Dream of Gerontius' from Carnegie Hall. '... a precious addition to this acclaimed treasure trove of historic recordings ...'

Classical music news. Obituary - Lyell Cresswell (1944-2022)

CD Spotlight. An Immense Achievement - The final disc in Naxos' series of John Philip Sousa wind band music, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... Keith Brion and his players do themselves proud with some superb playing full of dash and swagger ...'

Classical music news. April 2022 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our April 2022 newsletter

Ensemble. Assumed Identities and Mis-matched Couples - Mike Wheeler reviews Tim Albery's production of Handel's 'Alcina' for Opera North

Ensemble. A Real Celebration - Mike Wheeler listens to Dvořák, Bruch and Brahms

Ensemble. Original and Impressive - Geoff Pearce listens to Adrian Williams' Symphony No 1

Ensemble. Symbolism and Realism - Mike Wheeler experiences Opera North's new production of Verdi's 'Rigoletto'

CD Spotlight. Uncloaking a Sonic Universe - John Dante Prevedini listens to Rebeca Omordia's album 'African Pianism'. '... a compact, balanced and vital gateway to the work of African composers in the Western classical tradition ...'

Classical music news - March 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

CD Spotlight. Utterly Beautiful - Nadejda Vlaeva plays piano music by Bulgarian composer Pancho Vladigerov, delighting Roderic Dunnett. '... a notably original disc ... well worth exploring.'

Ensemble. Simply Outstanding - Mike Wheeler is impressed by performances of Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky and Myroslav Skoryk from Patricia Kopatchinskaya, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra

Ensemble. Eloquently Projected - Mike Wheeler is impressed by the Fitzroy Quartet's performance of music by Haydn, Mozart, James MacMillan, Arvo Pärt and Beethoven

CD Spotlight. Important Women Composers - British music by Ethel Smyth, Susan Spain-Dunk, Constance Warren and Ruth Gipps, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... performances of the highest calibre, combining irrepressible beauty and fragility with technical mastery that brings out all the suavity of these sophisticated creations.'

CD Spotlight. Exhilarating from Start to Finish - Gerald Fenech listens to suites of incidental music by Arthur Sullivan. 'Andrew Penny is an enthusiastic advocate of this composer, and his lively and beautifully shaped interpretations are a treat to the ear.'

Ensemble. Changing Moods - Mike Wheeler listens to a talk about, then a performance of, Elgar's Symphony No 1

Classical music news. March 2022 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our March 2022 newsletter

Ensemble. Complete Assurance - Mike Wheeler listens to Mozart, Debussy and Prokofiev, played by Ke Ma

CD Spotlight. Many Fine Moments - Geoff Pearce listens to Richard Strauss played by the Carnegie Mellon Wind Ensemble. '... a fine disc of works which are not recorded so often ...'

CD Spotlight. Songs of Stevenson - Roderic Dunnett listens to a recital by Scottish bass Brian Bannatyne-Scott. '... a notably original disc ... well worth exploring.'

CD Spotlight. Highly Romantic - Gerald Fenech listens to orchestral music by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. '... this re-issue still sounds fresh and lively, credit to Adrian Leaper's advocacy for this fine music ...'

In Memoriam – Joseph Horovitz (1926-2022) - Malcolm Miller writes about the British Vienna-born composer, conductor, pianist and teacher

Ensemble. A Fascinatingly Piquant Sound-world - Music for saxophone and harp, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Touching Moments that Stir the Soul - Gerald Fenech listens to J S Bach, Buxtehude and Schütz, performed by Iestyn Davies and colleagues. 'The richness of the music is matched by the glorious singing and playing of Jonathan Cohen's team ...'

Ensemble. A Compelling Intimacy - Mike Wheeler listens to Beethoven and Berlioz from Stephen Waarts, the Hallé Orchestra and Maxime Pascal

Ensemble. Modern Madrigals in the Seventeenth Century - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to vocal music by Gesualdo and some of his contemporaries

CD Spotlight. Preserving Byrd's Momentum - John Dante Prevedini listens to William Byrd's keyboard music, played by Friederike Chylek. 'In every one of Chylek's interpretations, I hear an uncommonly sober balance of emotional expressiveness with technical clarity ...'

CD Spotlight. A Series of Polished Gems - Roderic Dunnett listens to chamber, instrumental music and songs by Gerard Schurmann. 'This is one of the most enchanting, fragile, flawless song cycles I have ever heard, anywhere.'

Ensemble. A Wide Chronological and Stylistic Range - Mike Wheeler listens to British pianist George Harliono

CD Spotlight. Beauty and Emotional Depth - Geoff Pearce recommends Schubert's 'Winterreise', performed by Mark Padmore and Paul Lewis. '... everything that I could wish for ...'

Ensemble. Excitement at Coventry Cathedral - Roderic Dunnett experiences Nitin Sawhney's new work 'Ghosts in the Ruins'

Ensemble. Wonderfully Gutsy - Mike Wheeler listens to Franz Schmidt, Rachmaninov and Dvořák in Nottingham

Classical music news - January 2022 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world lost this month

CD Spotlight. A Magical Touch with Orchestral Colours - Music by Ravel, heard by Natalie Artemas-Polak. 'John Wilson and the Sinfonia of London's superb disc is a joy to listen to, and the sound quality is crisp and clear.'

CD Spotlight. Lovely and Very Effective - Music from Central and Eastern Europe for cello and piano, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... very gifted, skilful and inspired ...'

CD Spotlight. Magical Stuff - Gerald Fenech listens to Eric Coates' 'Springtime Suite' and other orchestral works. 'Andrew Penny and his Slovaks deliver some absolutely gorgeous performances full of warmth, charm and grace ...'

Ensemble. Káťa Enthralls Rome - Giuseppe Pennisi experiences a Janáček first performance in Italy's capital

CD Spotlight. Vivacious Performances - Music from Scotland, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... a spectacular album full of inspirational melodies that go straight to the heart.'

Ensemble. An Italian Creation - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to Giuseppe Carpani's Italian language version of Haydn's oratorio

CD Spotlight. Highly Imaginative - Fantasies by Sousa, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... the music is as exciting and entertaining as one would wish for.'

CD Spotlight. Underground Virtuosity - John Dante Prevedini listens to viol consort suites by Matthew Locke. 'Locke's imitative counterpoint shines through with a crispness and clarity ...'

Classical music news - December 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world lost last month

Ensemble. A Sonic Silk Road - Music for guitar, for erhu and for the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Adam J Sacks

CD Spotlight. True to the Composer's Original Intentions - Schubert's Octet, heard by Geoff Pearce. '... the sound is detailed and crisp, and the balance is good.'

Ensemble. Nicely Contrasted - Mike Wheeler listens to Christmas music from Derby Bach Choir, Derventio Brass and Old Vicarage School Choir

Ensemble. Neatly Characterised - The Cann Twins play Rachmaninov, Rimsky-Korsakov, Brahms, Johann Strauss II, Tchaikovsky, Gershwin and Jeffrey Reid Baker, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Hugely Enjoyable - Bernstein, Marsalis and Musorgsky from Nicola Benedetti, Cristian Măcelaru and the Hallé Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Dash and Swagger - Gerald Fenech listens to Arthur Sullivan's 'Victoria and Merrie England'. '... playing of the highest order ...'

CD Spotlight. Imaginative and Different - A variety of Christmas music from Navona Records, heard by Keith Bramich. '... played superbly.'

Ensemble. A Fun Evening - Mike Wheeler listens to a pre-Christmas programme from Derby Concert Orchestra

Ensemble. Beautifully Controlled - Mike Wheeler listens to piano music by Claude Debussy, Rhian Samuel, Francis Poulenc, Martin Butler, Robert Schumann and Benjamin Britten, played by Helen Reid

Ensemble. An Exciting New Partnership - Mike Wheeler listens to Dinis Sousa and the Royal Northern Sinfonia

Ensemble. A Splendid Achievement - Fareed Curmally listens to the Chamber Orchestra of the Symphony Orchestra of India

Ensemble. Powerful, Exhilarating Results - Mike Wheeler reports on Opera North's production of Leonard Bernstein's 'Trouble in Tahiti'

Ensemble. Josquin 500 - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to the Tallis Scholars in Rome

Ensemble. Firmly Projected - Mike Wheeler listens to Schumann and Musorgsky from Sicilian-born pianist Giuseppe Guarrera

Ensemble. A Sleek, Focused Sound - Mike Wheeler reports on Opera North's production of Bizet's 'Carmen' in Nottingham

CD Spotlight. A Treasure Trove of Unending Melodic Content - Gerald Fenech listens to music by Leroy Anderson. 'Leonard Slatkin and co are on top form, and their performances are superbly rounded, full of swagger and consistently fresh and spirited.'

CD Spotlight. Immensely Soothing - Gerald Fenech listens to music by Eric Coates. 'Adrian Leaper is an avid devotee of this genre, and he delivers performances that sparkle with a rhythmic immediacy that magnifies the flow of each piece.'

Ensemble. Songs of Farewell - The Sitwell Singers' first concert since the passing of conductor Malcolm Goldring earlier this year, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news - October and November 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this and last month

Ensemble. Earth and the Future of Mankind - Giuseppe Pennisi experiences 'Koyaanisqatsi', by Philip Glass, in Rome

Ensemble. Sheer Naked Energy - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Mendelssohn and Beethoven from Nicola Benedetti, Tom Service, Nicholas Collon and Aurora Orchestra

Ensemble. A Gesture of Defiance - Mike Wheeler listens to Haydn, Bartók and Schubert, played by the Iuventus String Quartet

Ensemble. Tantalising Appeal - Mike Wheeler listens to the strings of Sinfonia Viva

Classical music news. November 2021 Newsletter - Watch and listen to our November 2021 newsletter

Classical music news. Obituary - Bernard Haitink (1929-2021)

CD Spotlight. Welcome back Lord Berners - Gerald Fenech listens to two stage works by an enigmatic English composer. 'Soloists and chorus deliver some flawless singing, and their great attention to the text creates a sense of reverential homage to the sacred.'

Ensemble. A Masterly Balance - Mike Wheeler listens to J S Bach, Liszt and Schubert from Emmanuel Despax

Ensemble. Highly Effective - Chamber music from members of Sinfonia Viva, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Intimacy and Intensity - Ian Bostridge and Imogen Cooper at the Oxford Lieder Festival impress Patrick Maxwell

Ensemble. Water Under the Bridge - Mike Wheeler welcomes Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra back to Nottingham's Royal Concert Hall for the opening of the new season

Classical music news. Paloma O'Shea Competition - Register by 18 October 2021 to take part in the 2022 Paloma O'Shea Santander International Piano Competition

CD Spotlight. Miniature Gems - Light music by Ronald Binge, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... brimming with lilting music that is as dramatic as it is evocative, colourful and harmonically exquisite ...'

CD Spotlight. Vaughan Williams and English Folk Songs - Simon Farrugia recommends Albion Records' astonishing new recording. 'The freshness of sound presented in this album gives a new dimension to Piazzolla's music ...'

Classical music news. Obituary - András Ligeti (1953-2021)

Classical music news. John Poole - A memorial concert for British conductor John Poole was live-streamed from London

CD Spotlight. Birdsong Fragments - 'Songs of Travel and Home' performed by Jullien van Mellaerts, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... a singer with a very expressive voice, a pleasing tone, a great insight into the music he sings ...'

CD Spotlight. Contrapuntal Mastery - Gerald Fenech listens to an overture and symphonies by Andreas Romberg. 'Kevin Griffiths and his Dutch players etch out some bright and eminently satisfying performances, and their advocacy for this music brims with enthusiasm.'

CD Spotlight. A Wayward Artist with Many Talents - Gerald Fenech listens to music by Gerald Hugh Tyrwhitt-Wilson. 'David Lloyd-Jones has this music under his skin ...'

CD Spotlight. Fresh Appraisals - Roger Norrington's interpretations of Bruckner symphonies, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Commendable, if somewhat unorthodox.'

CD Spotlight. Brief Time Well Spent - John Dante Prevedini listens to music for six solo voices and electronics by Gregory W Brown. '... engaging, provocative and full of genuine surprise.'

Ensemble. Very Convincing - Lucas Ball listens to Bach and Buxtehude at last month's Three Choirs Festival in Worcester UK

Classical music news - August 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Profile. Landmark Collaborations - A personal reminiscence of British conductor Lawrence Leonard, by Keith Bramich

CD Spotlight. Fluent and Popular Music - Ketèlbey piano works, commended by Gerald Fenech. 'Rosemary Tuck despatches these pieces with vigour and gusto ...'

Ensemble. Backwards and Forwards - Mike Wheeler rounds up his coverage of the 2021 Buxton Festival with concerts by Sarah Connoly, Roderick Williams and Natalie Clein

CD Spotlight. An Exquisite Compilation - A selection of popular orchestral music, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Spiritedly performed and superbly recorded ...'

Ensemble. A Session of Role-play - Mike Wheeler is impressed by a very unusual performance of Handel's 'Acis and Galatea'

Ensemble. Camping it Up? - Mike Wheeler has some doubts about the Buxton Festival production of Pauline Viardot's opera 'Cendrillon'

Ensemble. A Kind of Troubled Exaltation - Mike Wheeler listens to an organ recital by Peter Wright

Ensemble. Particularly Striking - Mike Wheeler listens to the Richard Roddis Singers, performing for the first time in over two years

Ensemble. A Delightful Surprise - Mike Wheeler reports from the first of Derby Cathedral's summer organ recitals

CD Spotlight. Existential Uncertainty - Symphonic and chamber music by Christopher Gunning, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... both performances are nothing short of exhilarating ...'

Ensemble. The Early Bird Arrives - Two more concerts at the 2021 Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Year Late - Keith Bramich pays a visit to the Three Choirs Festival

Ensemble. Utterly Compelling - Errolyn Wallen's sequel to Purcell's 'Dido and Aeneas', experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Fairy-tale Opera for the 21st Century - Mike Wheeler experiences Jonathan Dove's 'The Enchanted Pig' at the Buxton Festival

Ensemble. Quietly Compelling - Two Buxton Festival concerts involving the guitar, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Long-lost Operatic Masterpiece? - Mike Wheeler is not so sure about Malcolm Arnold's 'The Dancing Master', as performed at the Buxton Festival

Classical music news - July 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. Whatever He's On, I Want Some - Mike Wheeler listens to Kathryn Stott's Buxton recital

CD Spotlight. A Very Special CD - Band music by John Philip Sousa, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Sensitive and engrossingly passionate performances ...'

Ensemble. Virtuoso Exuberance - Mike Wheeler listens to the Pelléas Ensemble at the Buxton Festival

Ensemble. A Magical Production - Mike Wheeler reports on the Buxton Festival's first ever musical - Stephen Sondheim's 'A Little Night Music'

Ensemble. Everything you know is wrong! - Mike Wheeler listens to The Sixteen in Derby

CD Spotlight. What to do with Bach? - Patrick Maxwell listens to the 'Goldberg Variations' on the accordion. 'Telari plays with an alluring sensitivity ...'

CD Spotlight. Hugely Influential - Music by Richard Addinsell, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... absolutely enthralling, revelatory and consistently vibrant.'

Classical music news - Newsletter plus June Obituaries - Classical Music Daily's July 2021 Newsletter, has just been published, along with a summary of musicians the classical music world lost last month

Ensemble. Fresh and Appealing - Mike Wheeler listens to the Françaix Wind Trio

CD Spotlight. Flowing Melodies - Romantic music for piano and orchestra by Jerzy Gablenz and Ignacy Jan Paderewski, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... full of bouncy energy, exuberant flair and spectacular pianism ...'

Ensemble. Seven Siblings - Mike Wheeler listens to performances by members of the Kanneh-Mason family

Classical music news. July 2021 New Releases - A selection of new recordings

CD Spotlight. A Strong Partnership - Riviera Lazeri and David Boldrini play Martinů Cello Sonatas, heard by Geoff Pearce. '... the performances on this disc are truly very admirable.'

Ensemble. Down with the Piano Lid - Mike Wheeler listens to Ivan Hovorun

CD Spotlight. Artistic Heritage - Music by Henry Purcell and John Taverner, unreservedly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... the singing and playing are consistently warm and passionate ...'

CD Spotlight. Transcendental Studies - The music of English composer Kaikhosru Shapurji Sorabji from an Italian perspective, by Giuseppe Pennisi. 'On the two CDs, Fredrik Ullén demonstrates enthusiasm for Sorabji as well as high technical skills.'

Ensemble. Time to Become More Widely Known - Keith Bramich listens to orchestral and chamber music by Adrian Williams

Classical music news. Defining Our Field - Classical Music Daily's June 2021 Newsletter is a panel discussion led by John Dante Prevedini, and has just been published as a video podcast

Classical music news. Petrichor Competition and Save Lev's Violin - The submission deadline for a new international music competition will pass in a few days' time, and money is being raised to restore a precious violin

Classical music news - May 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Defining Our Field - John Dante Prevedini asks what is 'classical music' to us, why are we involved and what can we learn from our differences?

CD Spotlight. Delightful and Colourful - Geoff Pearce recommends a new Chandos recording of music by Henri Dutilleux. 'This music will delight all who hear it ...'

CD Spotlight. Truly Revelatory - Music by English composer Cipriani Potter, highly recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Howard Griffiths and his BBC National Orchestra of Wales players deliver electrifying performances full of rhythmic vitality and lyrical warmth ...'

CD Spotlight. An Exemplary Partnership - Geoff Pearce is impressed by Mozart Violin Sonatas transcribed and played by oboist Olivier Stankiewicz, accompanied by Jonathan Ware. '... the performances here are astounding.'

CD Spotlight. Technical Brilliance - James Willshire plays piano music by Cecil Coles and Gustav Holst, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'James Willshire is renowned for his virtuosity and intelligence of his keyboard mastery, and all this is on display in this recital.'

Classical music news. Streaming, Downloads and CDs - Classical Music Daily's May 2021 Newsletter has just been published as a video podcast

Classical music news - April 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. A Call from On High - Mike Wheeler listens to the Sinfonia Viva Brass Quintet

Ensemble. Enthralling Sound Colours - Malcolm Miller listens to young violinist Michael Foyle's recital of Beethoven, Brahms and Kreisler in London

CD Spotlight. High Romanticism - Paul Sarcich discovers the music of Robert Kahn. 'Ensemble Émigré have done fine service to Kahn ...'

CD Spotlight. A Strange Beauty - Symphonies by Daniel Jones, heard by Geoff Pearce. 'The BBC Welsh Symphony Orchestra delivers fine performances, as does the direction of its conductor, Bryden Thomson.'

Classical music news. Obituary - Simon Bainbridge (1952-2021)

Classical music news. Obituary - Jane Manning (1938-2021)

A Delius Cookbook - Mike Wheeler reports on unusual rumours from Grez-sur-Loing in France

Classical music news. Creativity, Innovation and Re-invention - Classical Music Daily's April 2021 Newsletter has just been published as a video podcast

CD Spotlight. Most Welcome - Gerald Fenech listens to French piano duets. 'Paul Lewis and Steven Osborne, two of Britain's foremost pianists, give matchless performances, and their virtuosic brilliance and unique sensitivity to the many nuances of these scores are an absolute joy to listen to.'

CD Spotlight. Performed at the Vauxhall Gardens - Symphonies by eighteenth century British composer John Abraham Fisher, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Michael Halász and his Czech team are in exuberant form and their pleasantly flowing performances bring out all the charm, wit and cheerfulness of this lovely music.'

Ensemble. Colourful and Inventive - A streamed performance of a wind arrangement of 'Pictures From an Exhibition' from Derby's Joseph Wright Gallery, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Change of Perspective - Mike Wheeler reviews Sinfonia Viva's streamed performance from Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, UK

Classical music news - March 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Buxton Festival - The Buxton International Festival (8-25 July 2021) announces its headline events

CD Spotlight. Benjamin Britten and James Joyce - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to two sets of English folk and other songs. '... very good listening ...'

Classical music news. Hang in there together - Classical Music Daily's March 2021 Newsletter has just been published as a video podcast

New Releases - Keith Bramich describes some changes this magazine is making to its reviewing process, and provides a snapshot of information provided by record labels, promoters and individual artists over the last month

CD Spotlight. An Absolute Delight - Volume three of Charles Koechlin's 'Les Chants de Nectaire' impresses Geoff Pearce. '... Nicola Woodward's playing is sumptuous, insightful and virtuosic when it needs to be, without ever being flashy.'

Classical music news - Steven Gerber - The English Symphony Orchestra presents a Steven Gerber portrait concert

CD Spotlight. On the March - Saint-Saëns wind music, enjoyed by Gerald Fenech. '... a truly glorious Saint-Saëns anthology wrapped in a different soundscape ...'

CD Spotlight. Engrossingly Moving - Works for clarinet and orchestra by Nielsen, Copland and MacMillan, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'A challenging programme, superbly presented and recorded.'

Classical music news. Singing in Cars? - Classical Music Daily's February 2021 Newsletter has just been published as a video podcast

Classical music news. New Conducting Competition - Only Stage Management Company in cooperation with Classics Management Budapest announces the first edition of the Only Stage International Conducting Competition

Ensemble. Arduous and Contrasting Passion - Bellini's 'I Puritani' at Teatro dell'Opera di Roma, recommended by Giuseppe Pennisi

Profile. A Philological Discovery - Giuseppe Pennisi writes about the seventeenth century Italian architect and global musician Carlo Rainaldi

Classical music news. Obituary - Elijah Moshinsky (1946-2021)

Classical music news. Jim Hutton - RLPO violinist celebrates forty years with the orchestra

CD Spotlight. Fresh and Imaginative - Gerald Fenech is impressed by John Rutter's sacred music, arranged by Luc Vertommen for brass band. 'Stirringly performed and conducted, this is music whose melodies and harmonies fit perfectly with the sound of a brass band ...'

Classical music news. Rattle to Munich - Simon Rattle is appointed Chief Conductor of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and extends with the London Symphony Orchestra

Classical music news. Obituary - John Georgiadis (1939-2021)

Classical music news - January 2021 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Ensemble. Melody and Mayhem - The English Symphony Orchestra's New Year's Eve offering, heard by Alice McVeigh

Classical music news. Upgrading to the Visual - Classical Music Daily's January 2021 Newsletter has just been published in a new video podcast format

Classical music news. Obituary - Ivry Gitlis (1922-2020)

Classical music news. Obituary - Fou Ts'ong (1934-2020)

CD Spotlight. Fine and Engaging Harpsichord Music - Gerald Fenech listens to works by Gottlieb Muffat and George Frideric Handel. 'Flóra Fábri's technique is solid as a rock, and her judgement of rubato and ornamentation is absolutely unblemished.'

CD Spotlight. Jubilant Performance - Christmas music from the Bristol Brass Consort, enjoyed by Keith Bramich. '... the arrangements here are varied and interesting, and the standard of performance quality is high.'

CD Spotlight. Sensitive and Thoughtful - More Christmas music from Clifton Cathedral, heard by Keith Bramich. '... this 1997 choir has a crisper sound than its 1987 vintage, and the ensemble is neater.'

CD Spotlight. A Real Adventure - Christmas in seventeenth century Mexico, conjured up by Siglo de Oro, Patrick Allies and friends, greatly impresses Keith Bramich. 'Siglo de Oro's performances here are superbly well-blended, joyously fresh and optimistic, seemingly flowing over and through the listener, sweeping them along in a stream of Mexican-tinged Renaissance splendour.'

Ensemble. Happy Birthday Ludwig - Julian Jacobson's BPSE Beethoven birthday recital, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

The Therapeutic Power of Music - Giuseppe Pennisi writes about Christmas in music for children in Italy

Ensemble. Exhilarating Final Moments - Opera North's live streaming of Beethoven's 'Fidelio' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Delightful Addition to Christmas - Bryn Terfel in Wales, the latest Met Stars live in concert, reviewed by Maria Nockin

Classical music news - December 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Pirates Ahoy! - A new anti-piracy software service is set to curb the lockdown spike in illegal music streaming

CD Spotlight. Firm Yuletide Favourites - Keith Bramich listens to a wide range of Christmas carols from Clifton Catholic Cathedral. 'Generally, everything is well-sung, tight and in-tune.'

CD Spotlight. A Tango Like You've Never Heard Before - Ona Jarmalavičiūtė listens to music by Kuljit Bhamra and Davide Giovannini. '... always colorful, never boring, even though at times overflowing with impressions.'

Classical music news. Personal, Political and Social Lockdown - An assortment of short news items, plus 'Seven Deadly Sins', Classical Music Daily's December 2020 Newsletter, just published in a new audio podcast format

Classical music news - November 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

CD Spotlight. Six Composers, Piano, Strings and Voice - Ona Jarmalavičiūtė listens to works by six female composers. '... performed profoundly ...'

CD Spotlight. Angels in Paris - Two sets of solo flute music by Charles Koechlin, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... Nicola Woodward's flute playing in the two sets that I have heard is sumptuous and varied, and one could not wish for a finer performance.'

Ensemble. Brecht and Weill's Final Collaboration - 'The Seven Deadly Sins' streamed live by Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. An Integral Part of Christmas - Carols from the SWR Vokal Ensemble, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... beautifully shaped and vocally refined and the voices come across clear and resonant.'

CD Spotlight. Quietly Ambiguous - Stephen Francis Vasta feels vaguely let down by Mami Shikimori and the Wihan Quartet's performances of Fauré and Franck. '... wonderfully committed and incisive playing.'

Classical music news. Edward Chilvers - Idiosyncratic pianist Edward Chilvers has devised a dice and mathematical chart system 'to follow nature not convention'

CD Spotlight. A Unique and Modern Dissonance - The complete piano music of Lennox Berkeley, heard by Patrick Maxwell. '... Douglas Stevens has given all of his works here a brilliant series of renditions ...'

Profile. From Live Performance to Live Streaming - Anett Fodor continues her series of interviews with some of our era's most interesting artists, and today she talks to British pianist Leon McCawley about some of the new challenges to artistic life

Ensemble. Nicely Varied - Peter Siepmann plays Johann Sebastian Bach, Maurice Duruflé and César Franck on the Compton organ at Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Love, Jealousy and Madness - Music inspired by Ariosto's poem 'Orlando Furioso', heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Filippo Mineccia sings with an exceptional timbre that is sensual and luminous, mixing virtuosity with sensitivity, while Pablo Garcia and his ensemble give sympathetic support with their insightful playing.'

Classical music news. November 2020 Newsletter - 'Time and Space', Classical Music Daily's November 2020 Newsletter, has just been published, along with an assortment of short news items

Ensemble. Big Statements - Laurence Caldecote plays works by Théodore-César Salomé, William Harris, Hendrik Andriessen, George Frideric Handel, Wallace Sabin, Herbert Howells, Leonard Butler and Jean Sibelius for the Derby Cathedral Autumn Organ Recitals, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Górecki's Strings - Giuseppe Pennisi compares two recent recordings of Górecki string quartets. '... Quatuor Molinari has a more melancholic approach than the Tippett Quartet.'

Ensemble. Bursts of Light - Mike Wheeler listens to Simon Russell's offering for the Derby Cathedral Autumn Organ Recital Series

CD Spotlight. Beethoven's Favourite Instrument - Peter Hill and Benjamin Frith play piano four hand music by the genius from Bonn, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... devotedly recorded, impressively executed, rewardingly researched.'

Ensemble. A Fine Balance - Mike Wheeler listens to Thomas Hawkes playing J S Bach, Percy Fletcher, Pietro Yon, Johannes Brahms, C S Lang and Louis Vierne on the Compton Organ at Derby Cathedral

Classical music news - Refugee Orchestra Project - New commissions are up and running in Lidiya Yankovskaya's project which demonstrates the importance of refugees to the United States cultural scene

Inventiveness and Determination - Mike Wheeler recommends full support for Opera North's autumn 2020 schedule

Classical music news - Schubert via Zoom - Sing and/or play Schubert's Mass in G online

CD Spotlight. Truly Riveting Stuff - Gerald Fenech explores a harmonia mundi disc depicting folly in various forms. 'This music is without doubt Stephanie d'Oustrac's territory, and she once again rises to the occasion with some superlative singing full of heartfelt passion, feverish emotion and dramatic intensity.'

Classical music news - The Story of Babar - On Friday 6 November 2020, Nimbus will release a CD single of Miriam Margolyes and Simon Callaghan performing Poulenc's setting of Cécile and Jean de Brunhoff's 'The Story of Babar, the Little Elephant'

CD Spotlight. Graceful and Charming - Gerald Fenech enjoys orchestral operatic music by Auber, recorded in the Czech Republic. 'An excellent compilation ... of some really bouncy music in good sound and annotations.'

CD Spotlight. Lightness and Joyousness - Geoff Pearce strongly recommends Josephine Knight's recordings of works for cello and orchestra by Robert Schumann and Alfredo Piatti. 'This is a beautifully presented disc, the orchestra and soloist work very well together, are in very fine fettle and the recordings could easily be put up there with the very best.'

Ensemble. Engagingly Vigorous - Mike Wheeler watches 'Nottingham Stories: Separation and Serenade', a series of videos created by Carmen Flores, director of Nottingham Chamber Music Festival

CD Spotlight. Imaginative Prowess - Gerald Fenech listens to piano music by the twentieth century English composer Herbert Howells. 'Deeply attractive music, sensitively played and sumptuously recorded.'

Classical music news - Virtual Cellobello Gala 2020 - Yo-Yo Ma, Mischa Maisky, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Alisa Weilerstein and Pieter Wispelwey will perform at the virtual CelloBello Gala on Sunday 11 October 2020

Classical music news - The English Music Festival - The Sussex-based festival plays its part in the return to music-making in the UK with an Autumn Festival on 9 and 20 October 2020

CD Spotlight. Magic and Mystery - Gerald Fenech listens to music for guitar and orchestra played by Junhong Kuang, Darrell Ang and the Czech Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra Pardubice. 'An attractive assortment of guitar music from both sides of the Atlantic, marvellously executed and recorded, with some well researched notes thrown in for good measure.'

Ensemble. It Pays to be Brave - George Frideric Handel's 'Rinaldo' in Florence, reviewed by Giuseppe Pennisi

CD Spotlight. Hallmarks of a Troubled Mindset - Patrick Maxwell listens critically to the Fitzwilliam String Quartet's Schubert. 'This CD holds within some extremely heart-rending, joyous and emotionally infused music, played by some wonderful individual players.'

CD Spotlight. Somewhat Disturbing - Thought-provoking music by Naomi Pinnock, heard by Geoff Pearce. 'The performances and attention to detail were impressive, which added to my enjoyment and comprehension of the music.'

CD Spotlight. A Fine Composer - Orchestral music by American composer Barbara Harbach, heard by Geoff Pearce. '... the London Philharmonic Orchestra is very fine and conductor David Angus obviously provides great insight into how this music should be performed.'

CD Spotlight. Delicate Textures - Songs for soprano and ensemble by Symon Clarke, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. '... the music is very well-written, thoughtful and beautifully performed.'

Classical music news. September 2020 Newsletter - 'A Quiet Logic', Classical Music Daily's September 2020 Newsletter, has just been published, along with an assortment of short news items

CD Spotlight. Highly Enjoyable - Gerald Fenech listens to film music played by Iain Sutherland and the Philharmonic Promenade Orchestra. '... brought to light with the utmost conviction.'

CD Spotlight. Hidden Secrets - Gerald Fenech listens to twentieth century British piano music played by Nathan Williamson. '... brought to light with the utmost conviction.'

CD Spotlight. A British Tint - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to two recent orchestral works by British composer Philip Sawyers. 'The BBC National Orchestra of Wales, conducted by Kenneth Woods, gives masterly performances of the two pieces.'

CD Spotlight. Approachable Music - The complete violin and piano music of Lutosławski and Penderecki, strongly recommended by Geoff Pearce. 'The performances by violinist Michael Foyle and pianist Maksim Štšura are responsive, intelligent and very polished and I, for one, found this disc a delight.'

CD Spotlight. An Unusual Debut - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to music by Ravel, James Francis Brown and Liana Alexandra, performed by Andrea Oliva and the Hemisphaeria Trio. '... an innovative program by a very promising ensemble.'

CD Spotlight. Well Worth Supporting - Geoff Pearce listens to the third symphony by Italian-born American composer John A Carollo. '... a distinct, assured musical voice which is not quite like anyone else I have heard.'

Classical music news - August 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Obituary - Julian Bream (1933-2020)

A Quiet Logic - Chang Sun writes about the American pianist Kit Armstrong

Ensemble. Music through Breath - Adrian Kelly talks to Christian Curnyn about Handel's 'Acis and Galatea' as part of the Buxton International Festival Digital 2020 Season, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Connolly Smorgasbord - A selection of performances by Sarah Connolly, as part of the Buxton International Festival Digital 2020 Season, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Where to now for the Arts in the UK? - Annie Lydford, Julian Glover and Emily Gottlieb in conversation with Michael Williams as part of the Buxton International Festival Digital 2020 Season, reported by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. August 2020 Newsletter - 'A Fresh Vision', Classical Music Daily's August 2020 Newsletter, has just been published, along with an assortment of short news items

Ensemble. Artificially Injected? - Mozart from Omer Meir Wellber and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra with 'a number of surprises' as part of the Buxton International Festival Digital 2020 Season, experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Especially Enjoyable Hard Work - Paul Kerryson and Wyn Davies explore the work of Stephen Sondheim and 'A Little Night Music', in conversation with Michael Williams, as part of the Buxton International Festival Digital 2020 Season, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Perspectives: Words and Music - Mike Wheeler watches Buxton Festival's film 'Kate Whitley and Laura Attridge in conversation with Michael Williams', discussing the creation of the opera/oratorio 'Our Future, In Your Hands'

CD Spotlight. A Wide Emotional Spectrum - Alexandra Matvievskaya plays Fauré piano music, appreciated by Patrick Maxwell. '... played with a precise and enjoyable dexterity and with admirable clarity; the collection as a whole deserves to be celebrated.'

Ensemble. Each Performance is a Unique Event - Mike Wheeler watches the film 'Adrian Kelly and Jacopo Spirei - La donna del lago and the role of the stage director' from the Buxton Festival's online offering

CD Spotlight. Enticing Orchestration - Gerald Fenech listens to tone poems by César Franck performed by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and conductor Jean-Luc Tingaud. 'This fine issue also includes three overtures ...'

Classical music news - July 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news. Obituary - Ida Haendel (1928-2020)

CD Spotlight. Full of Joy - Patrick Maxwell celebrates Peter Donohoe's Mozart Piano Sonatas. '... played with a precise and enjoyable dexterity and with admirable clarity; the collection as a whole deserves to be celebrated.'

Ensemble. An Opera Staging Inside-out - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Lynne Marsh's film 'Tragedy', which provides an altered experience of Opera North's production of Verdi's 'La traviata'

Classical music news. July 2020 Newsletter - 'A Miracle in Ravenna', Classical Music Daily's July 2020 Newsletter, has just been published, along with an assortment of short news items

CD Spotlight. Haydn at his Light-hearted Best - Haydn Cello Concertos, heartily recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... the brilliant and sparkling playing of Natalie Clein brings out all the beauty of this music.'

Ensemble. Unlocking Creative Potential - Malcolm Miller listens to 'Lockdown Suite' by Malcolm Singer

Classical music news - Donatella Flick Conducting Competition - The deadline for the 2021 Donatella Flick Conducting Competition has been extended until 13 August 2020

Classical music news. The Prison - The first recording of Ethel Smyth's 1930 work 'The Prison' is to be released on Chandos Records

Classical music news - June 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

CD Spotlight. An Impressive Undertaking - Simon Rattle conducts Wagner's 'Die Walküre', heard by Giuseppe Pennisi. 'The singing and the orchestra raise this performance above the ordinary.'

Classical music news. June 2020 Newsletter - 'The Art of Thinking', Classical Music Daily's June 2020 Newsletter, has just been published, along with an assortment of short news items

CD Spotlight. Distinctly Continental - Patrick Maxwell listens to Brahms from Lars Vogt and the Royal Northern Sinfonia. '... carried off with impressive dexterity by the players ...'

Profile. Connecting the Natural and Human Worlds - Ona Jarmalavičiūtė talks to the Welsh composer Hilary Tann

Classical music news. Obituary - John Poole (1934-2020)

CD Spotlight. Youthful Influences - Early string quartets by William Alwyn, heard by Patrick Maxwell. '... carried off with impressive dexterity by the players ...'

CD Spotlight. Love's Trials and Rewards - Gustav Holst's 'The Cloud Messenger', recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'This colourful chamber version by Joseph Fort lends the more tender passages a new intimacy and clarity, while retaining much of the force of the original and preparing the foundations for a new life in performance.'

Ensemble. Fresh and Energetic Performances - Malcolm Miller listens to Beethoven from Marios Papadopoulos and the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra

CD Spotlight. An Unmissable Issue - Gerald Fenech explores the music of Marc'Antonio Ingegneri. 'The repetition of phrases in the musical exchange between the two choirs becomes almost hypnotic for the listener, and one feels totally engrossed in the Eucharistic mystery.'

Classical music news - May 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world has lost this month

Classical music news - April 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world lost last month

Classical music news - Five Thoughts on Everything - Bright Shiny Things releases a recording of music by Dutch composer Jobina Tinnemans

CD Spotlight. Unpredictable and Beautiful - Gerald Fenech admires volume 4 of Malcolm Martineau's 'Decades - A Century of Song'. 'The programme is mellifluously performed and all the songs give immense pleasure. Martineau's singers have fresh, youthful voices and they are consistently caring for each word in the texts, while his own playing is sensitive and coloured throughout.'

CD Spotlight. A Splendid Performance - Rachel Mahon plays Canadian organ music, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'A hugely enjoyable album, well worth hearing ...'

Ensemble. Terrific Energy - Mike Wheeler reviews a recording of Opera North's recent production of Kurt Weill's 'Street Scene'

CD Spotlight. Highly Effective - Gerald Fenech listens to miniatures by William Mathias. '... splendid and sweetly unaffected performances ...'

Classical music news - March 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world lost last month

CD Spotlight. Effervescent Beauty - Music by Pärt, Vasks and MacMillan, sung by the Choir of Clare College, Cambridge, impressing Patrick Maxwell. 'This recording from the Choir of Clare College Cambridge under the direction of Graham Ross cements their position as one of the finest church ensembles in the country ...'

Classical music news. Obituary - Gerard Schurmann (1924-2020)

Ensemble. A More Intimate Approach - Mike Wheeler listens to Suppé, Dvořák and Holst at Derby Concert Orchestra's seventieth anniversary concert

CD Spotlight. Opposite Religious Poles - Secret Catholic music by William Byrd impresses Gerald Fenech. 'Absolute joy from beginning to end.'

CD Spotlight. Immediately Engaging - Raphael Wallfisch plays cello concertos by Mieczysław Weinberg, recommended unreservedly by Geoff Pearce. 'This magnificent disc showcases the work of a composer who is still relatively under-represented in recording catalogues and on the concert platform.'

Ensemble. Familiar Pieces Heard Afresh - Mike Wheeler has some thoughtful comments on a performance by Tasmin Little, Duncan Riddell, Thierry Fischer and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

CD Spotlight. Serious and Entertaining - Ona Jarmalavičiūtė listens to choral music by William Mathias. '... each moment ... truly captivates and draws further.'

Ensemble. A Veritable Cat's Cradle - Mike Wheeler listens to Robert and Clara Schumann, Chopin, Grieg and Cheryl Frances-Hoad, played by British pianist Tom Poster

Ensemble. Sheer Contrast - Prokofiev and Beethoven symphonies from the Hallé Orchestra and Mark Elder, impressing Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. The Finest Musical Superglue - Mike Wheeler witnesses 'Energy', Sinfonia Viva's latest schools project

CD Spotlight. Masterly Setting - Gerald Fenech listens to choral music by Kenneth Leighton. 'Performances are of a consistently high level throughout and blessed with a beautifully recorded sound.'

Classical music news - February 2020 Obituaries - Our summary of those the classical music world lost last month

CD Spotlight. A Delight - Song cycles by Mahler, Berg and Rhian Samuel, sung by Ruby Hughes with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, impress Geoff Pearce. 'Right from the start, she shows a more flexible and somewhat lighter voice, but a very good understanding of the lyrics, and she colours her voice beautifully to express this.'

Photographer's Insight - Michael Whitefoot, Photographer at the Three Choirs Festival, explains some of the tricks and pitfalls of covering a major UK festival

Classical music news. The Elgar Festival - An annual celebration of the great British composer takes place in Worcester and Malvern, UK, during May

Ensemble. Relaxed and Exuberant - Mike Wheeler listens to Cavendish Winds playing Mozart, Danzi, Debussy, Arnold, Vaughan Williams, Holst, Bozza, Ligeti and Gershwin

Ensemble. Undeniably Exciting - Mike Wheeler listens to Bizet, Ravel, Debussy, Anna Thorvaldsdottir, Sibelius and Walton from Jean-Efflam Bavouzet, Yan Pascal Tortelier and the Iceland Symphony Orchestra

Ensemble. In the French Tradition - Mike Wheeler listens to Fauré, Lili Boulanger, Abdelmoula and Debussy from Swiss pianist Jean-Sélim Abdelmoula

CD Spotlight. Dazzling Virtuosity - Mendelssohn concertos from the Stankov Ensemble and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, highly recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Exceptionally beautiful music, sparklingly performed, sumptuously recorded, with a very insightful essay thrown in for good measure.'

Classical music news. Stjepan Hauser - The Croatian cellist performs with orchestra at Egypt's Soma Bay in April 2020

CD Spotlight. A Gorgeous Tribute - Piano music by Ireland and Tchaikovsky impresses Gerald Fenech. '... a fascinating series of contrasts within a framework of spectacular effects.'

CD Spotlight. Exquisite Precision - Early Beethoven from Boris Giltburg, Vasily Petrenko and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Patrick Maxwell. '... the orchestra and the piano are often interwoven in their lines, and the conversational phrases built up a tension that is perfectly managed by Giltburg.'

Ensemble. Youthful Maturity - Mike Wheeler listens to Schubert and Rachmaninov from Lauren Zhang

Ensemble. Wagner's Revenge - Giuseppe Pennisi is puzzled by a political and contemporary reading of 'Parsifal'

Ensemble. Vaughan Williams and Jazz? - Mike Wheeler listens to a talk from Stephen Johnson, and to two works by Vaughan Williams played by John Wilson and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra

Ensemble. A Remarkable Partnership - Mike Wheeler listens to music for violin and piano by Mozart, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Wieniawski/Gounod and Debussy/Heifetz from Emmanuel Bach and Jennifer Hughes

Classical music news. Obituary - Barry Tuckwell (1931-2020)

Ensemble. Youthful Rebellion - Mike Wheeler is impressed by the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain

CD Spotlight. Fresh and Engaging - Villa-Lobos, Bax and Bolcom from Kerry Duwors and Futaba Niekawa, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... the sheer musicianship, combined with flawless technique and imaginative programming, never fails to impress me.'

Ensemble. Variegated Colours - Alexander Binns plays Messiaen, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Jewel in the Scottish Musical Crown - Ona Jarmalavičiūtė is impressed by Mr McFall's Chamber. '... a vivid kaleidoscope of impromptu freely expressed creativity.'

CD Spotlight. A Distinctive Scottish Flavour - Geoff Pearce listens to chamber music and songs by Judith Weir. '... a fantastic disc ...'

CD Spotlight. The Harpsichord's Newest Reincarnation - Ona Jarmalavičiūtė listens to twentieth century harpsichord concertos. 'Not many harpsichord players are as multifaceted and expressive as Jory Vinikour when interpreting modern music.'

120 Years Ago - A snapshot of the musical world at the turn of the twentieth century, by George Colerick

Ensemble. A Wide Expressive Range - Mike Wheeler listens to piano duets from Dina Duisen and Martin James Bartlett

Ensemble. Much to Enjoy - Christmas with the Sitwell Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. 'Messiah' Overload? - Handel from Derby Bach Choir, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Mischievous Silences - Lithuanian pianist Ugnius Pauliukonis plays Haydn, Chopin and Debussy, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Tradition Still Alive - Gerald Fenech listens to Advent carols from King's College London. 'A hugely beautiful issue, full of inspiring singing and emotional joy, performed with fine control, impressive depth of tone and a dynamic range that commands one's admiration from start to finish.'

Ensemble. Trade Secrets - Mike Wheeler listens to guitarist Craig Ogden and friends

Ensemble. Varied in Tone and Style - Mike Wheeler listens to twentieth-century British music played by Derby Concert Orchestra

Light and Shade - George Colerick writes about idealised beauty alongside the grotesque in the 1951 film 'The Tales of Hoffmann'

Ensemble. Nicely Shaped - Mike Wheeler listens to Duruflé and Ola Gjeilo from Derby Choral Union and its new musical director Paul Provost

Ensemble. Utterly Stylish - Mike Wheeler listens to Opera North's 'Giulio Cesare'

Ensemble. Special Moments - Adam J Sacks provides a Hong Kong snapshot on the classical music world

Ensemble. Finely Balanced - Mozart, Shostakovich and Beethoven, played by the Artesian String Quartet, and heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. As Fresh As Ever - Mike Wheeler takes stock of Benjamin Britten's 1948 cantata 'St Nicholas'

Classical music news. Obituary - Colin Mawby (1936-2019)

Classical music news. Obituary - Stephen Cleobury (1948-2019)

Ensemble. Particularly Irresistible - Music by Smetana, Martinů and Dvořák from Laura van der Heijden, Pietari Inkinen and the Prague Symphony Orchestra impresses Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Christmas Carols with Libera - South London boys' choir Libera releases its Christmas album

CD Spotlight. Great Character - Lucas Ball listens to the latest volume in James Brawn's Beethoven series. '... the sort of technical control and agility that you get from many world class artists.'

Alert Playing - Anna Tsybuleva plays C P E Bach, Beethoven and Schubert, impressing Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Sparkingly Virtuosic - Kim Cook plays music for cello and orchestra by Elgar, Schumann, Dvořák and Strauss, recommended by Geoff Pearce. 'The soloist, when she enters, is authoritative, warm and very sure footed, and reveals what a remarkable artist she is.'

Ensemble. Contemporary Resonances - Opera North's production of Martinů's 'Greek Passion', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. The Great Composers - Five films to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Beethoven's birth, in cinemas from December 2019

Ensemble. Well-chosen Contrasts - Sinfonia Viva is joined by Nottingham Harmonic Choir and vocal soloists for an evening of Sibelius, Mozart, Vasks and Salonen, impressing Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Deeply Humane - Patrick Maxwell listens to music by John Dowland. '... the exquisite word-painting comes through brilliantly ...'

Classical music news. A Tour of Great Britain - Orchestre National de Lille is the only French orchestra planning to tour the UK in 2020

CD Spotlight. A Glittering Compilation - Spanish Christmas music from Stile Antico impresses Gerald Fenech. 'Flawless performances by Stile Antico, added to some impressive sonics and eye-catching presentation ...'

CD Spotlight. Handel and the Roman Baroque School - Giuseppe Pennisi listens to Lorenzo Tozzi's Romabarocca Ensemble. '... a precious CD from which to learn little known aspects of baroque music ...'

Ensemble. Satisfyingly Unexpected - Mike Wheeler listens to Grieg, Clara Schumann, Kodály and Mozart from Frank Zielhorst and Sinfonia Viva

Ensemble. Extra Vibrancy - Mike Wheeler listens to Tchaikovsky and Fauré from the Sitwell Singers

Ensemble. He'll Be Back - Fabien Gabel conducts the Hallé Orchestra, impressing Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Obituary - Raymond Leppard (1927-2019)

Piquant Ensemble. Contrasts - A cello and violin recital by Katherine Jenkinson and Ning Kam, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Something of Rare Beauty - Twentieth century oboe sonatas by York Bowen, Petr Eben, Henri Dutilleux, Eugène Bozza, Francis Poulenc and Camille Saint-Saëns, heard by Geoff Pearce. 'What a fantastic and inspiring team Alex Klein and Phillip Bush make.'

Astonishing Control - Mike Wheeler experiences a completely transfixed audience at Chinese-born pianist Ji Liu's recital of music by Stephen Hough, Debussy, Ji Liu, Beethoven, York Bowen and Stravinsky

Ensemble. A Vivid Sense of Theatricality - Mike Wheeler listens to Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov and Khachaturian from Peter Donohoe and the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Yuri Simonov

CD Spotlight. Impressive and Delightful - Geoff Pearce listens to Martin Setchell playing the Christchurch Town Hall Rieger organ in New Zealand. '... a wide range of organ music that I am sure will delight lovers of fine organ playing.'

Classical music news. Obituary - Martin Wesley-Smith (1945-2019)

CD Spotlight. A Stupendous Disc - Roderic Dunnett listens to countertenor duets by Purcell and Blow. 'The music is sensationally beautiful and touching - and so are the performances.'

Classical music news. The Prometheus Revolution - Composer Keith Burstein showcases his subversive opera about revolution alongside the UK Labour Party's annual conference

Ensemble. Blaringly Unusual - Maria Nockin listens to Pittance Chamber Music's opening concert

Classical music news. Learn to Conduct in London - Learn to conduct orchestras on a one-year course based in London

A Subtle Approach - Mike Wheeler listens to organ music by Leighton, Franck, J S Bach and Henri Mulet, played by Edward Turner at Derby Cathedral

Classical music news. Oxford Lieder Festival 2019 - Tales of Beyond - Magic, Myths and Mortals

Ensemble. Packed With Good Things - Roderic Dunnett reports from the 2019 Three Choirs Festival in Gloucester

All Reeds Blazing - Roger Sayer at the Derby Cathedral organ console impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. German Majesty - Patrick Maxwell listens to Bach and Bruckner from Michael Schönheit, Andris Nelsons and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig

CD Spotlight. Triumphant Splendour - Gerald Fenech commends the reissue of Roger Norrington's recording of Elgar's Symphony No 1 with the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra. '... Norrington conveys the sweep of the score spontaneously in one breath and takes his players on a headlong ride to the finish which is simply spinetingling.'

Vividly Projected - Mike Wheeler listens to J S Bach, Gustav Holst, George Dyson, David Bednall, Edward Bairstow, César Franck, Purcell Mansfield, Judith Weir and Marcel Dupré, played by organist Sachin Gunga

Ensemble. In Many Respects a Success - Longborough Festival Opera's wacky production of Cavalli's 'La Calisto', reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Classical music news. Obituary - Barrington Pheloung (1954-2019)

CD Spotlight. Full of Surprises - Michael Hofstetter's recording of Weber's 'Oberon', recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Recommended ... if only for the magical sound world created by Hofstetter.'

Bright and Clear - Alexander Binns plays organ music by Alfred Hollins, Harrison Oxley, Reginald Goss-Custard, Maurice Duruflé, Joseph Bonnet and César Franck, heard by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Adrian Williams - The English Symphony Orchestra announces Adrian Williams as its John McCabe Composer-in-Association for 2019/20

Ensemble. Magnificent Symphonies - Beethoven, Shostakovich and Musorgsky from Yannick Nézet-Séguin and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra impress Patrick Maxwell

Ensemble. Magisterial Creativity - Patrick Maxwell visits London to hear Haydn's 'The Creation' at the BBC Proms

Ensemble. Breathless Excitement - In the last of his reports from the 2019 Buxton Festival, Mike Wheeler listens to music by Jean-Féry Rebel, Telemann, Marco Ucellini, J S Bach, and an improvisation on 'La Folìa', played by Improviso

CD Spotlight. Bold Simplicity - Patrick Maxwell listens to music from Wadham College Chapel, Oxford. 'The choral sound is well produced, if at times lacking in cohesion, and the interpretations at the hands of Katharine Pardee are well handled.'

Ensemble. Fierce Commitment - Gillian Moore talks about her book 'The Rite of Spring. The Music of Modernity' and then Philip Moore and Hugh Watkins play Stravinsky's 'Le Sacre du printemps', preceded by John Adams' 'Hallelujah Junction', all reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Irresistible Challenge - Mike Wheeler listens to an operatic rarity - 'Lucio Papirio Dittatore' by Antonio Caldara

Ensemble. Ballet of Sheep - Opera Della Luna's 'Orpheus in the Underworld' at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Local Heroine/Antiheroine - Mike Wheeler experiences the pasticcio 'Georgiana' at the Buxton Festival

Ensemble. Vintage Buxton - Mike Wheeler reports on the current production of 'Eugene Onegin'

Ensemble. A Neat Idea - A song recital by James Gaughan and David Hammond, heard by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Argument for Strings - British artist Dan Michaelson's 'first work for string quartet' also contains parts for piano and bell

Ensemble. Simply Exhilarating - Music for violin and piano by César Franck and Camille Saint-Saëns from Hungarian duo Boglárka György and Brigitta Sveda impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Joyful Combinations - Patrick Maxwell listens to Britten, McDowall, Horovitz and James Bassi, performed by Janet Lincé and The New Choir

Ensemble. 'Orlando' Fights World War II In San Francisco - James Sohre describes an evening of considerable Handelian beauty

Sacred and Secular - Rossini's 'Petite Messe Solennelle' from Derby Bach Choir, Richard Roddis and friends, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Pleasingly Eclectic - Mike Wheeler listens to James Curnow, J S Bach, Andrew Downes, Simon Lesley, Randy Newman, Lennon and McCartney, and Irving Berlin from Curzon Brass

A Charming Touch - Mike Wheeler listens to Beethoven, Brahms, Granados and Mompou, played by Ingrid Cusidó

Fun and Frolics - Mozart, Beethoven, Grieg and Mahler from Benjamin Grosvenor, the Hallé Orchestra and Gergely Madaras, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Fine Start - American recordings of Elgar, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... considering today's technological excellence, this issue is strictly for collectors with a nostalgia for the past.'

Microtonal Trills and Tremolos - Luca Luciano pushes the boundaries of clarinet playing, impressing Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Seldom Recorded - Music for horn and piano, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... two superb musicians enjoying themselves in music which is not well-known ...'

Ensemble. From the Poignant to the Zany - Russian-born musicians Yulia Northridge and Ekaterina Shetliffe, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Novel Sounds and Experimentation - Havergal Brian's Symphonies Nos 7 and 16, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Alexander Walker and his Russian forces give passionately committed performances, highly idiomatic and bursting with excitement.'

Profile. Music Speaks for Itself - An interview with the composer Paul Carr, by Anett Fodor

CD Spotlight. Crossing Boundaries - Chamber music by Nigel Osborne, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... beguiling and vivid performances ...'

Ensemble. Nothing but Praise - Opera North's concert-staged 'Aida', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sheer Exuberant Fun - J S Bach's four orchestral suites played by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment thoroughly impress Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Sheer Musicianship - Geoff Pearce listens to music for viola, played by Matthew Lipman. '... a delight for the listener and aficionados of the viola.'

Ensemble. An Impressive Joint Local Debut - Alex Binns and Dora Chatzigeorgiou step in with a Derby Cathedral recital, following a sudden last-minute cancellation, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Cunningly Put Together - Debussy, Bartók and Stravinsky from Patricia Kopatchinskaja, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, plus music by Kate Whitley and Eric Satie, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Triumph - Alice McVeigh was at Covent Garden for the last performance of Gounod's 'Faust'

Classical music news. Christopher Gabbitas Appointment - Former King's Singers member Christopher Gabbitas is to become Phoenix Chorale's next Artistic Director

CD Spotlight. An Invaluable Addition - Kathleen Ferrier sings the Bach Magnificat, impressing Gerald Fenech. 'A masterstroke by SOMM and an invaluable addition to the Ferrier discography that will grace any music collection.'

Ensemble. Bravado and Introspection - Mike Wheeler listens to Rachmaninov and Shostakovich from Daniel Kharitonov, Vladimir Ashkenazy and the Philharmonia Orchestra

Ensemble. Exemplary Clarity - Haydn, Glass and Beethoven from the Marmen Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Venus Unwrapped - Keith Bramich is impressed by Noriko Ogawa, Kenneth Woods and the strings of the English Symphony Orchestra

Ensemble. Slavic Melancholy - Chris Swann, the strings of Sinfonia Viva and Frank Zielhorst perform Mozart, Arensky, Finzi and Tchaikovsky in a new performance space, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fully Engaged - Richard Dacey steps down from his post as musical director of Derby Choral Union with a concert of Mozart, Vivaldi and Beethoven, heard by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Obituary - Heather Harper (1930-2019)

Ensemble. A Work of Great Integrity - Mike Wheeler listens to 'Lauda Creatoris' by Richard Roddis, plus choral music by Handel, Parry, André Caplet, Alessandro Costantini, Nancy Telfer and Dan Miller

CD Spotlight. Brilliantly Executed - John Kitchen plays British Light Music by Arthur Sullivan and Michael Thomson, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'A gem of a disc full of wit, warmth and colour ...'

CD Spotlight. A Thrilling Musical Discovery - Violin Concertos by Giovanni Giornovich, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Bojan Čičić has this repertoire in his blood, and this shows in performances of exhilarating beauty.'

Book review. A Multi-art Extravaganza - Ron Bierman reads Gillian Moore's 'The Rite of Spring, the Music of Modernity'

Ensemble. Near-miraculous - Bach, Copland, Gibbons, Ramsey, Tomkins, Walton, Weelkes and Whitacre from Richard Roddis and the Derwent Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Le Poisson Magique - Resonus issues John McCabe's complete organ music on CD to mark the composer's eightieth birthday year

Ensemble. A Powerful Experience - Rimsky-Korsakov and Messiaen from Ensemble Mirage, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Deeply Emotional - Alice McVeigh listens to music by the late John Joubert. 'William Boughton conducts with great sensitivity, and the orchestra excels.'

Ensemble. Roads of Genius - Mike Wheeler listens to Bohuslav Martinů's Fourth Symphony

Opera Phantoms - George Colerick takes a light-hearted look at Ken Hill's influence on the old tale of 'The Phantom of the Opera'

Ensemble. Aptly Hallucinatory - Janáček's 'Katya Kabanová' from Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Obituary - Peter Hurford (1930-2019)

Classical music news. Obituary - Geoff Harvey (1935-2019)

Classical music news. Obituary - Victor Hochhauser (1923-2019)

Ensemble. An Ambitious Conceit - Mike Wheeler is impressed by James Brining's production of Mozart's 'The Magic Flute'

CD Spotlight. A Beacon of God's Love - Gabriel Jackson's Passion impresses Gerald Fenech. 'Emotionally charged performances, superb sound quality and highly informative annotations complete a revelatory disc that is wholly in tune with the present Lenten season.'

Vital Work - Margaret Fingerhut's UK piano recital tour raising awareness of the needs of refugees, recommended by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Very Interesting and Original - Geoff Pearce listens to chamber music by John McCabe and David Ellis. '... superb performances delivered by the Camerata Ensemble.'

Ensemble. A Fresh Pair of Ears - Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov and Sibelius from Vasily Petrenko and the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Satisfyingly Mysterious - Mike Wheeler listens to Lyadov, Stravinsky and Rachmaninov from Derby Concert Orchestra

Classical music news. Alberto Nepomuceno - Announcements of new releases from Naxos, Divine Art, SOMM Recordings and Warner Classics

Ensemble. Rhythms and Algorithms - Mike Wheeler was at Sinfonia Viva's latest schools project

Profile. A Forgotten Composer in England - Richard Meszto writes about Hungarian-born Emanuel Moór

CD Spotlight. A Compelling New Reading - Anett Fodor is impressed by Daniel Harding and the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra's recent recording of Mahler's Fifth Symphony. 'Daniel Harding awakens and keeps the listener's curiosity captive, demanding thorough attention for his compelling interpretation.'

Ensemble. Imaginative Freshness - Mike Wheeler listens to Beethoven, Mozart and Rachmaninov from Sasha Grynyuk

Classical music news. Obituary - André Previn (1929-2019)

Classical music news. February 2019 Classical Music Obituaries - A look at some of the figures who have passed away during February 2019

Classical music news. January 2019 Classical Music Obituaries - A look at some of the figures who passed away during January 2019

Ensemble. All About Collaboration - Music by Steve Reich impresses Mike Wheeler

Classical music news. Rosalie Coopman - Brixworth Music Festival announces the winner of its International Competition for Women Composers

Ensemble. Pin-point Delicacy and Precision - Mike Wheeler is impressed by the Eblana String Trio

A Perfect Fool - George Colerick discusses Gustav Holst and his Richard Wagner parody

Ensemble. High Jinks - Roderic Dunnett enjoys Opera Warwick's production of Offenbach's 'La vie Parisienne'

Ensemble. Sprightly, Polished and Gleaming - Mike Wheeler listens to Mozart, Malcolm Arnold and Lennox Berkeley from Alec Frank-Gemmill and Sinfonia Viva, conducted by Frank Zielhorst

Ensemble. An Anthem to Innocence - Giuseppe Pennisi experiences the Italian version of Benjamin Britten's 'The Little Sweep'

Classical music news. Brahms and Schumann - András Schiff joins the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment for a series of concerts

Ensemble. Deceptively Undemonstrative - Mike Wheeler listens to Canadian/Romanian pianist Teo Gheorghiu

CD Spotlight. Gorgeously Sung - Choral music by Richard Allain, heard by Roderic Dunnett. 'The music is undoubtedly beautiful, without exception.'

Classical music news. Mahler Education - Joy Lisney conducts a special performance of Mahler's Ninth Symphony

CD Spotlight. Idiomatically Revealing - Oxana Shevchenko plays Stravinsky for solo piano, heard by Roderic Dunnett. '... finely and deftly played.'

Ensemble. Expressive Progression - Mike Wheeler enjoys a concert by Stephen Hough, Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra

CD Spotlight. Dazzling Symphonies - Symphonies by Ruth Gipps, recommended by Roderic Dunnett. 'It conveys as much energy and artistry and expressiveness today as it did the day it was written.'

Ensemble. An Endurance Test - Rossini, Monti, J S Bach, Mozart, Handel, Vaughan Williams and Dave Maslanka from the Syzygy Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Splendid Compendium - Iberian concertos and sonatas, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... finely and eloquently played by an ensemble that is passionately committed to creating a sound world that never ages.'

Ensemble. Collective Talent - Mike Wheeler marvels at The National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain

CD Spotlight. A Deep Understanding - John McCabe's 'lost' Australian recording, commended by Geoff Pearce. 'The music is unfamiliar, but interesting, full of surprises and variety, and the fine piano playing is insightful and committed.'

CD Spotlight. Rich and Varied - Songs by Robin Holloway, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Performances are full of expressive variety and sensitivity, complementing the composer's thoughts with undiluted commitment.'

Amazingly Kind - Keith Bramich marks the passing of South African-born composer John Joubert, who died on 7 January

Profile. No Vulgar Commercialiser - George Colerick tells the story of Louis Jullien, a French impressario, composer and conductor famous in London in the nineteenth century

Profile. A Gold Mine - Roderic Dunnett visits Birmingham to talk to John Joubert

Ensemble. Bouncy Vitality - The Sitwell Singers' Christmas concert, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Nicely Alert - Sarah Beth Briggs and James Lisney in Nottingham, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Insane Buffoonery - George Colerick investigates the musicals of Florimond Hervé, a man of many parts

Ensemble. Punchy Treatment - Derby Choral Union at Christmas, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Zesty Singing - Edward Turner conducts Handel's 'Messiah' at Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Unique Snapshot - French music for Christmas, sung in Oxford by a Cambridge choir, heard by Keith Bramich. '... Christmas music, much of it well-known in Britain, sung in French in various original and unusual versions ...'

Ensemble. Collective Flair - Haydn, Bartók and Dvorák from the Zelkova Quartet impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Not Quite Christmas - Mike Wheeler listens to the Derby Concert Orchestra

Ensemble. Properly Exultant - Bach's 'Christmas Oratorio' in Derby Cathedral, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Something Really Special - Bliss, Elgar and Vaughan Williams from Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Elizabeth Watts, Martyn Brabbins and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Music in Kentish Town - Endre Anaru looks forward to an orchestral concert in London later this week featuring the first performance of a new Canadian violin concerto

Ensemble. The Homely and the Cosmic - Two concerts from Nicholas Kok and Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Big-boned Works - Mike Wheeler listens to Hong Kong-born pianist Rachel Cheung playing Franck, Schumann and Liszt

Ensemble. Dignity and Restraint - Derby Choral Union's Armistice centenary concert, heard by Mike Wheeler

A Conscious Tribute - Mike Wheeler praises the remarkably find muscianship of pianist Dominic Degavino

Ensemble. Occupational Hazards - Opera North's staging of Franz Lehár's 'The Merry Widow', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Beautifully Judged - Brahms, Beethoven and Nikolay Kapustin from Julian Clef, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Diction and Projection - A performance by The Hills Singers impresses Keith Bramich

CD Spotlight. Pianistic Acrobatics - Louis Lortie's Saint-Saëns thrills Anett Fodor. 'Louis Lortie's wonderfully led singing melodic lines, outstanding technique, musicality and cooperation with the conductor as well as the outstanding orchestral playing demand one's full attention.'

Ensemble. Colour and Energy - An uppity chicken, a cuckoo and much more ... Stravinsky, J S Bach, Respighi and Mendelssohn from Maddy Aldis-Evans, Benedict Holland, Frank Zielhorst and Sinfonia Viva impress Mike Wheeler

Profile. The Comic / Serious Mix - Ron Bierman talks to British opera director Stephen Lawless, whose 'Marriage of Figaro' is currently at San Diego Opera

Ensemble. A Rare Outing - Poulenc, Vaughan Williams and Beethoven from the Derby Concert Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Delightful Surprise - Beethoven, Turina and Schumann from the Aquinas Trio impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Upgrade - Sinfonia Viva's string section, directed by Benedict Holland, begins the Derby Folk Festival, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Very Joyous Disc - Brahms arranged by Kenneth Woods impresses Alice McVeigh. '... this is an excellent performance representing a useful, joyful and even inspired addition to the orchestral repertoire.'

CD Spotlight. Music Archaeology - Music played on the 'Aulos', heard by Gerald Fenech. '... this unique and exciting project is now at its consummation ...'

Ensemble. Musically Outstanding - Wagner's 'Das Rheingold' in dress rehearsal at Covent Garden impresses Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Stellar Performances - Handel Cantatas, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... music of the utmost beauty, full of emotional outpourings that cover the whole spectrum of the human condition ...'

Ensemble. A Musical and Social Bonanza - Roderic Dunnett continues his in-depth review of this year's Three Choirs Festival in Hereford

In At The Deep End - Michael Haynes' organ recital at Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Border Crossings - Mike Wheeler listens to Andy von Oppenkowski's recital as part of the Derby Cathedral organ series

CD Spotlight. Coherent and Interesting - Music for string quartet by Lyell Cresswell interests Geoff Pearce. 'The Red Note Ensemble, a Scottish group specialising in new music, gives taut, precise performances, played with conviction.'

Ensemble. A Natural Assurance - Monteverdi and Elgar from the Three Choirs Festival at Hereford impress Roderic Dunnett

Mozart Changes - Carleton Etherington's organ recital at Derby Cathedral, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Absolute Triumph - Roderic Dunnett listens enraptured to Ireland and Smyth at the opening night of the 2018 Three Choirs Festival

Ensemble. A New Venture - Mike Wheeler listens to Brahms, Elgar, Haydn, Parry, Philip Moore, Purcell, Rutter, Stanford and Vivaldi from Derby Cathedral Choir

Ensemble. Cheeky Formula - Nicolò Isouard's 'Cendrillon' at Bampton Classical Opera, heard by Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight. Inspiring Stuff - Hieronymus Praetorius and colleagues, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Sigla de Oro give some absolutely brilliant performances ...'

CD Spotlight. Versatility and Imagination - Choral music by Richard Rodney Bennett, appreciated by Gerald Fenech. 'Paul Spicer and his choristers give eloquent performances, full of precise details and expressive energy, and in their hands Bennett's imaginative prowess is brought to life with intense clarity.'

Crossing Borders - Mike Wheeler listens to Hugh Morris at Derby Cathedral, beginning this year's summer organ recital series

Ensemble. Totally Individual - The first performance of David Sawer's opera 'The Skating Rink' impresses Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. An Opera of Two Halves - Donizetti's 'L'ange de Nisida' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Genuine Insights - Lizzie Ball and Morgan Szymanski at the Buxton Festival impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Plus and Minus - Songs and arias from Jennifer Davis and Caroline Dowdle at the Buxton Festival, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Distinct Possibilities - Mike Wheeler listens to Haydn and Bach from the Emanon Ensemble in Derby Cathedral

Ensemble. 'Opéra comique' meets 'Easy Rider' - Mike Wheeler reports from Buxton on Opera Della Luna's 'The Daughter of the Regiment'

Plangent and Nimble - Naples-born clarinettist and composer Luca Luciano impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Potent Realisation - Mozart's 'Idomeneo' at the Buxton Festival, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Compact and Fast-moving - Verdi's 'Alzira' at the Buxton Festival impresses Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Sensational - Maxwell Davies from the Hebrides Ensemble, recommended by Roderic Dunnett. 'As an approach to Maxwell Davies' music, this could scarcely be bettered.'

CD Spotlight. Practical Experiments? - Choral music by Jonathan Little, heard by Keith Bramich. '... Australian music with a difference.'

Ensemble. A Refreshing Novelty - Marimba duo G-Mizz, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Playing The Long Game - Mahler's 'Resurrection' Symphony from Jamie Phillips and the Hallé Orchestra impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Unaffected Directness - A song recital by Curran Doherty and Edward Turner, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Intrigue, Amusement and Confusion - Keith Bramich is impressed by Covent Garden's new production of Wagner's 'Lohengrin'

Ensemble. Showing the Wild Side - A clarinet and piano recital by Hannah Gobbett and Hugh Morris, entertains Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. American Light Opera - Opera North enthralls the audience at the Ravenna Festival in Cole Porter's 'Kiss me Kate', by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Highly Promising Talent - Katie Gilbert, Esther Beard and Edward Leung at Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Gut-wrenching Performance - Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich from Arabella Steinbacher, Michael Sanderling and the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Fantastic Story - The children's opera 'Shackleton's Cat', enjoyed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Vaguely Supernatural - George Benjamin's 'Lessons in Love and Violence' at Covent Garden, heard by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. A Different 'Manon' - Kenneth McMillan's ballet on Massenet's music arrives in Rome, enthralling Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Aural Perspective - A visit from Osnabrück by the Marienkantorei, for Elgar, Rheinberger and Mendelssohn, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. On Buoyant Form - Orchestral music by Andrew Downes, heard by Roderic Dunnett. '... varied, innovative, involving and absorbing.'

CD Spotlight. Absolutely Superb - Early music from Northern Europe, highly recommended by Geoff Pearce. 'These are truly great performances of less familiar music, and all musicians featured are of the finest quality.'

Hugely Talented - Haydn and Tchaikovsky Sonatas from Russian pianist Roman Kosyakov, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Stravinskian Credentials - Rossini, Poulenc and Saint-Saëns from Nottingham Harmonic Choir and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Puppyish Ebullience - Beethoven, Rachmaninov, Mendelssohn, Ravel, Dushkin, Bob Marley, Coleridge-Taylor and Monti from the Kanneh-Mason Trio, heard by Mike Wheeler

Vigorously Rhetorical - A piano recital by Martin James Bartlett, heard by Mike Wheeler

Boldly Presented - Martin Cousin's piano recital for Derby Chamber Music, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Engagingly Springy - The European Union Chamber Orchestra in Nottingham impresses Mike Wheeler

Book review. An Elegant Publication - Mozart's Musical Diary, 1784-1791, read by Daniel Schorno

CD Spotlight. Adeptly Handled - String Quartets by Elgar and Delius, heard by Stephen Francis Vasta. 'From the soft yet unified opening attack, we know that the Villiers Quartet will serve the score well.'

Ensemble. Well Conveyed - Stainer, Tavener, Ireland, Matthew Martin and Vaughan Williams from Derby Choral Union, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Deep Impression - Less well-known music for oboe and piano played by James Turnbull and Libby Burgess, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Compelling Production - Verdi's 'Un Ballo in Maschera' at Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Hugely Promising - Frank Zielhorst steps in as Principal Conductor of Sinfonia Viva, impressing Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Panto Flavour - Alessandro Talevi's time-travelling, Punch-and-Judy, rock-'n'-roll production of 'Don Giovanni' for Opera North has been back on the road. Mike Wheeler re-visited it in Nottingham

Ensemble. A Nasty Tale - Opera North's 'Madama Butterfly', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Serious Miscalculation - Music for choir and saxophone, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Bracing Energy - Beethoven and Tchaikovsky from Pavel Kolesnikov, Vassily Sinaisky and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Lucid Sound-world - Mendelssohn, Brahms and Beethoven from Viviane Hagner, Karina Canellakis and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Calm Authority - A recital by young British-Turkish pianist Lara Melda impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Worthy Successor - Tomáš Netopil steps in to conduct the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in Nottingham, impressing Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Excellent and Compelling - Chamber music by John McCabe impresses Geoff Pearce. 'This is a fantastic disc, both for the performances and also for this largely unfamiliar music.'

Ensemble. Deeply Involving - Haydn, Britten and Schubert from The Alke String Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Mathematical Advantage - Sinfonia Viva's annual schools residency, experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Lively and Joyful - Vivaldi, J S Bach and Handel from The Sixteen, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Book Review. A Real Gem - Jonathan Keates' study of Handel's 'Messiah', recommended by Gerald Fenech

Ensemble. Bartók Pizzicato Gun Shots - Vivaldi, Edgar Meyer and Beethoven from Joshua Bell and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields impress Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Quite Engaging - Orchestral music by Barbara Harbach, heard by Geoff Pearce. 'The musical language is easy on the ear, and to me hearkens back to an earlier age of American Composers such as Aaron Copland ...'

Strongly Projected - A piano recital by Colin Stone for Derby Chamber Music impresses Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Many Positives - Brahms' Requiem in English astounds Gerald Fenech. '... this four-hand arrangement has a captivating, translucent sound-world that transports the listener into the realms of contemplative existence; an exercise in meditative tranquility.'

Ensemble. Forcefully Engaging - A school production of 'Carmen', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Risky on Paper - Mark Elder and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain impress Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Empathetic Performances - Beethoven and Clement violin concertos, heard by the late Howard Smith. '... Barton-Pine's faultlessly sculpted performance is unequivocally persuasive ...'

Ensemble. Familiar and Unfamiliar - The Sitwell Singers' Christmas concert, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Engagingly Light on its Feet - Handel's 'Messiah' from Derby Choral Union, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Highly Interesting - British music for cello and piano, enthralls Gerald Fenech. 'An important addition to the genre's discography in excellent performances, sound and annotations ...'

Ensemble. Deftly Navigated - Jeffrey Reid Baker, Tchaikovsky, Debussy, Bizet and Rachmaninov from the Cann Twins at Nottingham's Royal Concert Hall, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Effective Combination - Music for viola and harp from Oliver Wass and Luba Tunnicliffe, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Impish Undercurrents - Prokofiev, Hummel, Sibelius and Mendelssohn from Clare Hammond, Sinfonia Viva and Duncan Ward, found irresistible by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Engaging Accounts - A Celebration of the Twentieth Anniversary of Derby Cathedral Girls' Choir, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Richly Sonorous - Derby Bach Choir joins forces with Derventio Brass for music by Schütz, Bruckner, Elgar, Walton, Parry, Monteverdi and Rutter, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Centres of Excellence - Roderic Dunnett looks back to the 2017 Three Choirs Festival at Worcester, and forward to 2018 in Hereford

Ensemble. Subdued Radiance - Mike Wheeler listens to music on the theme of Remembrance from the Derwent Singers

CD Spotlight. Infinitely Varied - English music for solo guitar, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. 'If you love English guitar music, and the performances of Julian Bream in particular, you will truly enjoy this disc.'

Ensemble. A Joy to Hear - Michael Foyle and Maksim Stsura play Beethoven, Franck and Elgar, impressing Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Jubilant Celebration - Rachmaninov, Shostakovich, Offenbach and Tchaikovsky from Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Mirga Grazinyte-Tyla and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Engrossing Results - Hungarian pianist Daniel Lebhardt plays Schubert, Mozart and Rachmaninov, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beyond Expectation - Roderic Dunnett looks back to Nevill Holt Opera's 2017 'Tosca' and 'Noye's Fludde', and forward to the company's 2018 season

CD Spotlight. Immaculately Crazy - Red Priest's 'Baroque Bohemians' impresses Alice McVeigh. '... extreme alternations of mood, from manic charges to bucolic brusqueness, with serious offbeat percussive work ... and general anarchy ...'

Ensemble. Magically Realised - Ravel's 'L'Enfant et les Sortilèges' and Janácek's 'Osud', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Musical Values - Lara Downes plays Coleridge-Taylor, Chopin, Bloch, Bernstein transcriptions and Gershwin, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Expressive Presence - Mendelssohn, Mozart, Judith Weir and Beethoven from Derby Concert Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. More Celebratory than Elegiac - Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra at the opening of the Nottingham Royal Concert Hall season, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Unique Journey - Boris Giltburg plays Rachmaninov, delighting Gerald Fenech. '... the soloist is consistently hands on on these challenging scores and his sense of timing and innate feeling for shaping grand tunes are effectively relayed.'

CD Spotlight. Gloomy and Worthless? - Sergei Rachmaninov's First Symphony impresses Gerald Fenech. 'Ashkenazy and his Philharmonia forces exude a quite brilliant performance full of explosive intensity and exuberance, and yet when warranted, their sensitive attention to detail is consistently refreshing.'

Ensemble. Loony Plot - Mike Wheeler listens to Sinfonia Viva's performances of Wagner, Milhaud, Martinu and Copland

Ensemble. Too Many Notes? - Mike Wheeler listens to Dohnányi, Mozart and Brahms from the Rogeri Ensemble

Ensemble. Devil-may-care Frolics - Sinfonia Viva at Derby Folk Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Reformation Cantatas - Commemorating a historic anniversary, reviewed by Gerald Fenech. 'Superb performances, coupled with some excellent sound and scholarly annotations complete a disc brimming with historical appeal.'

CD Spotlight. Elliptical Orbits - String quartets by British composers, heard by the late Howard Smith. '... the Kreutzer Quartet brings a faultless degree of unanimity and understanding to this selection of late twentieth century string music.'

CD Spotlight. Varied Indeed - Music for military band and chorus, enjoyed by Gerald Fenech. '... some great off-the-beaten track items that deserve to be heard more often.'

Ensemble. Impressive Unanimity - London Concertante's first visit to Derby Cathedral disappoints Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Specially Reconstructed - Music for ancient giant horns, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... for those who wallow in the joys of past cultural mysteries and their unraveling, this issue is a must.'

Historical Spread - Michael Overbury's Derby Cathedral organ recital impresses Mike Wheeler

A Welcome Return - Jennifer Bate plays the Derby Cathedral organ, heard by Mike Wheeler

Altogether Invigorating - Gabriele Baldocci's Kabalevsky and Beethoven/Liszt at the BPSE Summer Festival impress Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. A Free-flowing Style - Mike Wheeler experiences the first professional opera specifically commissioned in Welsh

Ensemble. Asking Better Questions? - Schubert, Barber, Beethoven and Shostakovich from the Brodsky Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Piquant Contrast - Mike Wheeler listens to Schulhoff and Tchaikovsky from members of the Fibonacci Sequence

Ensemble. Piquancy and Elegance - A recital by Claire Wickes and Tomos Xerri, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Emotional Extremes - Wagner, Duparc, Cecilia McDowall and Poulenc from Rachel Nicholls and Paul Plummer, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Typically Thoughtful - Paul Lewis at the Buxton Festival, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. On the Verge of Greatness - Mozart's 'Lucio Silla' at Buxton, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Social Comedy - Britten's 'Albert Herring' at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Grippingly Staged - Verdi's 'Macbeth' at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Britten and Owen - A double bill from Sinfonia Viva and The Lost Boys, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Treasure Trove - Music for Palaeolithic bone flutes fascinates Gerald Fenech. '... the oldest evidence of musical creation anywhere in the world.'

A Sure Hand - Beate Toyka plays Schubert's last piano sonata, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Superb Compositions - Chamber sonatas by Giovanni Stefano Carbonelli, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Performances abound in real vitality, rhythmic verve and dramatic engagement, and Carbonelli's genius is allowed to shine in all its exuberance.'

CD Spotlight. What treasures! - British music for flute and piano, enjoyed by the late Howard Smith. 'Smith and Rhodes present definitive, warmly recorded performances of this gorgeous, all-UK repertory, some of it apparently on disc for the first time.'

CD Spotlight. Winds of Change - Edward Gardner conducts Elgar, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Edward Gardner gives revelatory accounts of both works, always keeping in check the emotional element, but when the occasion warrants, he lets the music sweep us off our feet.'

CD Spotlight. Many Similarities - Orchestral music by George Antheil, heard by Geoff Pearce. '... the performances are committed and of high quality from all concerned, and the Chandos sound is sumptuous.'

CD Spotlight. A Versatile Composer - Music by Geoffrey Hanson, recommended by Geoff Pearce. 'Performances are superb and everyone is a standout.'

Ensemble. Tender and Engrossing - Benjamin Britten's 'Peter Grimes' in Bologna impresses Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. A Neat Bit of Programming - Khachaturian, Rachmaninov, Musorgsky and Shostakovich from Freddy Kempf, the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra and Yuri Simonov, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Stylistic Evolution - Béla Bartók's six string quartets, highly recommended by Gerald Fenech

CD Spotlight. A Superb Account - Tchaikovsky for violin and orchestra, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'The young and celebrated Korean virtuoso Moonkyung Lee is fast making a name for herself on both sides of the Atlantic, and these performances confirm all the wonderful reviews that are being written about her.'

Ensemble. Zip and Enthusiasm - Members of the Kanneh-Mason family playing at the Belper Arts Festival, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Brilliantly Invigorating - Mike Wheeler listens to the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment

Ensemble. Full-blooded Performance - Mendelssohn's 'Elijah' from Derby Choral Union and Richard Dacey, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Unjustly Neglected - In this specially extended feature, Armstrong Gibbs' re-discovered 'Passion according to St Luke' impresses Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. A Lovely Evening - William Walton's 'Façade' in Rome, alongside a symphony by Alfredo Casella, appreciated by Giuseppe Pennisi

CD Spotlight. Subdued Poise - Panayiotis Demopoulos plays Liszt, Beethoven and Demopoulos, heard by the late Howard Smith. '... adroitly articulated and intelligently moulded: a study in progress.'

Ensemble. Rock-solid Technique - Victoria, Gesualdo, Schütz, J S Bach, Poulenc and Knut Nystedt from cellist Deirdre Bencsik and the Derwent Singers impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Outstanding Example - Co-operation between the Sitwell Singers and Derby Chamber Music, featuring music by John Tavener, Bruckner and Beethoven, impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fun and Games - Mike Wheeler enjoys Opera North's take on Rossini's 'La Cenerentola'

Ensemble. Lost in its own Forest - Engelbert Humperdinck's 'Hansel and Gretel' at Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Most Impressive - Mozart, Enescu, Stravinsky and Brahms from Savitri Grier and Richard Uttley, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Celebrity Bass - Music for strings by Domenico Dragonetti, heard by the late Howard Smith. 'John Feeney reveals double bass capabilities required of a symphony orchestra's lowest strings once in a blue moon.'

Ensemble. A Thrilling Ride - Mozart, Beethoven and Sibelius from Angela Hewitt, Yutaka Sado and the Vienna Tonkünstler Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Genuine Appreciation - Piano music by Richard Fowles in homage to Erik Satie, appreciated by Paul Sarcich. 'Christina McMaster is fully sensitive to the spirit of the enterprise ...'

Ask Alice - Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh visits Covent Garden for Francesco Cilea's 'Adriana Lecouvreur'

Ensemble. Listening with Fresh Ears - A little-known version of the 'Italian Symphony' plus other music by Mendelssohn and Berlioz, from Sarah Connolly, Kati Debretzeni and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, intrigues Malcolm Miller

Nicely Unusual - Ingrid Jacoby plays Ponce, Fauré, Debussy and Musorgsky, and impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Dancing Vigour - Percussionists Owen Gunnell and Oliver Cox, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Cause for Celebration - 'Mechanical Advantage', Sinfonia Viva's latest Schools Residency, described by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Attractive Sound-world - Mike Wheeler listens to the Thorne Trio

Elegantly Presented - Mike Wheeler listens to pianist Ji Liu

Ensemble. Irridescent Colours - Copland, Ravel and Gershwin from Steven Osborne, the Hallé Orchestra and Louis Langrée, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Harmonious in Every Sense - Alice McVeigh explains why 'Der Rosenkavalier' at Covent Garden couldn't have been bettered in any department

Ensemble. Compellingly Memorable - Schubert and Liszt from Ian Tindale and Nick Pritchard impress Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Foregone Conclusion - Angela East on the rocks, heard by the late Howard Smith. '... she clearly gives serious, if misguided attention, to matters of baroque scholarship.'

Ensemble. A Stunning Display - Mike Wheeler is impressed by the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain playing Lauren Marshall, Brett Dean, Szymanowski and Rachmaninov

CD Spotlight. Vigorously Interpreted - Butterworth, Gurney and Warlock, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... the programme embraces all that is best of English song-writing in the initial phases of the twentieth century ...'

Ensemble. All the Magic of the Original - Piano arrangements played by Jenny Lin, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Idiomatically Handled - The Sitwell Singers' Christmas Concert impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Airy and Light - Handel's 'Messiah' from Hugh Morris and Derby Cathedral Choir, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Off the Wall? - The King's Singers' Christmas Songbook, heard by Keith Bramich. 'Each track ... is heavily arranged ...'

Ensemble. Lots of Tinsel - Derby Concert Orchestra's Christmas concert, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sensitive Handling - Tchaikovsky, Delius and Brahms from the Villiers String Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Well Scrubbed-up and Dapper - Sinfonia Viva and conductor Duncan Ward, with guest soloists Cordelia Williams and Alice Zawadzki, leave a deep impression on Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Translucent Artistry - Vocal duets by Schumann, Mendelssohn and Cornelius, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'The two soloists exude immaculate performances full of smooth, silky singing, where every nuance behind each word and note is brought to light ...'

CD Spotlight. Crystalline Beauty - Stravinsky choral music, highly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... Stravinsky's blend of the mystic and mundane never ceases to astound.'

Ensemble. Technicolour Redemption? - Two Puccini works at Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Fantastic Collection - Little-known harpsichord gems, strongly recommended by Alice McVeigh. '... succeeds utterly, as does the immaculately sensitive [Penelope] Cave.'

Ensemble. Passing Time - Opera North's 'Der Rosenkavalier', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Transparently a Success - Gustav Holst's 'The Cloud Messenger' impresses Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Committed Performance - Mozart from Derby Choral Union, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Smash Hit - Music for Advent from choir and saxophone, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... beautifully shaped in both the renaissance and contemporary repertoire ...'

CD Spotlight. A Serious Treat - Brass band works in memoriam, heard by Paul Sarcich. '... the bands are the best of Wales and play demanding music with utter professionalism.'

Ensemble. A Study in Dislocation - Mike Wheeler listens to Chopin, Debussy, Ligeti, Liszt, Grigory Ginzburg and Scarlatti, played by Isata Kanneh-Mason

Ensemble. Standing Throughout - Sinfonia Viva and Duncan Ward in Derby Cathedral, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

A Demanding Programme - Richard Uttley plays Schumann, Chopin and Beethoven, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Balletic Energy - Britten, Korngold and Berlioz from Vilde Frang, Nicholas Collon and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fresh and Original - John Joubert's opera 'Jane Eyre', experienced by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Vividly Projected - The Sitwell Singers' fiftieth anniversary concert, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Close Partnership in Action - J S Bach, Shostakovich, Oliver Davis and Brahms from Katherine Jenkinson and Alison Farr, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Book review. Colourful Sketches - Robert Meyer's 'The Bottom Line', recommended by the late Howard Smith

Ensemble. A Bright Idea - Sinfonia Viva players at Derby Folk Festival impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Interesting Approach - Beethoven, Guillaume Connesson and Respighi from Stéphane Denève and the Brussels Philharmonic, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Mysterious Spirit - Florian Boesch sings Schubert, enjoyed by Gerald Fenech. '... brimming with compelling moments of great yet gentle intimacy ...'

A Standard-Bearer - Nicholas McCarthy plays Reinecke's Sonata for the left hand, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Novel Soundscapes - Music by Xiaogang Ye, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. '... superbly directed and played ...'

CD Spotlight. Major Voices - Vocal and choral music by Lennox and Michael Berkeley, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... thrilling performance.'

CD Spotlight. Sheer Joy - Som Howie's debut recital, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... a lovely expansive open sound ...'

Somewhat Congested - Jonathan Scott plays the organ of Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Piquant Shadings - Peter Gould returns to Derby to give an organ recital, delighting Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. The Treasured Crown - Roderic Dunnett reports in depth on last month's Three Choirs Festival at Gloucester

A Player to be reckoned with - Organ music from Richard Hills, heard by Mike Wheeler

Tonal Clarity - An organ recital by Daniel Gottfried impresses Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Sparkling Energy - J S Bach Violin Concertos, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Manze and Podger give free reign to Bach's poetic inspiration ...'

Ensemble. Most Entertaining - Peter Eötvös' 'The Golden Dragon' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Deliciously Romanticised - Keith Bramich attends the first evening concert of the 2016 Gloucester Three Choirs Festival

CD Spotlight. Trailblazing Scores - Sacred music by Jonathan Harvey inspires Gerald Fenech. '... beautifully executed and recorded ...'

Ensemble. Sheer Enjoyment - Haydn, Bartók and Dvorák from the Chilingirian Quartet, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Captivating Evening - Vivaldi's 'La Sena Festeggiante', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Resonant Baritone - Mike Wheeler describes Josep-Ramon Olivé and Ben-San Lau's Buxton debut

CD Spotlight. Brilliant Playing - Organ music played by John Kitchen, enjoyed by Gerald Fenech. '... a curiously varied programme ...'

Ferocious Energy - Jackie Campbell's piano recital at Buxton, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Lucid Sense - Handel's 'Tamerlano' at Buxton, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Hugely Rewarding - Mozart's 'Idomeneo' at Garsington Opera impresses Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. On Vibrant Form - Bellini's 'I Capuletti e I Montecchi' at the Buxton Festival, recommended by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. First Thoughts - Mike Wheeler reports on Beethoven at the 2016 Buxton Festival

Ensemble. A Fine, Robust Performance - Handel's 'Israel in Egypt', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Well Thought-out - Reiko Fujisawa plays Bach's Goldberg Variations, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Culturally Ambiguous - Tiara Ataii listens to British-Israeli countertenor Yaniv d'Or

CD Spotlight. Incredible Musicianship - Ancient Scottish Highland music, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Although not for the faint hearted, the rewards are great ...'

CD Spotlight. Thoroughly Captivating - Seventeenth century Italian solo sonatas, admired by the late Howard Smith. '... Caudle's irreproachable grasp ... invites admiration throughout ...'

Ensemble. Creative Achievements - A seventieth birthday concert for Alexander Knapp, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Power and Eloquence - Mike Wheeler was at the culmination of Wagner's 'Ring' in Nottingham

Ensemble. Festive Sparkle - A concert to celebrate the ninetieth birthday of composer Joseph Horovitz, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Shades of Real Gentleness - Mike Wheeler listens to Lars Cleveman as Siegfried in Nottingham

Ensemble. Highly Effective - 'Das Rheingold' at Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Priceless Music-making - The horn playing of Dennis Brain, heard by the late Howard Smith. '... a sheer delight ...'

Ask Alice - Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh on the UK's 'Young Musician of the Year'

Ensemble. Sharing the Honours - Rheinberger and Parry from the Sitwell Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sonic Transparency - Fabien Gabel and the Royal Philharmonic impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Dynamic Entity - Malcolm Miller reports on the 2016 BPSE Beethoven Chamber Music Competition

CD Spotlight. A Moving Tribute - A recording dedicated to David Trendell, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... intelligence and deep musicality ...'

Ensemble. A Winner - Derby Choral Union's anniversary concert, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Me and my Aunts - A Shakespeare celebration, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Particularly Sombre - Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra commemorate The Battle of the Somme, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Distinctly Gallic - Rosanna Ter-Berg and Leo Nicholson, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. First 'Last Sonatas' - The first of three András Schiff recitals at London's Wigmore Hall whets Malcolm Miller's appetite

CD Spotlight. Immensely Responsive - The Choir of Merton College, Oxford, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... beautifully moulded lines ...'

Ensemble. Warmth and Dignity - Mike Wheeler listens to the Derwent Singers

CD Spotlight. Terrific Intensity - Robert King's 'Israel in Egypt', recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... the version to have ...'

Ensemble. Unassuming Radiance - Mike Wheeler makes special mention of soprano Lisa Cassidy in Derby Bach Choir's Michael Haydn, Mozart and Joseph Haydn

Ensemble. An Effervescent Delight - Donizetti's 'L'Elisir d'Amore' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Visually Stunning - Giordano's 'Andrea Chénier', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Barnstorming Virtuosity - The Rochdale Town Hall organ, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... played with absorbing panache by Byram-Wigfield ...'

Ensemble. Anti-romantic Opera - Opera North's 'Così fan tutte', recommended by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Ambiguous Ending - Stravinsky, Sibelius and Shostakovich from Sophie Rosa and Derby Concert Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Haydn the subversive? - The Zelkova String Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Stylized Dances - J S Bach's French Suites, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... exceptional readings full of profound emotional content, yet scholarly and alive.'

Ensemble. Illuminating Details - Arrangements by Graham Hall, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Fabulous Night - Cy Coleman and Dorothy Fields' musical 'Sweet Charity', strongly recommended by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Symphonic Thinking - Smetana, Bartók and Dvorák from Augustin Hadelich, Juanjo Mena and the BBC Philharmonic, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Vividly Characterised - A piano recital by Emmanuel Despax, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Meaty Stuff - Songs with orchestra by Michael Csányi-Wills, reviewed by Gerald Fenech. 'A stimulating initiation ...'

Ensemble. Wide-ranging Character - Andrew Dunlop, Ria Nolan and the Eblana String Trio, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beautifully Controlled - Keith Bramich makes a return visit to Jacky Wong's Hornton Chamber Orchestra

Ensemble. Wonderfully Frivolous - Chabrier's 'L'Etoile' at Covent Garden, recommended by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Energy and Commitment - Sinfonia Viva's schools residency concert, heard by Mike Wheeler

A Strong Impression - Mark Bebbington makes a return visit to Nottingham, heard by Mike Wheeler

Dancing Energy - Haydn, Mozart and Paul Patterson from Adam Mackenzie, Emily Pailthorpe and Sinfonia Viva impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Off-the-beaten Track - Chamber music from Katherine Jenkinson, Julian Bliss and Alison Farr, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Pure Python? - 'Wild Men of the Seicento', heard by Keith Bramich. '... Piers Adams and David Wright's superb performances exhibit a strangely infectious authenticity.'

Ensemble. Lyrical Warmth - Dvorák, Beethoven, Schumann and Brahms from Steven Isserlis, Joshua Bell and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Exhilarating Stuff - Piano music by Edward Loder, enjoyed by Gerald Fenech. 'Ian Hobson is a brilliant advocate of this sadly neglected repertoire ...'

Ensemble. A Composer's Christmas - The Cann Twins, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Crisp and Assured - Handel's 'Messiah' in Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wit and Effervescence - Music in the Time of Goya, by Derek Murray

Ensemble. Alert Realisations - Christmas music from The Sitwell Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Vivid Performances - Derby Concert Orchestra's Christmas concert, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

A Major Talent - Mishka Rushdie Momen plays Chopin, impressing Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Effective Contrast - Cipriano de Rore and Hubert Parry from the Derwent Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Earthy Vigour - Smetana, Beethoven and Sibelius from Jennifer Pike, Pietari Inkinen and the Prague Symphony Orchestra, impress Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Master Tailor - String music by Nigel Clarke, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... post-modern music through and through ...'

Ensemble. Delirious Joy - Opera North's 'Kiss Me, Kate' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Overwhelming Theatrical Experience - Opera North brings Janácek's 'Jenufa' to Nottingham, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Exuberant Delight - Opera North's 'The Barber of Seville', enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Refreshingly Wide-ranging - A recital by Korean pianist Jenna Sung, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Well Served - Mike Wheeler listens to Joo Yeon Sir and Irina Andrievsky

Ensemble. A Gripping Account - Derby Bach Choir sings Elgar's 'The Dream of Gerontius', and impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Vocal Chamber Music - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Mosaic at Derby Cathedral

Ensemble. Enduring Fascination - Berlioz and Tchaikovsky from Lawrence Power, the Hallé Orchestra and Ryan Wigglesworth, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Superstars - Bromley Youth Music Trust's 'West Side Story' impresses Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Excellent on All Fronts - Music for cello and orchestra, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Jamie Walton exudes warm and committed performances ...'

CD Spotlight. First Class - Prokofiev symphonies, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... Karabits has a real empathy with Prokofiev ...'

Ensemble. A Compelling Musical Experience - Beethoven, Bartók and Tchaikovsky from the Eeden Quartet, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sensitive Handling - Brahms, Elgar and Beethoven from the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra impress Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Faultless Artistry - Maria Luigia Borsi sings Italian arias, recommended by the late Howard Smith. '... outstanding in every respect.'

Finely-Judged - Mike Wheeler listens to most of a piano recital by Ashley Wass

Ensemble. Bit of Rough? - Belinda Sykes and Joglaresa in Nottingham, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Revealing Light - Early music for mezzo and viols, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Performances are quintessentially flawless ...'

CD Spotlight. A Rare Breed - John McCabe plays his own piano music, reviewed by Anthony Davie. '... an excellent and diverse range of pieces covering three decades ...'

Ensemble. Musical Integrity - Sunwook Kim and the Hallé Orchestra play Rachmaninov, and impress Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Sonic Distinction - The British vocal octet Voces8, heard by the late Howard Smith. '... a luminous selection of pieces spanning over four hundred years ...'

CD Spotlight. Passionate and Surprising - David McGuinness and friends, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'A beguiling issue in superb sound and catchy presentation.'

Ensemble. Music for the Brave Organist - Mike Wheeler listens to David Liddle's recital at Derby Cathedral

A Higher Standard - Malcolm Miller reports from the Wigmore Hall / Kohn Foundation International Song Competition

Profile. Held with Love - Halida Dinova remembers Howard Smith (1939-2015)

CD Spotlight. Worth Exploring - Piano music by Lionel Sainsbury, heard by the late Howard Smith. '... fine thematic content and impressive technical address.'

Ensemble. A Gift for the Bizarre - Salieri operas in England impress Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight. Cleverly Selected - Eighteenth century lied, recommended by the late Howard Smith. '... lucid, expressive variety.'

Ensemble. Alleged Dances - Psappha at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sense of Purpose - Schumann and Fauré from The Schubert Ensemble delight Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Understated Power - Roderick Williams and Susie Allan at the Buxton Festival impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Shifting Moods - Catalan pianist Eudald Buch at the Buxton Festival, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Haunting Effect - Spanish and Catalan music from Maria Camahort and friends, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Invigorating Music - Telemann, J S Bach and Handel from Mary Bevan and members of the English Concert, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Frustratingly Patchy - Charpentier's 'Louise', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Quartet for the End of Time - Mike Wheeler continues his reports from Buxton

Ensemble. Poise and Elegance - Tchaikovsky and Mozart from the English Chamber Orchestra, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Refreshingly Inventive - A recital by Soraya Mafi and Ian Tindale captivates Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. More than a Mere Curiosity - Verdi's 'Giovanna d'Arco', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Flawed Production - Mike Wheeler has some reservations with Donizetti's 'Lucia di Lammermoor' at Buxton

Ensemble. Grim and Shivery Intensity - Bizet's 'Carmen' at Nevill Holt Opera impresses Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight. Slickly Professional - The latest in Cala Records' 'London Sound' series impresses Howard Smith. '... music of surpassing excellence.'

Ensemble. Helmut Lachenmann at Eighty - Malcolm Miller attends a study day and concert in London

Ensemble. Nicely Varied - Beethoven, Mozart, Crusell, Françaix and Schubert from members of Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Endlessly Memorable - Britten's 'Death in Venice' from Garsington Opera at Wormsley, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. A Remarkable Service - Saint-Saëns' 'Samson and Delilah' at Grange Park Opera, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight. Pure Magic - James Brawn's continued Beethoven Odyssey, awaited by Andrew Schartmann. '... generating excitement with raw textures ...'

CD Spotlight. Vibrancy and Diversity - Choral music from Brazil appeals to Gerald Fenech. '... a strong touch of lyricism and a reverential approach ...'

Ensemble. A Special Aura - Malcolm Miller describes Goldsmith College's special tribute to Alexander Ivashkin

Ensemble. Vividly Delivered - Tom Redmond's new spoken commentary to Britten's 'Young Person's Guide' impresses Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Impressively Able - An-Ting Chang's 'Water Image', heard by Howard Smith. '... highlighting the theatrical and audio possibilities of nineteenth century piano music ...'

Ensemble. A Scintillating Evening - Szymanowski's 'King Roger' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Infectiously Enjoyable - Anniversaries at The VoiceBox in Derby, by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Delicate Shadings - Noriko Ogawa, the Warsaw Philharmonic and Jacek Kaspszyk, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Rarely Heard - Piano music by Klement Slavický, reviewed by Howard Smith. '... excellently performed and produced.'

CD Spotlight. Varied Programme - The Usher Hall organ impresses Gerald Fenech. 'John Kitchen oozes out every sound possible from this monster of an organ ...'

CD Spotlight. Probing Interpretations - John McCabe plays Nielsen, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... an exciting and forceful advocate ...'

CD Spotlight. Utmost Pleasure - English music for strings, praised by Howard Smith. '... a gorgeous new release from Naxos ...'

Ensemble. Generally Confident - Handel, Haydn and Mozart from Derby Choral Union and the Heart of England Chamber Orchestra, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Freshness and Vitality - Mike Wheeler listens to the Czech Philharmonic

Ensemble. Changing Moods - Haydn, Sibelius and Beethoven from the Dante Quartet impresses Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Tonal Beauty - The Carducci Quartet plays Shostakovich, recommended by Stephen Francis Vasta. '... you really couldn't improve on this issue as an introduction.'

CD Spotlight. Admirable Craftsmanship - Music by Maurice Jacobson, reviewed by Howard Smith. '... I'd recommend this Naxos release wholeheartedly.'

CD Spotlight. Orchestral Discipline - Berlioz's 'Harold in Italy', heard by Stephen Francis Vasta. '... sweet, plangent tone ...'

Ensemble. Punchy Vigour - J S Bach's St Matthew Passion, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Assuredly Managed - Baroque premieres, heard by Howard Smith. '... Udagawa reveals its melodic character to the full.'

Ensemble. A Figaro to Treasure - Opera North's Mozart impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Needle-sharp Vitality - Opera North's 'La Vida Breve', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Commitment and Insight - Ingrid Jacoby plays Mozart, Chopin, Brahms and Musorgsky, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Viscerally Exciting - Mendelssohn, Pärt, Mozart and Beethoven from Samuel Jacobs, Sinfonia Viva and Duncan Ward, all impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Undeniably Spellbinding - A cello and piano recital by Jessie Richardson and Simon Callaghan, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Nicely Varied - A seasonal programme from the Derwent Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Stirringly Uplifting - Organ music by William Faulkes, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Duncan Ferguson's renditions are as enthralling as they are warmly expressive ...'

Ensemble. A Fine Balance - Sophie Rosa plays Brahms' Violin Concerto, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Gallic Elegance - Alexandra Soumm joins Juanjo Mena and the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra for music by Ginastera, Lalo, Telemann, Bizet and Ravel, impressing Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Imaginative Programming - Music for recorder and harpsichord from Denmark and the UK, recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... this partnership works very well musically ...'

CD Spotlight. Heartfelt Effect - Elgar from Petrenko and the RLPO, appreciated by Howard Smith. '... our Liverpool Orchestra is every bit the equal of its fine London counterparts ...'

Ensemble. Geological Imagery - Sinfonia Viva's schools residency project moves Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. An Interesting Programme - Music for guitar and oboe / cor anglais, heard by Howard Smith. 'Zoco Duo's instrumental skills are beyond reproach ...'

Ensemble. Vivid Evocation - Mark Bebbington plays Beethoven, Ireland, Chopin and Gershwin, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wonderfully Airborne - Christina McMaster plays Debussy, McKenzie, Crawford Seeger, Ives and Beethoven, and impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Generous Spirit - Grieg, Tchaikovsky and Nielsen from Katherine Watson, Gary Griffiths, Jian Wang, Nikolaj Znaider and the Hallé Orchestra, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Soundly Constructed - Orchestral music by Barbara Harbach, heard by Howard Smith. '... the LPO is wholly admirable in this music ...'

Ensemble. Vigour and Freshness - Clarinettist Julian Bliss joins Andrew Gourlay and Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Modest Forces? - Keith Bramich listens to the first performance by a young conductor and his new orchestra

CD Spotlight. Brassy Fireworks - Music by John Pickard, heard by Andrew Schartmann. '... a thrilling listening experience.'

Ensemble. Winning Flexibility - A recital by Agnieszka Kozlowska and Beate Toyka, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

A Good Fit - Dénes Várjon's Nottingham piano recital, praised by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Something More Fluid - Mike Wheeler listens to Stephen Johnson 'discovering music', and to the BBC Philharmonic and Juanjo Mena

CD Spotlight. Operatic Riches - Arias by Handel, Bononcini and Ariosti, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Lawrence Zazzo has a bright and clear timbre ...'

Ask Alice - Restricted view recommended for Verdi's 'Un ballo in maschera' at Covent Garden, by classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Exciting Times - Duncan Ward makes his debut as Sinfonia Viva's principal conductor, experienced by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Vibrant Testimony - Music inspired by the Virgin Mary, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... overflowing with a translucent beauty ...'

CD Spotlight. Dedicated Advocates - Robert Still's four string quartets, heard by Howard Smith. 'Be prepared to be pleasantly surprised.'

CD Spotlight. Home and Abroad - Piano music by Delius, Bax, Vaughan Williams and Bridge, heard by Howard Smith. 'Commanding resolute performances of music arisen from harrowing conflict.'

Ensemble. Highly Successful - Roderic Dunnett looks back to Worcester's 2014 Three Choirs Festival, and forward to Hereford's Festival in July 2015

Great Ideas - Malcolm Miller reports on the 2014 BPSE Intercollegiate Competition, and winner Mihai Ritivoiu

Ensemble. A Pleasant Change - Derby Choral Union's Christmas Concert, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fresh and Unusual - The Sitwell Singers at Christmas, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Comparatively Tame - Richard Blackford's Great Animal Orchestra, heard by Robert Anderson. 'I can recommend the CD only to the very young at heart.'

Ensemble. Sizeable Shoes - Peter Gould's last 'Messiah' performance as Derby Cathedral's Master of the Music, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Christmas Lambswool? - Shepherds' noels from the Marian Consort, recommended by Keith Bramich. '... a rather wonderful spin-off ...'

Ensemble. Music on the Move - Derby Concert Orchestra at Christmas, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Poise and Freshness - Haydn, Mozart and Janácek from the Jubilee String Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Thoughtful Engagement - Monteverdi's 'Coronation of Poppaea', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Greater Depth - 'La Traviata' at Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Eye-popping Delight - Smetana's 'The Bartered Bride' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Simply Magical - Mike Wheeler listens to pianist Francesco Piemontesi

Ensemble. An Involving Account - A visit from Die Marienkantorei, Osnabrück, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wider Focus - Derby Bach Choir's 'Concert for Peace', heard by Mike Wheeler

An Enthralling Performance - Ji Liu plays Bach's Goldberg Variations, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Very Joyful Production - Benjamin Britten's 'Albert Herring' at Hampstead Garden Opera impresses Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Spine-tingling - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Harry Christophers and The Sixteen on tour

Ensemble. A Musical Polymath - Peter Dickinson's eightieth birthday concert, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Barnstorming Mendelssohn - Mike Wheeler listens to the Aquinas Piano Trio

Ensemble. Melting Rhapsody - Malcolm Miller enjoys Jack Liebeck and Danny Driver's 'Hebrew Melody' recital, plus a recital by David Aaron Carpenter

Ensemble. Focused Tone - Lyadov and Tchaikovsky from Leticia Moreno, Yuri Temirkanov and the St Petersburg Philharmonic impress Mike Wheeler

An Affectionate Eye - George Bernard Shaw as London Music Critic, by George Colerick

Felicitous Insights - Maksim Stsura plays Beethoven and Brahms in London, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ask Alice - On Bromley Youth Music Trust's 'Phantom', with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Plangent Atmosphere - A duet recital by Mariko Brown and Julian Jacobson, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Bringing Together - Roderic Dunnett visits James MacMillan's Cumnock Tryst

A Luminous Experience - The Derwent Singers perform music by Fauré, Tallis, Byrd, Gabrieli, Eric Whitacre and John Rutter, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. High Fives - Mike Wheeler listens to Canada's National Arts Centre Orchestra and to the NAC Wind Quintet

Ensemble. Exuberance in Reserve - A wide-ranging programme from Christopher Stripp and Lucy Colquhoun, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wildly Beautiful - Witches dressed as village ladies of the 1950s as New York Metropolitan Opera begins its HD broadcast season with Verdi's Macbeth, described by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. Genuine Elation - Brahms, Wagner and Sibelius from Nottingham, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Expressive Power - Brahms in an early music context, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Truly Angelic - Passiontide music, recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'An edifying programme in excellent sound and presentation ...'

CD Spotlight. Immediately Approachable - Music by Kevin Malone, heard by Howard Smith. '... a fantastical carnival of sound, style and social critique.'

CD Spotlight. Top-Notch - The Dobson organ at Merton College, praised by Gerald Fenech

CD Spotlight. True Command - James Brawn plays Bach, Liszt, Musorgsky and Rachmaninov, recommended by Andrew Schartmann. 'The "Promenade" ... is like butter in Brawn's hands.'

CD Spotlight. Brought to Life - Music for violin and piano completely captivates Geoff Pearce. 'The partnership is incredible ...'

Ensemble. A Thin Connection - Purcell's 'King Arthur' travels to Italy, and is experienced by Giuseppe Pennisi

Certainly Nimble - Mike Wheeler listens to pianist Antony Peebles

CD Spotlight. Atmosphere and Rhythm - Twentieth century Spanish songs, recommended by Ron Bierman. '... beautifully sung with spirited and intelligent accompaniment.'

A Big Statement - Peter Gould's last full-scale organ recital as Master of the Music at Derby Cathedral impresses Mike Wheeler

Musicianship and Restraint - Tom Corfield's organ playing impresses Tony Westerman

Considerable Beauty - An organ recital by John Hosking, heard by Tony Westerman

CD Spotlight. Longing Fulfilled - Cyprien Katsaris arranges Beethoven's 'Emperor' Concerto, enjoyed by Gerald Fenech. '... unparalleled success ...'

Sharply Focused - John Scott at the organ of Derby Cathedral delights Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Annual Event? - Cathedral organ high jinks from Peter Gould, Tom Corfield, Christopher Johns, Sachin Gunga and Ben Bloor, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Admirably Projected - Simon Hogan plays the organ at Derby Cathedral, impressing Tom Corfield

Ensemble. Smiles All Round - Fawzi Haimor conducts Sinfonia Viva and impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Completely Bonkers - H K Gruber's 'Gloria - A Pigtale', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Likeable Discs - Music for cello and piano, heard by Howard Smith. '... affectionately presented throughout.'

Out of this World - Cuban pianist Marcos Madrigal plays Schumann, Beethoven, Poulenc, de Séverac and Lecuona, heard by Bill Newman

Full Marks - Bill Newman listens to Nikolai Demidenko

Deftly Handled - Robert Quinney at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fatally Compromised - Rossini's 'Otello', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Delicate Sensitivity - The Innovation Chamber Ensemble at Buxton, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Steely Force - A devastatingly fresh take on 'Orfeo ed Eurydice', admired by Mike Wheeler

Sparkling Performances - Organist Roy Massey visits Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Whipped Cream - Buxton Festival's 2014 Opera Gala, attended by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Dramatic Weaknesses - Dvorák's 'The Jacobin', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Celebratory and Ambiguous - Mozart, Judith Weir and Ravel from the Lawson Trio at Buxton, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Very Searching - Peter Dickinson's 'The Judas Tree', heard by Robert Anderson. '... a notable performance ...'

Ensemble. Consummate Professionalism - Nigel Ogden begins Derby Cathedral's series of summer organ recitals, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Refined Balance - Purcell sonatas, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... irrepressibly elegant and restrained.'

Ensemble. Pure Entertainment - Roderic Dunnett visits Garsington Opera at Wormsley

Ensemble. Orchestral Showpieces - Cristian Mandeal conducts the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Phew! - Mahler's Ninth Symphony from Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra impresses Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Masterful Handling - Volume 3 of James Brawn's Beethoven, praised by Andrew Schartmann. '... his interpretive choices are exquisite.'

Ensemble. Collective Virtuosity - Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, Rachmaninov and Britten from Natalie Clein, the Moscow Philharmonic and Yuri Simonov, heard by Mike Wheeler

Profile. Uniquely Proactive - Howard Smith reviews the career of Alexander Ivashkin, who died in January 2014

CD Spotlight. Characteristic Patina - Brahms chamber music, heard by Howard Smith. '... Walther-Korevaar-Fejér are exemplary in all three works.'

CD Spotlight. Perfect Indeed - More Beethoven from James Brawn, recommended by Andrew Schartmann. '... a profound - almost spiritual - connection to the music ...'

Ensemble. Capably Sung - J S Bach's St John Passion in Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

DVD Spotlight. Innocence Abused - Britten's 'Death in Venice', reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... Britten conjures weird and wonderful sounds from his orchestra ...'

CD Spotlight. Umpteen Contemporaries - Yoon-Hee Kim plays Khachaturian and Tchaikovsky, heard by Howard Smith. '... she appears to lack the aural muscle of others ...'

Ensemble. Deeply Gratifying - The first performance of Ian Venables' new clarinet quintet, heard by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Closely Argued - Mike Wheeler listens to Andrew Dunlop and the Eblana String Trio

Ensemble. Repetitive Chugging - Mike Wheeler comes face to face with Orff's Carmina Burana

Ensemble. Wonderfully Atmospheric - Górecki, Chilcott, Thompson and Bernstein from Malcolm Goldring and the Sitwell Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Almost Physical Impact - Verdi's Requiem, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fourteen People and a Dog - Brits in Rome, heard by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Hugely Enjoyable - Mike Wheeler listens to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Ensemble. Absolutely Luminous - Thomas Bowes plays the Barber Violin Concerto, and impresses Alice McVeigh

Nicely Pointed - A piano recital by Robert Thompson, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Interesting Idea - Opera North's 'From Paris with Love', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Magnificently Sonorous - Brahms, Dvorák and Rimsky-Korsakov from the Derby Concert Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Constantly Knitting - Mike Wheeler was at Opera North's Verdi Macbeth

Ensemble. Exploration and Discovery - 'Die Frau Ohne Schatten' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - On Rodelinda at English National Opera, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. High Spirits - The Piatti String Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Sense of Unwinding - Roderic Dunnett marvels at Henze's Boulevard Solitude

Ensemble. Beautifully Presented - The Heron Piano Quartet, recommended by Alice McVeigh

Beautifully Spun - Steven Osborne's Prokofiev, Ravel and Rachmaninov impress Keith Bramich

Ensemble. Full Value - The Vienna Tonkünstler Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Joint Project - Sinfonia Viva's annual schools' residency, experienced by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Dance-like Vitality - Nick van Bloss plays Chopin, heard by Andrew Schartmann. '... unprecedented freshness ...'

CD Spotlight. Much to Enjoy - Mark Padmore sings British vocal music, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... beautifully sung, recorded and presented ...'

A Compelling Overall Experience - Mike Wheeler listens to Italian pianist Leonora Armellini

CD Spotlight. Sheer Pleasure - Eric Coates' commercial recordings delight Patric Standford. '... this collection has its own particular value ...'

Deeper Probings - A recital by Jong-Gyung Park, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Expressive Nuances - Holst, Mozart and Sibelius from Tasmin Little and the European Union Chamber Orchestra, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Scruff-of-the-neck Treatment - Sibelius and Mendelssohn from Nottingham Harmonic Choir, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Cogent Achievements - Peter Maxwell Davies' tenth symphony and other British music, heard by Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight. Marvellous Sounds - Rachmaninov's All-Night Vigil, admired by Robert Anderson. '... tender and powerful ...'

CD Spotlight. Quite Sensational - Iestyn Davies' Handel arias impress Roderic Dunnett. '... pretty wonderful ...'

Ensemble. Deeply Satisfying - John Wilson conducts the CBSO, heard by Mike Wheeler

Consummate Elegance - Mike Wheeler listens to Sarah Beth Briggs

Ensemble. Powerfully Expressive - Mike Wheeler listens to saxophonist Anthony Brown

Ensemble. Highly Communicative - Murray Gold's first major choral work, heard by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Conscientious Objector - Unknown music by Benjamin Britten, heard by Gerald Fenech

CD Spotlight. Dramatic Attitudes - Tchaikovsky piano music, heard by Robert Anderson. 'I am grateful to Nadav Hertzka for much enchantment during this CD.'

Ensemble. Added Vibrancy - Mike Wheeler listens to a classy concert from the Sitwell Singers

Verging on Truculence - Mike Wheeler listens to Kazakhstan-born pianist Samson Tsoy

Ensemble. Tonal Refinement - Christmas music from Derby Concert Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Fresh Voice - Choral music by Bob Chilcott, heard by Andrew Schartmann

CD Spotlight. Rare Provenance - Sue Addison plays Elgar's own trombone, heard by Howard Smith. 'Recommended without hesitation.'

Ensemble. Astonishing Vocal and Physical Power - Britten's 'Death in Venice', heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Tension and Restlessness - More Britten, with Finzi and Holst, from Derby Bach Choir, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Delicious Buzzing - A new departure for Derby's Assembly Rooms, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Real Verve - Markus Stenz conducts the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Liquid Velvet - Paul Wiffen listens to the new soprano-piano duo TangOpera

Ensemble. Tragic Splendour - More Britten from Paul Daniel and the BBC Philharmonic, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Outstanding Productions - Opera North's Britten celebrations, with Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Last Gasp of Boyhood - Roderic Dunnett investigates Jubilee Opera's 'A Time There Was' for the Benjamin Britten centenary

Buzzy Textures - Clare Hammond plays in Nottingham, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Intimate and Moving - The Ex Cathedra consort and continuo, heard by Keith Bramich

Ensemble. A Thrilling Journey into the Unknown - Malcolm Miller visits the London International Jazz Festival

Ensemble. Vivid and Colourful - Two choirs join forces to celebrate the Britten anniversary, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Enterprisingly Apt - A wide-ranging recital by Janey Miller and Susie Summers, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Sterling Work - Choral music by Imogen Holst, heard by Robert Anderson. '... a notable and much overdue act of piety.'

Ensemble. Suave and Polished - Mike Wheeler discovers the Heath Quartet

DVD Spotlight. Collapsing Troy - Berlioz from Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... much orchestral wizardry under Antonio Pappano ...'

Ensemble. Exploring the Darker Side - Dan Miller and Richard Hodges at Derby's Festival of Britten, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Crisp Articulation - Mike Wheeler listens to Israeli pianist Ishay Shaer

Ensemble. Maximum Expressive Contrast - Henning Kraggerud and the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra with Stéphane Denève, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Extremely Well-crafted - British music for oboe and strings, heard by Patric Standford. '... a particularly valuable contribution to the catalogue.'

Ensemble. Rather Impressive - Mark Berry experiences English National Opera's 'Madama Butterfly'

Ensemble. A Runaway Success - Juanjo Mena and the BBC Philharmonic impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Virtuoso Dazzle - Andrei Korobeinikov and the Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra, Moscow, conducted by Nikolay Vinokurov, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Generous Weekend - The third William Alwyn Festival, attended by Patric Standford

CD Spotlight. Deeply Affecting - Ian Bostridge sings Benjamin Britten, heard by Andrew Schartmann. '... Bostridge conveys the emotional content ... with unwavering conviction.'

Astonishing Performance - All of Beethoven's piano sonatas played in one day by Julian Jacobson, heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Power and Delicacy - Eloisa-Fleur Thom and Mark Austin, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. An Attractive Simplicity - Choral music by Margaret Rizza, heard by Patric Standford. '... appealing choral textures ...'

A Nostalgic Read - Personal memories of Liverpool's Playhouse Theatre, read by Gerald Fenech

Ensemble. A Gripping Start - Sunkwook Kim, Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra in Nottingham impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Searingly Passionate - Katherine Jenkinson and Ning Kam open Derby Chamber Music's new season, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Rather Extraordinary - Alec Roth's new string quartet, enjoyed by Keith Bramich

DVD Spotlight. Unstinted Commitment - Janáček's Cunning Little Vixen, enjoyed by Gerald Fenech

CD Spotlight. First Water - The latest disc from Roger Argente's Superbrass, recommended by Paul Sarcich. 'Who but the best professionals could live up to this?'

Fire and Energy - Peter Gould provides a compelling end to Derby Cathedral's summer organ series, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Poise and Serenity - Piano music by Alexander Chapman Campbell, heard by Keith Bramich. '... there are signs that ... Campbell ... knows exactly what he's doing.'

Technique and Musicianship - Tony Westerman is impressed by the organ playing of Tom Corfield

Ensemble. A Sense of Joy - The Gough Duo at Derby Cathedral impresses Tony Westerman

Ensemble. Inspiration and Confidence - Mozart's Magic Flute at Nevill Holt Opera impresses Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Smoothly Compatible - Malcolm Troup is witness to the manual (four-handed) marriage of two musical missionaries

Wacky and Serious - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Ben Bloor's command of the Derby Cathedral organ

CD Spotlight. Crystalline Intensity - La Nuova Musica's Vivaldi and Handel impresses Howard Smith. '... recommendable for its baroque verisimilitude and clarity.'

Outstanding Playing - An organ recital by John Kitchen, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Jaw-droppingly Compelling - A Sciarrino and Maxwell Davies double bill from Music Theatre Wales, by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beautifully Judged - Ravel for piano duet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Terrific Energy - A short double bill from Buxton's Young Artists programme, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Fresh Insights - Paul Kildea discusses work on his recent book about Britten, heard by Mike Wheeler

Admirable Clarity - Andrew Kirk at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beautifully Delivered - The Academy of Ancient Music reminds us of Handel's early career in Rome, by Ellen MacDonald-Kramer

CD Spotlight. A Quality Acquisition - John Rutter from Tewkesbury, heard by Howard Smith. '... strikingly effective ...'

Ensemble. Typically Convoluted - Mike Wheeler returns to Buxton for Vivaldi's 'Ottone in Villa'

Ensemble. Incredibly Welcome - Roderic Dunnett visits Grange Park Opera for Tchaikovsky's 'Eugene Onegin'

A Beethoven Sandwich - Malcolm Troup's recital, heard by Julian Jacobson, also featured Bloch and Britten

Quiet Dignity - Organist David Pipe at Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Enjoyably Daft - Mike Wheeler experiences Mozart's 'La Finta Giardiniera' at Buxton

Ensemble. Colourful Treatment - French comedies launch the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Triumphant Climax - Five organists at two organs open this year's series of Derby Cathedral organ recitals, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Lively Forms - Music by Joaquín Turina, heard by Patric Standford. '... superbly performed ...'

Ensemble. Bursting with Vitality - Mendelssohn and Beethoven from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra thrilled Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Quiet but Clear - Beethoven's Op 18 String Quartets, heard by Andrew Schartmann. '... the Allegri's light touch works.'

Ensemble. Deeply Moving - Britten's 'Curlew River' in Rome, experienced by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Spine-Tingling - Monteverdi's Vespers of 1610 in Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Enjoyable Performances - Tasmin Little plays Strauss and Respighi, heard by Ron Bierman. '... a winning program ...'

CD Spotlight. Mostly Excellent - Smetana's 'The Bartered Bride', heard by Stephen Francis Vasta. '... a fine performance ...'

Ensemble. Spiritual Heroism - Grieg and Sibelius from John Storgårds and the BBC Philharmonic impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Vividly Colourful - Nikolaj Znaider conducts the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beautifully Captured - Mike Wheeler listens to the Mavron Quartet

Ensemble. Restrained Intensity - Mike Wheeler drops in on the City of London Sinfonia's Fauré Requiem tour

Ensemble. A Fascinating Insight - Georg Tintner's 'The Ellipse' and music by other Viennese émigrés, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. A Virtuoso Storm - Alexander Romanovsky joins Cristian Mandeal and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Prism of Time - Malcolm Miller looks back to a Simon Bainbridge performance last summer, and forward to Wigmore Hall's Bainbridge Study Day this month

Ensemble. Warmly Resonant - J S Bach's B minor Mass, heard in Derby Cathedral by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. War and Peace - Music by Karabits and Silvestrov, heard by Howard Smith. 'Another enterprising feather in Naxos' richly plumaged cap.'

A Thoughtful Account - Richard Uttley plays Beethoven, Grieg, Britten, Bartók, Debussy, Timothy Jackson, Liszt and Schumann, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Warmth and Clarity - Smetana, Beethoven and Dvořák from The Czech Philharmonic, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Consummate Skill - Music for newly designed oboes impresses Patric Standford. '... as fascinating and challenging as it is revelatory.'

Ensemble. Profoundly Moving - Sibelius and Elgar from Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Mature or Immature? - Roderic Dunnett asks some questions about 'Die Feen', a Wagner rarity performed recently by Chelsea Opera Group

CD Spotlight. A Manipulating Baton - Rachmaninov orchestral music, heard by Ron Bierman. 'Vasily Petrenko gives us an extreme interpretation ...'

Ensemble. Vindictive Depths - Mike Wheeler was at Opera North's 'Otello'

Ensemble. Breaking Silence - Gergely Madaras conducts Sinfonia Viva, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fierce Snarling - Sinfonia Viva's latest schools residency project, experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Truly Powerful - Giuseppe Pennisi experiences Ravenna's first performance of Britten's 'The Rape of Lucretia'

Ensemble. Involving and Engrossing - Derby Bach Choir's St John Passion impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Expert Young Performers - Haydn's 'Creation' at Harrow School, heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Young Turks in Kensington - Jaqueline Tu, Ensemble 111 and Thibauld Back de Surany, heard by Michael Tremberth

Ensemble. Startlingly Effective - Purcell and Poulenc from Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Shimmer, Sizzle and Shock - Roderic Dunnett is enthralled by Alban Berg's 'Lulu', currently on tour with Welsh National Opera

Ensemble. Deeply Moving - Handel, Elgar and Mahler, heard by Mike Wheeler

Rich Colours - Mike Wheeler listens to the Eblana String Trio and pianist Andrew Dunlop

Ease of Technique - Malcolm Miller listens to the competitors at the 2013 Beethoven Junior Intercollegiate Piano Competition

Impressive Control - A piano recital by Richard Uttley, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Enduring Legacy - Sibelius symphonies, recommended by Howard Smith. '... an important enterprise ...'

Ensemble. Exhilaratingly Refreshing - Yutaka Sado and the BBC Philharmonic, heard by Mike Wheeler

Beautifully Judged - Mike Wheeler listens to Finnish pianist Juho Pohjonen

Ensemble. Something more Exotic - Camels on the Silk Road, experienced by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Cruelly Written Out - Simon Broughton listens to works by Gideon Klein and Hans Krása

Ensemble. Nimble Playing - Music for saxophone and piano played by Huw Wiggin and James Sherlock, heard by Mike Wheeler

Life around the Piano - Pianos and Wine - Jaqueline C Tu compares the selection of alcohol and musical instruments

CD Spotlight. Novel Results - The first release on Robert King's new label, heard by Robert Anderson. '... may lack something in grandeur but nothing in subtlety.'

Ensemble. Orchestral Colours - Garry Walker conducts Sinfonia Viva, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Wholly Inspiring - A recital by Elaine Huckle, heard by Howard Smith. '... her tonal resources are robust and the delivery pleasingly straightforward.'

Ensemble. Deeply Sensitive - Mike Wheeler listens to the European Union Chamber Orchestra

Fromage Dangereux - French-Canadian pianist Louise Bessette, heard by Mike Wheeler

Think of Something Beautiful - Malcolm Miller pays tribute to contralto Sybil Michelow

Ask Alice - An encounter with Birtwistle's Minotaur at Covent Garden, for Classical Music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Life around the Piano - In the first of a new series, Jaqueline C Tu describes a tussle with a small pianist

CD Spotlight. A Winning Combination - Songs, ballads and rondos based on Haydn, enjoyed by Howard Smith. '... unfailingly practiced in late eighteenth century performing style ...'

CD Spotlight. Inescapably Attentive - British music for piano duo, heard by Howard Smith. '... Mercury emerges with captivating ethereal qualities.'

CD Spotlight. Elegant Precision - A recital by Charlotte de Rothschild, heard by Howard Smith. '... consistently reliable ...'

Ensemble. Perennial Themes - A winter programme from Passamezzo, heard by Emma Tristram

Ensemble. Sturm und Drang - The Gould Piano Trio, heard by Michael Tremberth

CD Spotlight. Muscular and Energetic - Orchestral music by Witold Lutoslawski, heard by Howard Smith. '... played with conspicuous élan ...'

Ensemble. A Seasonal Nod - Derby Concert Orchestra's Christmas concert, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Charisma, Punch and Pull - Roderic Dunnett listens to Valery Gergiev conduct Szymanowski and promote the opening of Mariinsky2

Ensemble. On Sparkling Form - Derby Cathedral Choir's Handel 'Messiah', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Gallic Sheen - Christmas choral music from Arsys Bourgogne, heard by Keith Bramich. '... a well-recommended stocking-filler ...'

Ensemble. Crunchy Bitonality - Music by Julian Dawes, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Bounce and Swagger - Musica Donum Dei's 'Handel and Other Visitors to London', heard by Mike Wheeler

An Uplifting Concert - Malcolm Miller was at the 20th Intercollegiate Beethoven Piano Competition

CD Spotlight. Highly Recommended - Music for Advent intrigues Gerald Fenech. '... one of the discs of the year as far as choral music is concerned ...'

Ensemble. Whizzy Visuals - Gounod's 'Faust', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Elements of Panto - Mozart's 'Don Giovanni' entertains Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Natural Stage Presence - Guild Music's concert to celebrate the launch of two new CDs, reviewed by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Passionate Urgency - Janácek's 'The Makropoulos Case', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Full Rein - Derby Bach Choir sings Haydn, Vivaldi and Beethoven, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Splendid Violinist - Peter Fisher's 'Music from the Movies', enjoyed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Taking Risks - English Touring Opera's Autumn productions, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight. Special Enchantment - Richard Hickox's 'Light of Life' impresses Howard Smith. '... Chandos/Hickox win hands down.'

Ensemble. Elegant as well as Functional - Thomas Adès' 'The Tempest' live in HD, enjoyed by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. An Inspired Choice - Benjamin Ellin, Elgar, Grieg, Dvorák and Janácek from Mark Elder, Jamie Phillips and the Hallé Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Serene Flow - Mozart, Saint-Saëns and Dvorák from the Aquinas Piano Trio, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Poise and Charm - Poulenc, Debussy and Puccini from Derby Choral Union, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Finely Judged - Chinese pianist Di Xiao, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Spirited Playing - Matthew Coorey conducts Sinfonia Viva, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Contrapuntal Flight - Piano duos by Hans Gál, heard by Robert Anderson. '... played with their customary skill by Anthony Goldstone and Caroline Clemmow.'

Most Impressive - Bill Newman listens to Swiss-Italian pianist Francesco Piemontesi

Ensemble. Transfiguration and Redemption - Vaughan Williams' 'Pilgrim's Progress', appreciated by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Two Worlds - Malcolm Miller looks forward to the Wagner bicentenary and back to a semi-staged performance of Jonathan Harvey's 'Wagner Dream'

CD Spotlight. Skillful and Imaginative - Music by Arlene Sierra impresses Patric Standford. '... an impressive and valuable first volume introduction ...'

Ensemble. Fairy-tale Magic - Mike Wheeler listens to the Dresden Philharmonic Orchestra

Ensemble. Achingly Beautiful - Agostino Steffani's 'Orlando Generoso', experienced by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Exquisitely Floated - Soprano Catrin Woodruff joins the Derby Concert Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Great Delicacy - Jenny Lin at Notttingham's Royal Concert Hall, heard by Mike Wheeler

Lucidity of Touch - Leonora Armellini plays for the Keyboard Trust, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Total Rapport - Jonathan Dormand and Marisa Gupta's Fauré, Brahms and Prokofiev impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Intertwining Counterpoint - The St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Cerebral Performances - Liszt-Wagner piano paraphrases, heard by Howard Smith. 'Fisch performs these transcriptions with striking clarity and communicative sensitivity.'

Ensemble. A Notable Evening - Music by Prokofiev, Tchaikovsky and Taneyev, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. New Light - Mozart's Requiem from the Sitwell Singers impresses Mike Wheeler

Superbly Realised - Llyr Williams plays for the Chopin Society UK, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Expressive Power - Malcolm Miller listens to The Sixteen's 'The Earth Resounds'

Pianistic Colour - Jong-Gyung Park at Derby Chamber Music impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Relaxed Evening - Bill Newman attends a 'family sing-song' event in London

CD Spotlight. Tonal Clarity - Music by Jonathan Little, heard by Patric Standford. '... beautifully performed ...'

Ensemble. A Fabulous Evening - Hokusai Chamber Orchestra's memorial concert for the 2011 Japan Earthquake and Tsunami impresses Bill Newman

Ensemble. The Flame of Music - Malcolm Troup reports on new arrivals from China and Lithuania at the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe's Summer Festival in London

Ensemble. A Taste for Melody - Giuseppe Pennisi reports on Spontini's recently discovered comedy 'La Fuga in Maschera'

CD Spotlight. Buxom and Comely? - Music by Gustav Holst, heard by Paul Sarcich. '... music of charm and individuality.'

Ensemble. A Fervent Spirit - Malcolm Miller muses on the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra's recent Beethoven and Boulez cycle in London

Ensemble. Brazilian Flags - The Sao Paulo Symphony Orchestra at the BBC Proms, heard by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Glorious Singing - A recital by Alice Coote and Graham Johnson, heard by Gerald Fenech. '... interpreted with great zest and passion ...'

CD Spotlight. Fascinating Music - Works from the Eton Choirbook, heard by Robert Anderson. '... vibrant and alive.'

Superb Control - Tom Corfield gives ths last of this summer's Derby Cathedral summer organ recitals, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Uniquely English - A tribute to violinist Ralph Holmes, heard by Howard Smith. '... an invigorating spontaneity ...'

Beautifully Played - Terence Bennett listens to organist David Liddle

A Challenging Listen - Peter Gould at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Terence Bennett

DVD Spotlight. Brilliant - Music from Tyneside and beyond, enjoyed by Howard Smith. '... a rich cavalcade of internationally known and local singers ...'

Calmness and Frenzy - H J Lim plays at Wigmore Hall, and Bill Newman passes judgement

CD Spotlight. Real Worth - Orchestral music by Patric Standford stimulates Robert Anderson. 'All the music on this CD is logical, intelligible, and gripping.'

Ensemble. The Finest of Them All - The 2012 Hereford Three Choirs Festival, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Purity of Sound - Richard Strauss, Fauré, Debussy, Poulenc, Wolf and Berg from Christiane Karg and Malcolm Martineau, heard by Bill Newman

Spell-Binding - A recital by organist Steven Grahl, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Potent Emphasis - Malcolm Miller was at the recent Bloch and Israeli Music competitions

CD Spotlight. Serving the Memory - Vaughan Williams conducted by Hickox, heard by Paul Sarcich. '... this series will undoubtedly please British music aficionados.'

CD Spotlight. Divine Service - George Dyson's 'The Canterbury Pilgrims', admired by Robert Anderson. '... suitably exciting.'

Boldly Shaped - D'Arcy Trinkwon at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Uniquely Memorable - The Kronos Quartet at the BBC Proms, heard by Malcolm Miller

Nicely Paced - Martyn Rawles at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Excellent Performances - Keyboard works by John McCabe, recommended by Bill Newman. '... ideal interpreters ...'

Ensemble. An Interesting Production - Britten's 'The Turn of the Screw', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Production to be Proud Of - Mozart's 'Il Re Pastore' at New College Oxford, reviewed by Alice McVeigh

Playing Devil's Advocate - Bill Newman tells the story of his visit to London's St John's Smith Square to hear Idil Biret play Beethoven

Ensemble. Thrilling Singing - A Sibelius and Rimsky-Korsakov double bill, experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Less is More - Handel's 'Jephtha' at Buxton, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. First-class Second-rate Strauss - Mike Wheeler visits the Buxton Festival

Delicacy and Clarity - Bill Newman listens to young Chinese pianist Jianing Kong

Great Energy - Jane Watts launches Derby Cathedral's series of summer organ recitals, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Fascinating Recording - John Joubert's string quartets, heard by Alice McVeigh. 'The Brodskys throw themselves into the lament for Shostakovich ...'

Ask Bill! - Everything you've wanted to know about music (and more) from your self-appointed agony uncle, Bill Newman, who also visits London's Wigmore Hall to hear French pianist Bertrand Chamayou

Ensemble. Mystery and Drama - Benjamin Britten's chamber opera 'The Turn of the Screw' opens the 55th Spoleto Festival, reviewed by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Intensely Expressive - Italian baroque choral music, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Enchanting Music - The Castalian Quartet and friends, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Mills and Chimneys - Sinfonia Viva's schools residency project, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

He Played Every Single Note! - Alexei Volodin at London's Queen Elizabeth Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Wonderful Performances - Latvian magic from pianist Reinis Zarins, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Incandescent Performance - Nigel Kennedy with the Royal Philharmonic and Andrew Litton, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Tender Lyricism - Andrew Gourlay and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Judge not lest you be Judged! - Malcolm Troup reports on the 2012 Beethoven Piano Society of Europe's chamber music masterclass, concert and competition

CD Spotlight. Melodic Best - Recent concerti for strings, heard by Ron Bierman. 'Warmly recommended.'

Ensemble. On Confident Form - Derby Cathedral Choir marks the royal jubilee, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Avowedly Definitive - John McCabe plays his own 'Tenebrae', heard by Howard Smith. '... imbued with anger and monumental in both structure and outlook ...'

Ensemble. Engrossing and Moving - Giuseppe Pennisi was at La Scala for a new production of 'Peter Grimes'

Ensemble. Thrilling Renditions - Martino Tirimo plays Tchaikovsky, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Superbly Played - Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Luminescently Virtuoso - Erdem Misirlioglu's BPSE competition winner's recital, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Total Commitment - Alexander Liebreich conducts the Berlin Symphony Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. High Praises - F W Murnau's 'Faust' impresses Bill Newman

Ensemble. Beauty of Tone - Danill Trifonov's prizewinner's concert from the Arthur Rubinstein Piano Master Competition, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Sheer Beauty - Bruckner 8 from Barenboin and the Staatskapelle Berlin, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Born to Excel - Recent concerts in London, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Powerfully Involving - Juanjo Mena and the BBC Philharmonic, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Serenely Reflective - Choral music by Bob Chilcott, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... the singing has a transcendent quality ...'

Ensemble. Strength of Purpose - Nicholas Collon conducts Sinfonia Viva, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Compellingly Memorable - Haydn, Shostakovich and Schubert from the Allegri Quartet, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Great Conviction - Mendelssohn, Mozart and Vivaldi from Derby Choral Union, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Gleaming Sonorities - Handel, Haydn, Delius and Mozart from the European Union Chamber Orchestra impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Thoroughly Enjoyable - Mike Wheeler listens to the Richard Roddis Singers on tour

Ensemble. Superb Playing - Bill Newman listens to a selection of instrumental chamber music in London

CD Spotlight. A Fine Partnership - Daniel Norman and Christopher Gould sing Britten, heard by Robert Anderson. '... the surest of touches ...'

Ensemble. Intelligent Phrasing - J S Bach's 'St John Passion' at Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Emotional Impressions - Bill Newman listens to Neapolitan pianist Clelia Cafiero

Ensemble. Powerfully Expressive - Holst, Howells, Finzi and Liszt from the Derwent Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Modest Performances - A guitar recital by Stephen Reck, heard by Patric Standford. '... a competent and varied presentation ...'

Ensemble. An Exciting Five Years - Mike Wheeler was at André de Ridder's last concert as Principal Conductor of Sinfonia Viva

Ensemble. Mysterious Thresholds - Elgar's 'Dream of Gerontius' at Harrow School moves Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Brilliantly Incisive - Bach's St Mark Passion in a new English translation, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

South Bank Pianists - Bill Newman listens to Peter Donohoe, Richard Goode and Peter Jablonski

CD Spotlight. Ferocious Virtuosity - Britten concertos, heard by Robert Anderson. '... worth rescuing ...'

Ensemble. Haunting Performance - Rob Buckland joins Jonathan Trout and Derby Concert Orchestra for Borodin, Glazunov, Piazzolla and Rachmaninov, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Splendidly Evocative - Beethoven, Cecilia McDowall and Schumann from the English Piano Trio, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Compelling Settings - Lassus, Gesualdo, Purcell, Byrd, J S Bach, Bruckner, Brahms and Tucapský from the Sitwell Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sensuous Depths - A selection of orchestral concerts at London's Royal Festival Hall, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Commitment and Energy - Sinfonia Viva contributes to the UK's 'Music Nation', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Comedic Flair - Britten's 'Albert Herring', reviewed by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. Natural Affinity - Klaggerud, Petrenko and the Philharmonia, heard by Bill Newman

CD Spotlight. Interpretatively Distinctive - Recent music for viola and piano, recommended by Howard Smith. '... keen, committed musicianship.'

Ensemble. Soulful Intensity - Bellini's 'Norma', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Deftly Trimmed - Handel's 'Giulio Cesare', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Expressive Insights - A recital by Lara Melda, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Superb Control - Wagner, Bruch and Elgar in Nottingham, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beautifully Precise - Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich and Ysaÿe from the Russian State Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Complete Engagement - Mike Wheeler listens to pianist Helen Reid

Ensemble. Mesmerising Stillness - Stephen Hough joins Marin Alsop and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sublime Music-making - Kurt Masur conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Humour and Fizz - Eddie Daniels and the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Kristjan Järvi, heard by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. A Great Evening - Beethoven and Dallapiccola from Esa-Pekka Salonen and the Philharmonia Orchestra, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Paying Homage - Nikolai Demidenko plays Schubert at London's Wigmore Hall, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Thrilled Beyond Measure - Jurowski conducts the LPO, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. A Memorable Occasion - Redwood, Shostakovich, Janácek and Mozart from André de Ridder and Sinfonia Viva, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Remarkable Performance - Eisler, Gershwin, Mozart, Poulenc, Schumann and Weill from Katie Bray and William Vann, heard by Mike Wheeler

Superbly Interpreted - Jonathan Biss plays Beethoven and Janácek, heard by Bill Newman

Fun-and-games Time - Mike Wheeler listens to Venetian pianist Alessandro Taverna

Ensemble. Brilliant in the Extreme - Mozart and Brahms from the Razumovsky Ensemble, enjoyed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Lilting Charm - Bill Newman listens to the Danish String Quartet

Dramatic Excitement - Christian Blackshaw has begun his Mozart piano sonata Marathon in London, and Bill Newman was in the audience

Ensemble. 2011 Specials - A roundup of London concerts enjoyed by Bill Newman, featuring recitals by Alice Sara Ott, the Emerson Quartet, Martin Fröst and Roland Pontinen, the Orchestra of the Polish EU Presidency, Kreeta-Julia Heikkilä and Roope Grondahl, and Martino Tirimo's Rosamunde Trio

CD Spotlight. Handsome Praise - Rachmaninov piano music, heard by Robert Anderson. 'The uncelebrated John Lill is totally in command throughout ...'

Ask Alice - A visit to Covent Garden for 'Die Meistersinger', with Classical Music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Invigorating Performance - Handel's 'Messiah' from Derby Choral Union, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Searing Intensity - Havergal Brian's 'Gothic' Symphony impresses Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Deeply Affecting - A Remembrance Concert in Clapham, attended by Michael Graubart

Ensemble. 'Back to Bloch' - Sybil Michelow on the Importance of being Ernest Bloch

Ensemble. Breezy Treatment - Familiar and unfamiliar music from The Sitwell Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Plenty to Bite Into - Derby Concert Orchestra celebrates Christmas, heard by Mike Wheeler

Of Bagatelles and Weightier Matters - Julian Jacobson reports on the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe's Beethoven Senior Intercollegiate Piano Competition

Ensemble. A Balanced Exploration - Mike Wheeler listens to Ensemble Viva play Schumann, Mendelssohn and Beethoven

Quite Superb - Julian Jacobson plays Beethoven, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Airy Textures - The Piatti String Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wonderful Music - Works by Julian Anderson, Mozart and Tchaikovsky performed by Janine Jansen, Vladimir Jurowski and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, enjoyed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Believable Characters - Handel's 'Rodelinda' at New York Metropolitan Opera, reviewed from the HD transmission by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. Thoughtful Performance - Derby Bach Choir's Christmas concert, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Flying Colours - Yelian He and Yasmin Rowe play Chopin, Beethoven and Piazzolla, heard by Bill Newman

Power and Delicacy - Alexander Romanovsky plays Haydn and Rachmaninov, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Exciting Sonorities - Oliver Rudland's 'The Owl who was Afraid of the Dark', enjoyed by Robert Anderson and a six-year-old friend

Ensemble. Poetic Insight - A recital by Erdem Misirlioglu, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Luminous Scoring - Jongen, Dukas, Fauré, Respighi and Messiaen from Jonathan Scott, Cristian Mandeal and the Hallé Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Thrilling Singing - Elgar and Duruflé with a surprise soloist, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Soundscapes and Ornithology - Music by Jonathan Harvey, heard by Jennifer Paull. '... spiritual mind and fertile imagination ...'

Ensemble. Stunning Portrayals - Debussy and Bartók, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Fascinatingly Varied - The Eblana String Trio and David Curington at Derby Chamber Music, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Convincing Jazz - Will Todd's 'Mass in Blue', heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Fiery Impetuosity - Tchaikovsky orchestral music, heard by Robert Anderson. '... a powerful and committed performance ...'

CD Spotlight. Restful Indeed - English music by Hurd, Milford and Blackford, heard by Howard Smith. '... an ideal approach in music of pastoral character.'

Tonal Refinement - Cédric Tiberghien plays Debussy Preludes, reviewed by Bill Newman

Courage and Finesse - A recital by pianist Arisu Nakao, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Sharply Etched - Mozart and Shostakovich from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Pyrotechnic Skills - Lionel Cottet and Louis Schwizgebel-Wang play Beethoven, Schubert, Zanon and Brahms, and impress Bill Newman

Ensemble. Very Moving - A recital by Janine Jansen and Itamar Golan, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Brilliant Throughout - Kirill Karabits conducts the RPO, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Imperious Disdain - Tchaikovsky's 'The Queen of Spades', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Deliciously Bubbly - James Baillieu plays Beethoven, Schumann, Gottschalk and Paganini via Liszt, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Innermost Passions - Ralph Kirshbaum and Shai Wosner play Beethoven, Janácek, Brahms and Schumann, enjoyed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Special Musical Connections - Bill Newman attends a fundraising concert for the Raphael Sommer Foundation

CD Spotlight. Delights Galore - Lyapunov's piano music impresses Bill Newman. '... endearing charm.'

Ensemble. Rapturous Praises - Yasmin Rowe, Sarah Sew and Tadashi Imai at London's Wigmore Hall, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Neatly Sung - Handel's 'Flavio' from English Touring Opera, by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Focussed Sound - The Hallé Orchestra plays Schubert, Dvorák and Beethoven, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Vividly Captured - A piano recital by Richard Uttley, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Bustling Energy - A mainly classical programme from Derby Concert Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Tale of Two Conductors - Robert Anderson attends two orchestral concerts in London

CD Spotlight. Farrago of Fun - The Hoffnung Music Festival Concert, recommended by Howard Smith. '... though these show their age, the sound remains adequate.'

Ensemble. Energy and Grandeur - Derby Cathedral Choir celebrates the anniversary of William Boyce, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Dance Rhythms - A visit from the Moscow Philharmonic, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Clarity of Expression - Yasmin Rowe plays for the Keyboard Charitable Trust, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Seated on a Cloud - Vadim Gluzman and the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Vassily Sinaisky, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Intense and Believable - Handel's 'Xerxes', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Little Bit of Magic - Purcell's 'The Fairy Queen', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Beautifully Controlled - Mike Wheeler listens to Suk, Dvorák, Ravel and Debussy from the Hallé Orchestra in Nottingham

An Outstanding Evening - Bill Newman listens to American pianist Rorianne Schrade

Ensemble. Beautifully Played - Bill Newman attends two orchestral concerts at London's Royal Festival Hall

CD Spotlight. Imaginative Work - Chamber music by John Veale and Robert Crawford, heard by Patric Standford. '... well managed ...'

Uncommon Joy - Florian Mitrea at London's St Martin-in-the-Fields, heard by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. Superb Realms - Puccini's 'Il Trittico', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Sensitivity and Incisiveness - Enikö Magyar and Timothy End launch Derby Chamber Music's new season, and impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Life-Enhancing - Jonathan Dove's 'Mansfield Park' reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. To the Glory of God - Giuseppe Pennisi visits the Sagra Musicale Umbra, celebrating old and new continents

Ensemble. Finely Balanced - Mike Wheeler listens to Derby Choral Union

Ensemble. Meticulously Handled - The Rivoli String Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Haunting Beauty - Britten song cycles, heard by Robert Anderson. 'Nothing can detract from the magic ...'

Ensemble. Great Delicacy - Mike Wheeler listens to the Hallé Orchestra in Liszt, Schumann and Brahms

Ensemble. Too Clever by Half - A very British version of Mozart's 'Die Entführung aus dem Serail' returns to Rome, experienced by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. A Great Occasion - The Derby Roundhouse debut as a concert hall, described by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Unmissable Talents - An array of artists at London's Wigmore Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Hope for the Future? - Roderic Dunnett experiences Peter Maxwell Davies' new opera 'Kommilitonen!'

Ensemble. Poise and Grace - Bill Newman listens to Emre Engin and Alison Rhind

A Pleasant Evening - Lisa Friend and Mark Kinkaid in recital, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Orchestral Story-telling - Mike Wheeler listens to Strauss, Rimsky-Korsakov and Khachaturian from the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

Variety of Mood - Brahms and Stanford from The Sitwell Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

Confident and Artistic - Thomas Hicks wins first prize in the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe's annual Junior Competition, reported by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. New Ideas - Malcolm Miller enjoys the Meitar Ensemble in concert and reports on the conference 'Art Musics of Israel'

Ensemble. Exuberantly Florid Writing - Mike Wheeler listens to António Teixeira's Te Deum

Depth of Concentration - Stephen Kovacevich plays Beethoven, Schumann and Bach, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Deeply Expressive - Mahler, Weber and Strauss at Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Individual Spirituality - Contemporary music from London's Trinity Laban Conservatoire, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Deeply Satisfying - Outreach work for Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Different Couples - English Touring Opera's 'La Clemenza di Tito', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Perfection Itself - Michail Lifits at London's Wigmore Hall delights Bill Newman

CD Spotlight. Distinct Insights - Dejan Lazic plays Beethoven, heard by Howard Smith. '... a crisp, vernal, excellently deliniated performance ...'

Ensemble. Vigour and Brilliance - The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra plays Adams, Bernstein, Falla and Gershwin, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Real Triumph - The first Milan performance of Britten's 'Death in Venice' impresses Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. An Eclectic Mix - Mieczyslaw Weinberg's 'The Portrait' at Opera North, experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Inside the Music - Mike Wheeler listens to the Czech National Symphony Orchestra

Malcolm Smith (1932-2011) - A celebration, not an obituary, by Bill Newman

Ensemble. The Wizard from Oz - David Arditti attends a celebration for the fiftieth anniversary of the death of Percy Grainger

Ensemble. A Riotous Production - Mark Anthony Turnage's 'Anna Nicole', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Invigorating Performance - The London Mozart Trio impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Zip and Sparkle - Alexandra Dariescu plays Beethoven, Liszt, Chopin and Constantin Silvestri, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Psychological Portraits - Opera North's 'Carmen', experienced by Mike Wheeler

Protect and Survive - Mike Wheeler was at the Annual Conference of the Association of British Orchestras

Ensemble. Full of Irony - Shostakovich's 'The Nose', reviewed by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. High Standards - Bill Newman listens to various artists at London's Wigmore Hall

CD Spotlight. A Strange Choice - Violin concertos by Vivaldi, heard by Howard Smith. '... reliable and persuasive ...'

CD Spotlight. Vital and Committed - Music for string quartet by Janácek and Dvorák , recommended by Robert Anderson. '... an outstanding disc ...'

Ensemble. Fresh and Gleaming - Sinfonia Viva's performance at the 2011 Association of British Orchestras conference impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Stylish and Powerful - Donizetti's 'Belisario', reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Tough Assignment - Michelle Stebleton plays music for solo horn, and Paul Sarcich is impressed. '... both musical and technical satisfaction ...'

CD Spotlight. Delicate Mastery - Orchestral music by Glazunov, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... dashingly done ...'

Ensemble. Consummate Artistry - The Israel Piano Trio, heard by Bill Newman

Absolutely Outstanding - Kotaro Fukuma's performances of Schumann, Chopin and Liszt amaze Bill Newman

Ensemble. Great Sensitivity - The Vienna Tonkünstler Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Instinctive Artistry - Jill Crossland plays Mozart and Beethoven, heard by Howard Smith. '... a distinctive, beautifully considered performance.'

Ensemble. Stunning Musical Performance - Donizetti's 'Lucrezia Borgia', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. For King, Country and Sex - Marco Tutino's 'Senso', experienced by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Full of Delights - Nicola Benedetti and the European Union Chamber Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Deeply Satisfying - Elena Kuschnerova plays J S Bach, selected by Howard Smith. '... decisive and fresh as a dewfall.'

CD Spotlight. Unjustly Neglected - Orchestral tone poems by Boughton and Bainton impress Robert Anderson. '... performed with conviction and sensitivity ...'

Ensemble. Variety within Unity - A special concert dedicated to the music of British composer Ian Stewart, heard by Mary Isaac

Ensemble. Fun with the Slides - Haydn, Shostakovich and Beethoven from The Aves Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beautifully Sung - An evening with Juan-Diego Flórez, by Robert Hugill

Subtly Controlled - Spanish pianist Javier Perianes plays Schubert, Chopin, Debussy and Falla, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Memorable Programme - Bach Cantatas at London's Royal Academy of Music, heard by Malcolm Miller

An Ever-Active Hive - Robert Anderson examines the latest score from Acuta Music

Ensemble. Inspired Artistry - The Israel Piano Trio at London's Wigmore Hall, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

New Year Blues - A roundup of recent London concerts by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Sensitive and Vivid - Laura Isaacson and Patricia Capone, heard by Mary Isaac

CD Spotlight. Elegaic Melancholy - A new recording from Jan Garbarek and the Hilliard Ensemble, exceeds Howard Smith's highest expectations. '... beyond criticism ...'

Real Individuality - Julian Jacobson was at the 2010 Beethoven Intercollegiate Piano Competition

Boundless Energy - Warren Mailley-Smith, heard by Mary Isaac

Ensemble. A Touch of Élan - Héloîse Geoghegan and Michael Joyce, heard by Mary Isaac

Passport to Heaven - Bill Newman listens to the Russian pianist Nelly Akopian-Tamarina

Drama and Poetry - Mary Isaac listens to Russian pianist Olga Stezhko

CD Spotlight. Murder Accomplished - Rutland Boughton's 'The Queen of Cornwall' impresses Robert Anderson. '... a brave attempt ...'

CD Spotlight. Thoughtful and Elegiac - String quartets by David Matthews, recommended by Ron Bierman. 'The performances do full justice to the music.'

Ensemble. Real Spirit - A Christmas offering from Derby Choral Union, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Evident Satisfaction - Mike Wheeler listens to a reconstructed cantata by Neil Garland

Ensemble. Substantial and Astonishing - Robert Hugill listens to sixteenth century Christmas music sung by the Chapelle du Roi

Ensemble. Unfailingly Musical - Mike Wheeler listens to Handel's Messiah from Derby Cathedral

Ensemble. A Good Feel - Christmas music from the Sitwell Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

Authority and Nobility - Elisabeth Leonskaja celebrates Robert Schumann, appreciated by Mary Isaac

Ensemble. Truly Miraculous - The Emerson Quartet, heard by Bill Newman

Highly Impressive - A recital by Michael Ierace, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Spirited Performance - Mike Wheeler listens to Voices and the Derby Concert Orchestra

Vigour and Energy - Benjamin Frith saves the day, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ideally Matched - Malcolm Troup hears 'the art of the piano reborn' in Syrian pianist Riyad Nicolas

CD Spotlight. An Invaluable Recording - The complete solo songs of E J Moeran, heard by Patric Standford. '... beautifully sung ...'

An Eloquent Devotee - Ronald Stevenson's writings on Grainger, read by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Crisp and Lively - Haydn's Creation, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Delightfully Entertaining - Mozart, Schubert and Weill, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A very happy occasion - A promotional recording of Oliver Rudland's 'The Conquests of Zeus', heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Profoundly Satisfying - Cherubini's 'Medée', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Generous Tonal Warmth - Derby Choral Union's Mozart Requiem, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Convincingly Pitched - Britten's 'The Turn of the Screw', heard by Mike Wheeler

Confidently Entertaining - A recital by John Paul Ekins delights Bill Newman

Ensemble. Mix-and-match - Ensembles from the Royal Northern College of Music, heard by Mike Wheeler

Command and Panache - Russian pianist Rustem Kudoyarov, heard by Mary Isaac

Ensemble. Much to Enjoy - Johannes Goritzki and Julian Jacobson at London's Royal College of Music, heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Great Vitality - Verdi's 'Don Carlo', heard by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Finely Shaped - Gounod's 'Roméo et Juliette', heard by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Very Rewarding - The Derwent Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

Interpretative Approaches - A recital by Lars Vogt impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Vividly Projected - Richard Roddis and Beate Toyka perform Robert Schumann, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Searing Eloquence - A centenary performance of Elgar's Violin Concerto, heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Glowing Performance - The Sitwell Singers begin a new season, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Liquid Finger-work - Mike Wheeler listens to a piano recital by Cordelia Williams

Ensemble. Incisive Energy - Music-making by Natalie Clein and Sinfonia Viva, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Total Commitment - Bart's Choir's Verdi Requiem, heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Superb Pianism - A London recital by Julian Jacobson, heard by Robert Anderson

A Golden Treasury - Havergal Brian on European and American music, read by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Better Late than Never - The BPSE Late Summer Festival, attended by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. Highly Dramatic - The Wihan Quartet at Kings Place, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. A Blistering Whirlwind - More from the Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Flying Colours - A piano recital by Theresia Renelt, appreciated by Mary Isaac

Ensemble. Growing Up - Hans Werner Henze's 'Pollicino' thrills children and adults in Florence, by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Most Memorable - A recital by Soojin Han and Tadashi Imai impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fine Performances - Mike Wheeler listens to James Rippingale, Jonathan Trout and the Derby Concert Orchestra

Ensemble. An Apt Mix - Alena Baeva, Terje Mikkelsen and The Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra of Moscow Radio, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Gripping Intensity - Verdi's 'Macbeth' at New Zealand Opera impresses Howard Smith

CD Spotlight. Haste or Speed - J S Bach gamba sonatas, heard by Robert Anderson. '... sensitive and very musical.'

Ensemble. Highly Effective - Bax, Chopin and Prokofiev from Artur Pizarro, Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Surrealist in Language - The homogeny of Jonathan Harvey, investigated by Jennifer Paull. '... superbly interpreted ...'

Ensemble. Strongly Musical - Handel's 'Radamisto' at the London Coliseum, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Superb from the word 'go' - Donizetti's last Tudor Queen returns to Rome, and Carmela Remigio enchants Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Firmly in Period - Grange Park Opera's 'Madama Butterfly', reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Vocal Colour - Simon Keenlyside sings Schubert, Wolf, Fauré and Ravel, heard by Robert Anderson. '... a wondrous variety ...'

Ensemble. Very Welcome - Robert Hugill experiences Stephen Oliver's 'Euridice'

Ensemble. Hugely Satisfying - As New Zealand arts funding strikes a sour note, Howard Smith listens to the Vector Wellington Orchestra

Ensemble. Intensely Gripping - Bizet, Richard Strauss and Vaughan Williams from Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Unmitigated Fun - Covent Garden at the cinema, experienced by Maria Nockin

Beautifully Subtle - Bobby Chen launches Derby Chamber Music's new season, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Wondrous Variety - Piano music by Chopin and Liszt, heard by Robert Anderson. '... Dominic Piers Smith survives not only intact but triumphant ...'

Ensemble. Bravura Performance - A piano recital by Anthony Hughes, heard by Mary Isaac

CD Spotlight. Marvelously Incisive - Rózsa and Korngold violin concertos, recommended by Howard Smith. '... breathtaking virtuosity from soloist and orchestra alike.'

CD Spotlight. Firstrate Ensemble - Accompanied harpsichord sonatas by Charles Avison, recommended by Robert Anderson. '... both brilliant and sensitive ...'

Majesty, Moment and Control - Ben Bloor's concluding recital for Derby Cathedral's 2010 summer organ series impresses Tony Westerman

DVD Spotlight. Forthright Tempos - The Wihan Quartet plays Beethoven, heard by Howard Smith. '... little to truly set their work apart ...'

CD Spotlight. Matchless Artistry - The Wihan Quartet plays Dvorák, recommended by Howard Smith. '... the finest of bravura chamber performances.'

Profile. With Perfection in Mind - Bill Newman talks to all four members of the Wihan Quartet

CD Spotlight. Clear Tonal Focus - Music for cello and piano by Krzysztof Meyer, recommended by Patric Standford. '... fine playing ...'

CD Spotlight. A Vigorous Spirit - Music by Matthew Taylor, heard by Patric Standford. '... skill and personality in equal measures ...'

Liszt with Languid Ease - Christopher Herrick at Derby Cathedral, heard by Tony Westerman

CD Spotlight. Quite Orgiastic - Petrenko conducts Shostakovich, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... very much on the ball ...'

Ensemble. Airborne Fingers - A BPSE lunchtime recital by Harvey Dagul and Isobel Beyer, praised by Malcolm Troup

Highly Characterful - Tom Corfield plays Whitlock, Howells, Messiaen, Bach and Peeters, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Truly Fascinating - A Santa Fe Opera digest, including the recent Kaye Edition of 'The Tales of Hoffmann', by Maria Nockin

CD Spotlight. Striking Originality - Piano music by Moscheles, Mendelssohn and Schumann, heard by Robert Anderson. '...Todd Crow deserves unstinted gratitude.'

CD Spotlight. A Worthy Introduction - Song cycles and chamber music by Gareth Walters, heard by Patric Standford. '... deserves a firm place in the CD library.'

A Vigorous Account - Peter Gould at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Incisive Playing - Daniel Hyde at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Elgar and Bax - A sepia album from World War I, heard by George Balcombe. '... intense emotion, beautifullly replicated ...'

A Performance to Remember - A recital by Emanuel Rimoldi impresses Bill Newman

Ensemble. Impeccable Standards - Bill Newman's pick of June and July concerts at London's Wigmore Hall

CD Spotlight. Strength and Lyricism - Chamber music by Hugh Wood, heard by Patric Standford. '... taut stamina.'

Ensemble. Exquisite Music-making - Miklós Perényi and András Schiff at London's Wigmore Hall, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. A Remarkable Event - Paul Sarcich visits the West Cork Chamber Music Festival

Robustness and Transparency - Francis Jackson plays the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Wondrously Expansive - Ronan Magill's recital at London's Wigmore Hall impresses Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Real Poise - Sinfonia Viva at the Buxton Festival, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Linear Clarity - Julian Jacobson's Wigmore Hall recital impresses Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Gentle Passions - Music by John Jeffreys, heard by Patric Standford. '... beautifully paced ...'

Ensemble. Deft Stagecraft and Virtuosity - Bloch and Israeli Music, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Indulging in Forbidden Consecutives - Mastersingers at the BBC Proms, reviewed by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Limpid Clarity - 'The Barber of Baghdad' by Peter Cornelius, experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Family Life - A Bernstein double bill at Buxton, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Sensitively Played - A recital by Stephen Disley, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Small Masterpiece - Richard Rodney Bennett's 'All the King's Men' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Political Overtones - George Benjamin's 'Into the Little Hill', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Rather Quirky - Massenet's 'Manon' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Terrific Pace and Direction - Verdi's 'Luisa Miller' at the Buxton Festival, recommended by Mike Wheeler

Scholarship and Humour - Simon Lindley opens Derby Cathedral's summer season of organ recitals, reviewed by Tony Westerman

Ensemble. Young Purity - A Covent Garden 'Salome' revival, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Pure Magic - Opera North's 'Rusalka', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Special Praise - Bizet's 'Carmen' at Kentish Opera, enjoyed by Pippa Hare

Ensemble. Sisters Under the Skin - Donizetti's 'Maria Stuarda' at Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

DVD Spotlight. A Glorious Time - Purcell's 'The Fairy Queen', recommended by Robert Anderson. '... tender expression and all requisite vim.'

Ensemble. Puzzling and Frustrating - Mozart's 'Idomeneo' at English National Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Total Confidence - Sinfonia Viva's summer schools project, 'Floratorio', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Spellbinding Artistry - Jonathan Plowright plays Chopin, recommended by Howard Smith. '... positively hair-raising.'

Ensemble. Contemporary Resonance - Grange Park Opera's 'Capriccio', enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Bewildering Variety - 'The Love of Three Oranges' at Grange Park Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Colourful and Large Scale - Francesca Zamballo's production of 'Carmen', reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Programmatic Titles - Piano music by John Pitts, heard by Patric Standford. 'The performances by Steven Kings are excellent ...'

Ensemble. Great Fun - The Hallé Orchestra ends Nottingham's orchestral season, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Grandest Lines - Donald Tovey's cello concerto, heard by Robert Anderson. '... satisfyingly masterful.'

Ensemble. Intelligent and Satisfying - English National Opera's new production of 'Tosca', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Neatly Balanced - A City Lit music gala, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Great Abilities - Piano trios by Donald Tovey, heard by Robert Anderson. '... diatonic convictions ...'

CD Spotlight. Cosmic Distance - Choral music from Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, recommended by George Balcombe. '... such clarity ...'

Stimulating Fare - Eugene Alcalay plays Bartók, Dutilleux and Beethoven, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Airy Textures - Handel's 'Judas Maccabaeus', heard by Robert Anderson. '... the choral mood is everything.'

Ensemble. Pushing Back the Boundaries - London Sinfonietta's 'British Experiments', reviewed by Chris Graham

Ensemble. The Real Thing - Spanish music from the Hallé Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Serious Fun - Lynn Norris looks back at the life of composer, conductor and pianist Aubrey Bowman

Ensemble. A Unifying Mood - A new song cycle by Julian Dawes, heard by Malcolm Miller

DVD Spotlight. A Little Wizardry - Purcell's 'Dido and Aeneas', recommended by Robert Anderson. '... the playing is stylish and alert throughout.'

Ensemble. Vivid Contrasts - Mike Wheeler listens to Pinchas Zukerman and the Royal Philharmonic

Ensemble. Love's Eternal Empire - Music by Janácek and Suk impresses Bill Newman

Ensemble. A Cross Section - Bill Newman comments on some recent concerts at London's Wigmore Hall

Ensemble. Museum Culture? - Experimental music by Cage, Cowell, Feldman, Rzewski, Satie and Wolff, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. An Ideal Balance - An evening with the Northern Sinfonia and friends delights Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Atmosphere is Everything - Weber's 'Der Freischütz', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Delightful Contributions - Nicholas Kok conducts Sinfonia Viva, heard by Mike Wheeler

Winning Ensembles - Malcolm Miller was at the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe Chamber Music Competition

Deeply Expressive - Helen Cha plays John Mackenzie, Bach, Haydn and Chopin, heard by Mike Wheeler

A Genuine Beethoven Pianist - Simon Watterton gives a lunchtime recital in London, heard by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. Smiling Poise - Derby Chamber Music ends its season on a high, reported by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Sensitive Account - Choral music by Rossini, Elgar and Handel, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Thoroughly Impressed - Maria Nockin talks to baritone Alan Opie, who is about to sing Germont for San Diego Opera

Ensemble. Seldom Performed - 'Lulu' lands at La Scala, by Giuseppe Pennisi

Ensemble. Distinctive Fervour - Music for Holy Week sung by the Chapelle du Roi, heard by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Beautifully Realised - Haydn, Poulenc, Szymanowski and Walton, sung by Derby Bach Choir and the girl choristers of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Wide-ranging Discourse - Sinfonia Viva plays Beethoven, Anna Meredith, Nico Muhly, Ravel and Schumann, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A New Path - Music by Oliver Rudland, heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Boldly Programmed - Music by Antonín Tucapský, Petr Eben and Vaughan Williams, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Huge Fun - J S Bach and a single popping cork, heard by Howard Smith. '... riven with eccentricities ...'

Ensemble. A World-class Orchestra - Mike Wheeler listens to the Bergen Philharmonic

Ensemble. Power and Expressiveness - Janácek's 'Katya Kabanova', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Soulful Intimacy - A concert by Yasmin Levy lingers in Malcolm Miller's memory

Ensemble. Fine Tone - Derby Grammar School and High School Choral Society, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Highly Imaginative - Sinfonia Viva's schools residency concert, attended by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Splendid Richness - Music from Goldsmiths Chamber Choir and Brass Ensemble, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Wholly Serious - Handel's 'Tamerlano' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Beautifully Turned - Horn trios by Lennox Berkeley, Jeremy Thurlow and Haydn impress Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Enjoyable Evening - Opera North's 'Ruddigore', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Strong Performances - Donizetti's 'Don Pasquale', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Celebrating in Style - Derby Concert Orchestra's sixtieth birthday, with Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sense of Purpose - Beate Toyka and Thomas Solzbacher celebrate Chopin, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ask Alice - On the benefits of singing, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ninety Stars are Born - Giuseppe Pennisi tours Austria with a young Italian symphony orchestra

Ensemble. Beautifully Expressive - The Isolani Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Crisp Performance - 'Belshazzar' at the London Handel Festival, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Wilfully Distorted - Petrenko conducts the RLPO, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fine Drama - Chelsea Opera Group's 'La Traviata', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Black Comedy - Prokofiev's 'The Gambler' impresses Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Splendidly Imaginative - Julian Jacobson and Meng Yang Pan celebrate Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year, enjoyed by Mary Isaac

Ensemble. A Hyperrealistic Setting - Robert Hugill has some reservations about Jonathan Miller's 'L'elisir d'amore'

Ensemble. Crisp and Energetic - Ilya Gringolts, Sinfonia Viva and André de Ridder, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Shattering Conviction - Mike Wheeler listens to Markus Stenz and the Hallé in music by Colin Matthews and Mahler

Ensemble. Something Magical - Andris Nelsons conducts the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. In Full Voice - Britten's 'St Nicolas' at Canterbury Cathedral, enjoyed by Pippa Hare

CD Spotlight. Fifty Years - Celebrating Lyrita's recordings of British music, by George Balcombe. '... a meticulous reproduction of orchestral sound ...'

Ensemble. Sparks Really Flew - Mike Wheeler listens to the Denner Ensemble

Mature and Considered - Stephen Savage plays Beethoven, heard by Julian Jacobson

Ask Alice - On the craziness of worldwide auditions, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

DVD Spotlight. A Rarity - Jonathan Dove's 'The Adventures of Pinocchio', reviewed by Howard Smith. '... considerable merits on display ...'

CD Spotlight. A Forthright Approach - J S Bach's St Matthew Passion, recommended by Howard Smith. '... the Ex Cathedra performance is a triumph.'

DVD Spotlight. Unfailing Energy - Bartók's Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion, welcomed by Patric Standford. 'The video reveals Solti's benign authority ...'

CD Spotlight. Great Poise - Petrenko conducts Shostakovich symphonies, recommended by Paul Sarcich. '... care and thoughtfulness ...'

CD Spotlight. Lovely Accounts - Chamber music by Robert Schumann, heard by Howard Smith. '... the performances suffer from a worrying anemia ...'

Magnificent Scholarship - Robert Hugill reads the new Cambridge Handel Encyclopaedia

CD Spotlight. Miniaturist Skills - Music by Carey Blyton, heard by Patric Standford. '... a delight for both performer and listener.'

Ensemble. Crisp and Stylish - Derby Choral Union performs Handel's 'Messiah', enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

DVD Spotlight. Attractive and Skilful - Royal Opera's 'Hansel and Gretel', recommended by Patric Standford. '... a first class cast ...'

Ensemble. Verve and Flair - Derby Concert Orchestra plays film music, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Vividly Characterised - Mike Wheeler listens to the Sitwell Singers

Ensemble. Dancing in the Air - Mary Isaac enjoys a concert of music from Latin America

Charismatic and Inspiring - Lynn Norris talked to the late Roy Budden about his life with music

World-ranking Pianism - Malcolm Troup marvels anew at the artistry of Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. A Particular Pleasure - Christine Brewer sings Wagner, enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Consistently High Standard - Julian Jacobson reports from the 2009 Beethoven Intercollegiate Piano Competition

Ensemble. Tremendous Gusto - The Derby Bach Choir joins the 'Sing Hallelujah' project, reported by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Impressive Singing - Vocal and choral music by Cecilia McDowall, heard by Patric Standford. '... attractive, lyrical and sometimes forceful ...'

Ensemble. Invigorating Performance - Sinfonia Viva plays Judith Weir, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Discoveries Ahead - Malcolm Miller samples 'The World of Jewish Music' in London

CD Spotlight. Crossing Boundaries - Historical English Christmas music, heard by Howard Smith. '... sheer "joie de vivre" ...'

Ensemble. Particularly Effective - Mozart's 'Così fan tutte', heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Warmth and Richness - Massenet's 'Werther', heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Really On Form - A concert by the Derby Bach Choir, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Style and Drama - Gluck's 'Alceste', heard by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Mice in the Manger - A selection of Christmas music, enjoyed by George Balcombe. '... an amazing collection.'

Ensemble. A Sparkling Concert - Sabbath music from the Zemel Choir, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Quirky Opera - Mike Wheeler experiences Janácek's 'The excursions of Mr Broucek'

Ensemble. A Fascinating Anthology - Music on the theme of angels, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Finely Controlled - A concert by the Polish National Radio Symphony, heard by Mike Wheeler

Refreshingly Imaginative - A recital by Helen Reid impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Too Good to Miss - Robert Hugill was at the first night of Tchaikovsky's 'The Tsarina's Slippers' at Covent Garden

Ensemble. Much Praise - 'Orpheus in the Underworld' from Kentish Opera, reviewed by Pippa Hare

CD Spotlight. A Superb Work - Thomas Arne's 'Artaxerxes', heard by Robert Anderson. 'Roy Goodman and his team give their all ...'

Ensemble. A Bold Piece - Jonathan Dove's 'Swanhunter', reviewed by Patric Standford

CD Spotlight. Boisterous Energy - Vaughan Williams' piano concerto, heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Highly recommended ...'

A Model of Clarity - A new score of Elgar's 'Mina', appraised by Robert Anderson

CD Spotlight. Highly Challenging - Music for unaccompanied violin, heard by Howard Smith. '... searching performance ...'

Ensemble. Vivid and Enlivening - Donizetti's 'Maria di Rohan', reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Lyric Warmth - Jennifer Larmore sings Barber, Berlioz, Ravel and Britten, recommended by Howard Smith. '... a compelling disc ...'

Ensemble. A Cogent Argument - Mike Wheeler listens to Stephen Johnson and the BBC Philharmonic

CD Spotlight. Splendidly Performed - Baroque music for cello, recommended by Howard Smith. 'An exemplary CD ...'

CD Spotlight. A Stimulating Recital - Contemporary music for oboe and ensemble, heard by Patric Standford. '... a wide range of interest.'

Ensemble. Strong Performances - Handel's 'Susanna' from Les Arts Florissants, assessed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Passionate Commitment - Victoria's 'Missa Gaudeaumus', welcomed by Robert Anderson. '... a joyous celebration ...'

Ensemble. A Virtue of Necessity - Robert Hugill was at English Touring Opera's 'Alcina'

Ensemble. Life-enhancing - Mike Wheeler listens to the Atrium Quartet

Ensemble. A Nice Blend - Mendelssohn, Haydn and Beethoven from the Derby Concert Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Dark and Serious - Robert Hugill was at English Touring Opera's 'Tolomeo'

CD Spotlight. A Rare Collection - The collected 78rpm recordings of Peter Warlock, heard by Patric Standford. '... some interesting and revealing performances.'

Ensemble. An Enthralling Performance - Robert Hugill reviews Handel's 'Flavio'

Ensemble. Profoundly Beautiful - William Christie's 'Dido and Aeneas' impresses Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Inexorable Momentum - Music by Dvorák, Rachmaninov and Sibelius from Sergio Tiempo, Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Buoyancy and Lyricism - Derby Cathedral Choir celebrates four composer anniversaries, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Jaw-Dropping Technique - Sharon Bezaly plays Gubaidulina, Beamish and Takano, recommended by Ron Bierman. '... a beautiful tone at any volume in any octave ...'

Ensemble. A Classy Show - Pimlico Opera's 'Rigoletto', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Alert Playing - A recital for oboe and harp, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Deeply Felt - Verdi's 'Don Carlo' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Particularly Memorable - Elgar, Rachmaninov and Sibelius from the Hallé Orchestra, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Nicely Judged - A recital by harpist Anneleen Lenaerts impresses Mike Wheeler

Arts and the Colour of Politics - Béla Hartmann muses on growing social equality and democratization

Ensemble. Perfectly Measured - Bill Newman listens to Aldo Ciccolini

Ensemble. Expertly Structured - Mike Wheeler was at a song recital by Richard Roddis and Philip Robinson

Ensemble. Sterling Performances - Donizetti's 'Linda di Chamounix', heard by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Brilliant Opportunities - A Rossini double bill, reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Imaginative and Challenging - Music by Philip Wilby, heard by Patric Standford. 'Nothing stands still for long ...'

Ensemble. The Boys - Bill Newman was at Nettle and Markham's thirtieth anniversary recital

Ask Alice - On statistics, surveys and rock groups networking and the guitar, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ardent Charms - Bill Newman reviews two recitals by pianist Igor Tchetuev

DVD Spotlight. Extreme Individuality - A film about Delius, seen by Paul Sarcich. '... a commendable breadth.'

CD Spotlight. Exceptional Assurance - J S Bach organ sonatas, heard by Howard Smith. '... an immensely satisfying conclusion.'

Bizarre Perception - Alistair Hinton discusses a recent article on English music by David Hamilton

Ask Alice - On location, social networking and the guitar, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Outstanding and unforgettable - Lilya Zilberstein's recital at London's Wigmore Hall impresses Bill Newman

An Invigorating Performance - Paul Hale provides a fitting end to Derby Cathedral's summer organ series, and Mike Wheeler was there

Ensemble. Sing ye to the Lord - Roderic Dunnett was at the 2009 Hereford Three Choirs Festival

Convincingly Handled - Tom Corfield plays the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ask Alice - On orchestral horn solos and funding cuts, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Unity of Conception - Malcolm Troup was at the BPSE Summer Festival in London

Balancing Act - Beethoven in E flat, with Julian Jacobson and friends

Highly Effective - Peter Gould helps celebrate the seventieth anniversary of Derby Cathedral's Compton Organ, as noted by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Suite Brolga - Music of David Salisbury at the 2009 Australian Festival of Chamber Music, reported by Malcolm Tattersall

A Liquid Lunch - A recital by Evelyne Berezovsky, heard by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. Compelling Performance - Members of Psappha at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Lively Characterisation - An organ recital by Ian Tracey, heard by Mike Wheeler

Marvelously Gifted - Bill Newman listens to pianist Alexander Romanovsky

Ask Alice - On rites of passage, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Effectively Projected - York Minster's Robert Sharpe plays the organ at Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Faultless Performances - Beethoven from The Nash Ensemble, welcomed by Howard Smith. '... a class of its own.'

Thoughtfulness of Approach - A recital by Australian pianist Jayson Gillham, reviewed by Bill Newman

A Dexterous Journey - Alessandro Taverna at London's Steinway Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

A Real Find - Robert Davies made a remarkable impact when he stood in as Papageno late in the run of English Touring Opera's 'The Magic Flute'; Roderic Dunnett profiles him and celebrates the progress of other ETO cast members

Ensemble. A Magisterial Presence - William Christie conducts Purcell's 'The Fairy Queen', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Cumulative Weight - Mike Wheeler listens to Peter Williams at the organ of Derby Cathedral

Ask Alice - On classical music in London's Royal Albert Hall, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Making a Real Fuss - Robert Hugill looks forward to English Touring Opera's HandelFest this autumn

Ensemble. A Slow-burn Approach - 'The Lighthouse' by Peter Maxwell Davies, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Sparkling Account - The Kanazawa-Admony Piano Duo pays tribute to Carola Grindea, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Grippingly-staged - Mike Wheeler is delighted to be surprised by Donizetti's 'Lucrezia Borgia'

Ensemble. Buoyant and Fresh - André Messager's 'Véronique' delights Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Full Rein - Sinfonia Viva at the Buxton Festival, heard by Mike Wheeler

Clear Detail - Mike Wheeler listens to organist Matthew Owens at Derby Cathedral

Ensemble. Elemental Music - Malcolm Miller listens to music-theatre works by Harrison Birtwistle

A Useful Survey - Thomas May's 'The John Adams Reader', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Different Sort of Beauty - Janácek's 'The Cunning Little Vixen', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Splendidly Varied - Thomas Trotter at the organ of Derby Cathedral, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Thought-provoking - Music by Harle and Maxwell Davies, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Thrilling Performance - Verdi's Requiem from Derby Bach Choir, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

A Natural Aristocrat - 'Cardus - Celebrant of Beauty' by Robin Daniels, reviewed by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Commitment and Energy - 'The Fragile Shell' amazes Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Another Treat - Martinu's 'Mirandolina' at Garsington Opera, by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. A Compelling Portrait - Verdi's 'Don Carlos' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Focused Intensity - Purcell and MacMillan from The Sixteen, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Heady Delight - Shostakovich's operetta 'Moskva, Cheryomushki', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Excellent Throughout - A lunchtime piano recital by Maiko Mori, heard by Bill Newman

CD Spotlight. Deceptive Naturalness - Red Priest's 'Nightmare in Venice', entertains Howard Smith. '... irrepressible, chic ...'

CD Spotlight. Essentially Lyrical - Hindemith viola sonatas, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... a committed and convincing performance throughout.'

Ensemble. A Poignant Question-mark - Opera North's 'Abduction from the Seraglio', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sonic Imagination - Mike Wheeler listens to Horses Brawl

Ensemble. Refreshing Surprises - A concert in London by the Zemel Choir, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Actually Sung - Weill and Brecht's 'Threepenny Opera', reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. A Real Work-out - Jane Parker-Smith at the organ of St Gudula, Rhede, enjoyed by Kelly Ferjutz

Ensemble. Student Life and Love - Puccini's 'La bohème' from Kentish Opera, enjoyed by Pippa Hare

Ensemble. Dramatic and Responsive - Verdi's 'Simon Boccanegra' from Chelsea Opera Group, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Notable Success - Grange Park Opera's 'Norma', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ask Alice - On children, competitions and TV, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Refreshing Contrasts - Malcolm Miller reports from the 2009 BPSE Chamber Music Competition

CD Spotlight. Highly Engaging - Emma Johnson plays Bernstein, Copland and Dankworth, recommended by Ron Bierman. '... outstanding performances ...'

DVD Spotlight. Superlative Music - Mozart's 'Don Giovanni', reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... the flames are formidable ...'

CD Spotlight. In Calm and Storm - John Hardy's 'Blue Letters from Tanganyika', reviewed by Howard Smith. '... colorful, filmic, and open to pleasurable listening ...'

Ensemble. Refreshingly Different - Mike Wheeler listens to the Prague Symphony Orchestra

A Symbol of Peace - Howard Smith comments on Alberto Portugheis' recent publication

Ensemble. Coherently Brilliant - Robert Hugill was at the opening performance of English National Opera's 'Peter Grimes'

Caressing Hands - Andrejs Osokins at London's St Martin-in-the-Fields, heard by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. Intensity of Playing - Robert Hugill was at the start of Endymion's 30th birthday celebrations

Ask Alice - On employment in music, insanity, rottweilers and the European Union, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Record Box. An Inspired Creation - Music by Jonathan Little, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Exciting Results - A new partnership between Charles Dutoit and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, experienced by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Unique Sonorities - Britten's Peter Grimes, heard by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. A Deft Touch - Mendelssohn and Kurt Weill from Sinfonia Viva, with no complaints from Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sometimes Impressive - Bellini's 'Norma' from English Touring Opera, heard by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. An Eloquent Performance - Music from the Richard Roddis Singers and the Helix Ensemble, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Declamatory Eloquence - Mendelssohn, Haydn and Shostakovich from the Navarra Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. An Invaluable Addition - Chamber music by Brian Ferneyhough, heard by Patric Standford. '... strong and committed performances ...'

CD Spotlight. A Distinctive Voice - Music by Vincent d'Indy, recommended by Robert Anderson. 'The eloquent solo viola of Lawrence Power is crucial ...'

Ensemble. New Colours - Leslie Anne Lewis conducts a new chamber ensemble arrangement of Bloch's Sacred Service, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Perfection - Benjamin Britten folksong arrangements, recommended by Howard Smith. '... this release is worth several times it's weight in gold.'

Ensemble. Notable Liveliness - 'Jephtha' at the London Handel Festival, heard by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Superb Team - Haydn, Mendelssohn, Beethoven and Tchaikovsky from Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Highly Resourceful - Mike Wheeler listens to a new work by Richard Roddis

Ensemble. Humanity and Generosity - Malcolm Miller attends a memorial concert for David Sonin

Ensemble. Simply Magical - Mike Wheeler listens to Haydn, Sibelius and Mendelssohn played by the Hallé Orchestra

Ensemble. Expert Playing - Music for voices and brass, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Vigorous and Declamatory - Sacha Grynyuk plays for Derby Chamber Music, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sheer Exuberance - Elizabeth Watts and Derby Choral Union, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Full of Vitality - Glinka, Tchaikovsky and Schubert from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Tremendous Conviction - Mahler's Symphony No 2 in Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Quite a Charmer - 'Alessandro' at the London Handel Festival, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Something Different - Rossini's opera 'Ermione', reviewed by Robert Hugill

An Unexpected Treasure - Jeanette Hanscome talks to author Helen Martens about her new book 'Felix Mendelssohn: Out of the Depths of His Heart'

Record Box. Wonderfully Auspicious - Haydn from the Florestan Trio, reviewed by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. An Involving Performance - Brahms' German Requiem, sung by the Derwent Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fire in its Belly - Lothar Zagrosek conducts the Konzerthausorchester, Berlin, heard by Mike Wheeler

The Piano Spoke - A recital by Dora de Marinis, reviewed by Gustav Schiller

Ensemble. Luxurious Textures - Sacred music from the Phoenix Chorale, heard by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. A Worthy Feast - Christopher White and Melanie Reinhard at London's Foundling Museum, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Talented Youth - Malcolm Miller was at the 2009 Beethoven Junior Intercollegiate Piano Competition

Easy Grace - Martyna Jatkauskaite plays Mozart and Schumann, enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Complete Success - An evening long retelling of the 'Romeo and Juliet' story, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Crisp and Incisive - English Touring Opera's 'Magic Flute', enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Piquant Contrast - Music by Fauré and Poulenc, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Winning Freshness - Music by Bach, Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn, Mozart and Wagner, played by Sinfonia Viva, and heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Compositional Mastery - Maxwell Davies' Naxos Quartets 9 and 10, applauded by Howard Smith. '... much to admire ...'

CD Spotlight. Sovereign Horn Territory - Music for horn and orchestra, recommended by Howard Smith. '... stunning breath control and consummate understanding ...'

Ensemble. Nicely Thought-out - The early music ensemble Concert Royal celebrates the Purcell anniversary, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Record Box. Haunted Loneliness - Orchestral music by Benjamin Britten, heard by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Thought-provoking - John Adams' 'Dr Atomic' in London, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Profoundly Satisfying - 'Theodora' at the London Handel Festival, enjoyed by Robert Hugill

A Major Pleasure - A new study score of Elgar's 'Empire March', reviewed by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Elegance and Authority - Leila Josefowicz and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra in Nottingham, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Wonderful Music - The Cardinall's Musick sings William Byrd, recommended by Robert Hugill. '... the scholarship in the set is impressive ...'

Intrinsic Virtue - A concert and Handel exhibition at London's Foundling Museum, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Ineffable - Medieval music by Busnois, Domarto and Pullois, reviewed by George Balcombe. '... profoundly moving.'

Ensemble. Dignity Personified - Apollo's Fire performs 'Dido and Aeneas', enjoyed by Kelly Ferjutz

Ensemble. Operatic Passions - Francesco Cilea's 'Adriana Lecouvreur', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Lucidity and Conviction - Karis Stretton plays Messiaen, impressing Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Rich Sound - Handel's 'Samson', enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Beautifully Handled - Haydn, Dvorák and Lawrie Rose from the Iuventus Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Mixed Bag - Boston String Quartet's 'Xibus', reviewed by Howard Smith. 'What all this signifies is not at all clear.'

Ensemble. A Near-perfect Occasion - Alice McVeigh braves the snow to listen to Fretwork at London's Wigmore Hall

Record Box. Great Beauty - Music by Guillaume Dufay impresses Gerald Fenech

Ensemble. Fresh Energy - Sinfonia Viva begins its Mendelssohn celebrations, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Potent Alchemy - The launch of a new series of Bach Cantatas at London's Royal Academy of Music, heard by Malcolm Miller

Record Box. Fresh and Inspired - Gerald Finzi's 'Dies natalis' rewards Patric Standford

Record Box. Full and Resonant - Violin concertos by Bohuslav Martinu, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. A Wonderful Sound - Mozart's Requiem at Canterbury Cathedral, praised by Pippa Hare

Record Box. Beautifully Performed - Choral music by Pawel Lukaszewski, recommended by Patric Standford

CD Spotlight. A Glistening Treasury - Songs with orchestra from Deborah Riedel, enjoyed by Howard Smith. '... a bounteous seam of unfamiliar, wholly blissful vocal gems ...'

Ensemble. Infectious Enthusiasm - Marc Minkowski and Les Musiciens du Louvre-Grenoble, heard by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. A Healthy Revival - Choral music by Randall Thompson, enjoyed by Howard Smith. '... performances and recording are exemplary throughout.'

Record Box. Dazzling Works - Contemporary music from the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, recommended by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Imaginatively Programmed - Handel arias from the Classical Opera Company, enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Record Box. Stirring Performances - String chamber music by Imogen Holst, recommended by Gerald Fenech

A Stressful Collaboration - Gerard Schurmann describes his involvement with the music score for 'Lawrence of Arabia'

Record Box. Richly Moving - Jamie Walton plays Shostakovich, recommended by Alice McVeigh

Pure Fashion? - Several Composers in Search of an Identity, by Béla Hartmann

Record Box. Admirable Musicianship - Caroline Clemmow and Anthony Goldstone play Chopin and entertain Robert Anderson

Record Box. Entirely Idiomatic - Vaughan Williams from Japan, reviewed by Robert Anderson

Record Box. Magical and Sensitive - A recording by the National Youth Choir of Great Britain inspires Patric Standford

DVD Spotlight. Perfectly Cast - The Sleeping Beauty, recommended by Howard Smith. '... utterly enchanting ...'

Record Box. Unjustly Neglected - Violin concertos by Nikolay Roslavets impress Gerald Fenech

Record Box. Nothing Happens - 'the sound of one', reviewed by Malcolm Tattersall

CD Spotlight. Get Up and Dance - Elizabethan street songs, heard by Maria Nockin. '... plain good listening ...'

Ensemble. Shade and Nuance - Chamber music by Julian Dawes, appreciated by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Complexity of Thought - Eugene Feygelson and Malcolm Troup play Beethoven and Bloch, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Amazing Confidence - Concertos by Handel, reviewed by Robert Hugill. '... the playing here is some of the most incisive that I have heard ...'

Immaculate Blend - Christmas music from the Sitwell Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Shining Confidence - Derby Cathedral Choir's performance of Handel's 'Messiah' invigorates Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Great Agility - The Aquinas Trio plays Haydn, Ravel and Saint-Saëns, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Bold and Inventive - Charles Avison's reworkings of Scarlatti, enjoyed by Robert Anderson. 'Avison's deployment of massed strings is wonderfully effective ...'

Record Box. An Unfolding Cycle - Gergiev conducts Mahler, heard by Patric Standford

Record Box. Unique Timbres - A recording by The Brahms Trio Prague, reviewed by George Balcombe

CD Spotlight. Pride of Place - Piano music by Frank Bridge, praised by Howard Smith. 'A standing ovation for Mark Bebbington ...'

Ensemble. Simply Too Long - Mike Wheeler sits through film scores and Christmas music

Potential and Achievement - The sixteenth Beethoven Intercollegiate Piano Competition, experienced by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. Powerfully Sonorous - Fauré, Bliss, Brahms and Weber played by the Frith Piano Quartet, and reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Masterly Account - Donizetti's 'Parisina d'Este', heard by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Jubilant Energy - The Derby Bach Choir begins its 50th anniversary celebrations, reported by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Curate's Egg - Tangos and fantasies, explored by Howard Smith. '... good in parts.'

Record Box. A Rewarding Experience - Music from The Phoenix Chorale impresses Patric Standford

Ensemble. Compact and Imaginative - Judith Bingham's 'Shakespeare Requiem' receives its first performance, heard by Patric Standford

Ensemble. A Thrilling Performance - Wagner, Mozart and Schubert from Julian Bliss, Andreas Reiner and the Munich KlangVerwaltung, impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Profoundly Moving - English Touring Opera's 'Rusalka', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. In Memory of Hickox - Vaughan Williams' 'Sancta Civitas', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Brilliantly Realised - Bellini's 'I Capuleti e i Montecchi', heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Expressive Warmth - Ruth Palmer plays the Barber Violin Concerto, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

A Welcome Return - Tessa Uys at London's Wigmore Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Lovely Performance - A recital by Bálint Székely and Mariko Kondo, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Tonal Understanding - The Belcea Quartet plays Schubert and Beethoven, enjoyed by Bill Newman

Record Box. Rich Variety - Oboe music by Edwin Roxburgh, heard by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Lively Playing - A concert by Zephyr, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Seeds of Genius - Alberto Portugheis plays Beethoven at London's Foundling Museum, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. A Wonderful Weekend - 'Tosca' and 'Mikado' in Arizona, enjoyed by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. Strength and Toughness - Independent Opera's 'Pelléas et Mélisande' impresses Robert Hugill

Rare Talent - Young Concert Artists Trust recitals, reviewed by Bill Newman

Finely Executed - A Beethoven recital by James Lisney, reviewed by Thomas Bielinski

Ensemble. Inner Calm - Holst and Vaughan Williams from Nottingham, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Dancing Goblins - Music by Bazzini, heard by Howard Smith. '... Hanslip brings it off with suitable aplomb.'

Committed and Tough - Malcolm Troup plays Bloch's Piano Sonata, appreciated by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. A Fascinating Work - The first performance of Gabriel Jackson's Requiem, reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Fascinating Rarities - Taneyev string trios, heard by Julian Jacobson. '... a performance of real commitment and assurance ...'

Ensemble. Nicely Judged - Beethoven, Stravinsky and Weber from The Hallé Orchestra impresses Mike Wheeler

Record Box. A Youthful Composer - Orchestral music by William Alwyn, heard by Patric Standford

DVD Spotlight. Understandably Controversial - Derek Jarman's 'War Requiem', reviewed by Howard Smith. '... cutting room virtuosity.'

Ensemble. A Brilliant Idea - A Bernard Stevens celebration at London's Wigmore Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. A Superb Cast - Rossini's 'Mathilde de Shabran' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

DVD Spotlight. Some point? - Tony Britten's 'new version' of Verdi's Falstaff, reviewed by Robert Anderson. 'Shame on him ...'

DVD Spotlight. Engaging Integrity - Mark Dexter plays Peter Warlock, recommended by Robert Anderson. '... a triumphant success ...'

CD Spotlight. Poetic Lyricism - Tim Hugh and Olga Sitkovetsky at London's Wigmore Hall, enjoyed by Howard Smith. '... breathtaking musicianship captured my attention ...'

Ensemble. Quirky Humour - Uri Caine meets Sinfonia Viva, and Mike Wheeler listens

Ensemble. Deeply Thoughtful - Byrd, Vaughan Williams, Parry and Elgar from the Sitwell Singers, heard by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Second Oscar? - Music by Rachel Portman, reviewed by K C Devereaux. 'Portman's score ably captures the poignancy ...'

Ensemble. An Accomplished Performance - Matthew Moss sings British music, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. High Spirits - Freddy Kempf and the Moscow Philharmonic, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Exhilarating Performance - Tim Lowe plays Haydn, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Very Convincing - Handel's 'Partenope', enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Old and New Worlds - Ioana Osoianu talks to Keith Bramich about her life in the East and West

Ensemble. A Concentrated Distillation - Peter Brook's 'La Tragedie de Carmen', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Delicate Balance - Cavalli's 'La Calisto', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Refreshingly Poetic - Eleftheria Kotzia returns to Derby, and Mike Wheeler listens

Ensemble. Drama and Bite - A concert by the Op 3 piano trio, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Tonal Contrast - A recital by Victoria Simonsen and Simon Lane, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Full of Delights - Handel's 'Parnasso in Festa', recommended by Robert Hugill. '... some truly superb Handel singing (and playing) ...'

Record Box. Wit and Energy - Music for piano and orchestra by Benjamin Britten, enjoyed by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. A Special Pleasure - The Greenwich Trio, heard by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Inner Detail - Beethoven and Tchaikovsky from Petrenko and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Inhibited by Cleverness - 'Cav and Pag' at English National Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Record Box. Beautiful Moments - Mozart wind serenades, reviewed by Malcolm Tattersall

Ensemble. Gloriously Colourful - The British Society of Music Therapy looks back, with Margaret Campbell

Record Box. Vitality and Wit - Piano music and songs by Robin Milford, appreciated by Patric Standford

Ensemble. A Spellbound Audience - The Sixteen at Stour Music, reviewed by Pippa Hare and Rosie Evelegh

Scrupulously Done - Andrew Barnett's 'Sibelius', read by Robert Anderson

Record Box. Joyous Tintinnabulation - The Play of Daniel intrigues and delights Robert Anderson

Ensemble. A Bright Future - Malcolm Miller was at the final night of the 2008 BBC Proms in London

Evocative Canvases - A recital by Miriam Brickman, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Snappily Executed - Jonathan Dove's opera 'Flight' impresses Robert Hugill

Record Box. Many Moods - Orchestral music by Glazunov, recommended by Robert Anderson

Record Box. Joyful Interplay - Corelli from the Purcell Quartet, heard by Alice McVeigh

A Labour of Love - John Suchet's 'The Treasures of Beethoven', read by Howard Smith

Ensemble. Glorious Melody - British Youth Opera's 'La Rondine', reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Other Trumpets - Fascinating electro-acoustic collaborations, reviewed by Malcolm Tattersall. '... individual works are challenging listening but stunningly achieved.'

CD Spotlight. Striking Originality - Chamber music by Roger Smalley, recommended by Howard Smith. '... the performance may be regarded as definitive.'

Youthful Freshness - Gareth Green gives the final organ recital in Derby Cathedral's summer series, and Mike Wheeler was in the audience

Ensemble. Snap and Crackle - The Artemis Quartet plays music by Beethoven, Stravinsky and Schubert, reported by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Simplicity and Eloquence - Quatuor Ebène plays Haydn, Webern and Schubert, reviewed by Bill Newman

A Perfect Joy - Emanuel Ax plays Beethoven and Schumann, and impresses Bill Newman

Ensemble. Restrained Passion - Valeriy Sokolov and Eric Ferrand-N'Kaoua play Bach, Beethoven, Schumann, Enescu and Prokofiev, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Wonderful Mozart - Bill Newman listens to the Razumovsky Ensemble

Ensemble. Rhythmic Drive - Mike Wheeler listens to The Midas Touch Organ Duo

Ensemble. A Wonderful Experience - Maria Nockin visits Santa Fe for operas by Verdi, Mozart, Britten and Handel, plus the first American performance of Kaija Saariaho's 'Adriana Mater'

Thought and Understanding - Wanda Jeziorska finds food for thought in Mishka Momen's latest recital

Much Subtlety - Peter Sutton's play 'Elgar and Alice', read by Robert Anderson

Urgency and Drama - Dora de Marinis plays Beethoven at the Regent Hall Summer Festival, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Dynamic Extremes - Mike Wheeler enjoys Timothy Noon's recital of Bach, Bohm, Dubois, Messiaen and Widor

CD Spotlight. Virtuoso Credentials - Music for viola and piano by York Bowen, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... above praise.'

Ensemble. Highly Charged - A recital by Daniel Kuzmin and Alberto Portugheis, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

An Interesting Programme - An organ recital by Martin Neary, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Force of Nature - The Matsumoto/Jacobson Duo and The Art of Falconry, by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. Any Questions? - Bernstein's 'Candide' at English National Opera, enjoyed by David Wilkins

Lucid Messiaen - Cathy Lamb at the organ, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Amorous Inclinations - Early music from England and France, enjoyed by Kelly Ferjutz

Mightily Impressed - Nikolai Demidenko plays Chopin, enjoyed by Bill Newman

DVD Spotlight. Enchanting - Hérold's 'La fille mal gardée', enjoyed by Robert Anderson. '... Covent Garden at its best.'

Ensemble. Musical Inventiveness - The Gwilym Simcock Trio, enjoyed by Rex Harley

Ensemble. Four Heroes - Mike Wheeler enjoys a multi-player organ recital

Ensemble. Off the Wall - Contemporary opera at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Musical Quintessence - Orchestral music by Leroy Anderson, reviewed by Ron Bierman. '... immediately appealing melodies ...'

Ensemble. Pace and Wit - Albert Lortzing's 'Der Wildschütz', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Propulsive Energy - Sinfonia Viva at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

The Speed Merchant - Jonathan Scott plays the organ of Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

DVD Spotlight. Fortunes in Love - Mozart's 'Mitridate', enjoyed by Robert Anderson. '... marvellous singing throughout ...'

Ensemble. Radiant Lyricism - Victoria Grigorieva and Ekaterina Lebedeva play Beethoven and Ravel, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Extraordinary Clarity - Naji Hakim begins the Derby Cathedral summer organ recital series, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Highly Intelligent - Verdi's 'Don Carlo', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Sustained Intensity - Rex Harley enjoys Janácek's 'The Cunning Little Vixen' at Longborough Festival Opera

CD Spotlight. A Thrilling Experience - Kevin Bowyer plays Alkan, reviewed by Alistair Hinton. '... flawless technique and missionary commitment ...'

Ensemble. No Excuses Necessary - Robert Hugill enjoys Puccini's 'La Fanciulla del West' at Grange Park Opera

Ensemble. Traditional or Radical? - Dvorák's 'Rusalka' at Grange Park Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Bess of Hardwick - Derbyshire celebrates an important sixteenth century figure, by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Attractive Freshness - Celebrations in Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beauty of Line - Andreas Scholl in London, heard by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Thematic Economy - Orchestral music by Albert Roussel, heard by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Profoundly Satisfying - Robert Hugill at English National Opera's 'Der Rosenkavalier'

Ensemble. Stylish and Enjoyable - 'Bluebeard' at Grange Park Opera, experienced by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Essential Lyricism - The violin concertos of Ernö von Dohnányi, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... a very impressive performance.'

Ensemble. A Thrilling Production - Verdi's 'Macbeth' impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sleep and Dreams - Mike Wheeler listens to Britten's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'

Ensemble. Gallic Elegance - Gounod's 'Roméo et Juliette', enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Special Magic - Massenet's 'Cendrillon', enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. An Enjoyable Programme - Chamber music at London's Wigmore Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

A Natural Approach - Alex Kobrin plays Haydn, Beethoven and Chopin, heard by Bill Newman

Ensemble. A Testing Programme - Bill Newman listens to Mayuko Katsumura and Gordon Back

Ensemble. Peak Form - Mike Wheeler finds Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra a joy to hear

Record Box. Particular Sensitivity - Chamber music and songs by William Alwyn, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Poetic Touches - The Russian State Symphony Orchestra plays Musorgsky, Prokofiev and Rakhmaninov, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Power and Delicacy - Beate Toyka plays Grieg's piano concerto, heard by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Tremendous Energy - Mahler and Mozart in Nottingham, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

An Enviable Technique - Matthew Schellhorn's Wigmore Hall début recital, reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Pastoral Pleasures - English music for flute, recommended by Malcolm Tattersall. '... the Tavener alone would justify the purchase ...'

Ensemble. Telling Power - Malcolm Miller attends the final concert in a series devoted to music by banned composers

Good-hearted Buoyancy - Dvorák and Brahms from Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Alun Hoddinott (1929-2008) - John McCabe pays tribute to a friend and colleague

Ensemble. Excellently Contrasted - Mike Wheeler listens to tenor saxophonists Don Weller and Bobby Wellins, backed by a rhythm section and a string quartet from Sinfonia Viva

Ensemble. A Singing Style - Violinist Jack Liebeck makes a short-notice appearance with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Profoundly Satisfactory - English National Opera's new production of 'The Merry Widow', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Exciting Times Ahead - Haydn, Beethoven and Judith Weir from Sinfonia Viva, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Lyrical Spaces - A recital by the Tippett Quartet, heard by Mike Wheeler

Chopin in the Boondocks - Stephen De Pledge returns to New Zealand, by Howard Smith

Ensemble. Worth Discovering - 'Atalanta' at the London Handel Festival, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Real Large Work - Mike Wheeler listens to Alban Gerhardt, Rory Macdonald and the Hallé Orchestra

Wales loses its patriarch - Roderic Dunnett pays tribute to the Welsh composer Alun Hoddinott, who died in March

Penetrating Musical Insight - Evgenia Rubinova plays Chopin with the Orchestra of Opera North in Huddersfield and Leeds, heard by Patric Standford

Record Box. Glorious Textures - Sacred vocal music by Robert Parsons, reviewed by Patric Standford

DVD Spotlight. Spitfire Coloratura - Die Zauberflöte from Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... this admirable DVD is a double first ...'

Prizewinner's Recital - Malcolm Miller applauds Julian Clef at London's Foundling Museum

Record Box. A Welcome Insight - Orchestral music by Charles Camilleri, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. A Mirror of Control - Chelsea Opera Group's 'Macbeth', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Geordie Knees-Up - John Wilson conducts the Hallé Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

All Purpose Pianist - Brazilian Eduardo Monteiro plays at Wigmore Hall and talks to Bill Newman about his varied musical life

Ensemble. A Fascinating Programme - English vocal and instrumental music from Musica Mundi, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Depth and Sonority - The first concert by Malcolm Goldring and the Sitwell Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Triumph - Bach's St John Passion from Derby, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wonderfully Refreshing - Antoni Wit and the Warsaw Philharmonic on tour impress Mike Wheeler

Timings - Both Sides of the Global Fence - James Gardner, by Jennifer Paull

Ensemble. Highly Promising - Rossini, Schubert and Beethoven from the Derby Concert Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Great Fun - More from Sinfonia Viva's school and college residency project, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Excellent Team - Bach's St Matthew Passion from Derby Cathedral, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Great Promise - Malcolm Miller reports from the 2008 Beethoven Junior Intercollegiate Piano Competition

An Enviable Reputation - Mike Brewer and The National Youth Choirs celebrate their 25th anniversary, by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Profoundly Satisfying - Donizetti's 'Anna Bolena' from English Touring Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Wonderfully Inventive - Music and dance on the theme of creation, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Specific Qualities - Michael Hoppé's Requiem, reviewed by Robert Hugill. '... a talented melodist ...'

Musically Thrilling - 'Maria Stuarda' at San Diego Opera, reviewed by Maria Nockin

CD Spotlight. Striking Individuality - Choral music by Cecilia McDowall, reviewed by Howard Smith. '... clarity and conviction.'

Remarkable Scope - On Ronald Stevenson's eightieth birthday, Patric Standford reads Colin Scott-Sutherland's 'Ronald Stevenson: The Man and his Music'

Unflagging Energy - Nicola Meecham plays Haydn, Schubert, Ravel, Prokofiev and Gershwin, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Joyful and Celebratory - Schumann and Strauss from Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Delectably Played - A concert by the Vienna Tonkünstler Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Nicely Caught - A song recital by Richard Roddis and Clive Pollard, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Absurdly Melodramatic - Mike Wheeler catches up with a touring production of 'La Traviata'

Ensemble. Romantic Love? - 'Lucia di Lammermoor' at English National Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Believable Mixture - Mike Wheeler enjoys Jonathan Dove's opera 'The Adventures of Pinocchio'

Ensemble. Expressive Power - Mike Wheeler listens to Natalie Clein and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra

Undermining the Theme? - Malcolm Miller is disappointed by a Barenboim Beethoven recital in London

CD Spotlight. Sweeter than Roses - Amorous music by Purcell inspires Howard Smith. '... glorious song with inspirational accompaniments.'

Ensemble. Faultless Unanimity - A concert by the Roberts Quartet, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Playfulness and Spirit - Mike Wheeler joins the Hallé Orchestra's 150th birthday celebrations

CD Spotlight. A Generous Earful - Peter Dawson favourites from Gregory Yurisch and the Tasmanian Symphony, enjoyed by Howard Smith. '... in this repertoire they hardly miss a trick.'

Ensemble. Rebuilt City - Malcolm Miller enjoys the first performance of Judith Weir's choral-orchestral work, 'Concrete'

A Passionate Commitment - Robert Hugill talks to Bach Choir conductor David Hill about Carl Rütti's new Requiem

Ensemble. Thoughtfulness and Insight - Roderic Dunnett was at Armonico Consort's 'The Marriage of Figaro'

CD Spotlight. Impressive Authority - Piano music by Phillip Ramey, reviewed by Anthony Davie. '... totally sympathetic with Ramey's style.'

Record Box. Splendidly Achieved - Music by Robert Hugill, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Story Telling - Robert Hugill was at London's recent Judith Weir weekend

Ensemble. Lavish Entertainment - 'The Adventures of Pinocchio' by Jonathan Dove and Alasdair Middleton, impresses Patric Standford

Ensemble. Sensitively Attuned - Dvorák, Shostakovich and Tchaikovsky from the Burlington Piano Trio, by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Bounce and Jollity - Derby Bach Choir's cathedral Christmas presentation, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Unexpected Delights - Mike Wheeler listens to The Sitwell Singers

Magnificats and Fantasias - A Christmas programme from Derby Cathedral Choir, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A World of Wonder - Song cycles by John Joubert, recommended by Alice McVeigh. '... a passionate wildness to the piano writing ...'

Record Box. Distinctive and Attractive - 'Snowcarols' and other Christmas music by William Ferris, admired by Patric Standford

Record Box. Spirited Performance - Festive music by Vaughan Williams, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Points of Contact - Choral music by Britten and Finzi from the Derwent Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Plenty of Atmosphere - A festive concert from the Derby Concert Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Oriental Spice - 'A Celebration of Israeli Music', reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Litmus Tests - Malcolm Miller at the fifteenth BPSE Beethoven Intercollegiate Piano Competition

Julian Jacobson - No longer one of British music's best-kept secrets! As reported by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. Lively but Disciplined - Robert Hugill reviews a performance of Donizetti's 'Maria Stuarda'

Editor's Inbox - Another selection of readers' letters

Record Box. Slow and Indulgent - Marin Alsop conducts Brahms, reviewed by Patric Standford

Irresistible Momentum - Alexander Shelley at Sinfonia Viva's helm, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Poignant Sweetness - Sarah Connolly and the Hallé Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Beautifully Judged - Mike Wheeler draws attention to the Lithuanian National Philharmonic Orchestra

Emotional Extremes - Tchaikovsky, Janácek and Schubert from the Iuventus Quartet, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Colour, Energy and Warmth - Mike Wheeler enjoys a performance of the Monteverdi Vespers

Ensemble. Great Delight - Robert Hugill discovers two operas by Elizabeth Maconchy

Ensemble. A Majestic Reading - Mike Wheeler is impressed by Sibelius, Bach and Smetana from Pietari Inkinen and the CBSO

Ensemble. Youthful Talent - Contemporary music from the Guildhall Brass Band, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. New Territory - An unusual version of Puccini's 'Turandot', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A Memorable Concert - Chloë Hanslip, Slatkin and the RPO, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Requiem in Blue - Rex Harley was at Harvey Brough's 50th birthday concert

A Pianistic Firecracker - A lunchtime recital by Tali Morgulis, enjoyed by Malcolm Troup

A Superb Outing - Bellini's 'La Straniera', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Genuine Appreciation - Robert Hugill at a concert by Londinium City Voices

Ensemble. Impressively Balanced - Robert Hugill experiences Handel's opera 'Teseo'

Ensemble. Occasionally Stunning - Robert Hugill at English National Opera's 'The Coronation of Poppea'

Ensemble. Beautifully Realised - Music for flute, viola and harp from The Wakeford Ensemble, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. On Fine Form - Jeremy Hagan and the Derby Concert Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Dramatically Riveting - Maria Nockin at Arizona Opera's 'Lucia di Lammermoor'

Ensemble. Music of Friends - Malcolm Miller attends a concert in London's Great Chamber of the Charterhouse

Warmth and Vigour - Mike Wheeler listens to a recital by the Adelfi Duo

Ensemble. Dispiritingly Unmusical - The Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra of Moscow Radio on tour, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

'Bach the European' - Malcolm Miller attends András Schiff's 2007 RAM Bach Prize Lecture-Recital

Ensemble. Remarkably Paradoxical - Robert Hugill experiences James MacMillan's opera 'The Sacrifice' at Welsh National Opera

Ensemble. Refreshingly Inventive - Julian Bliss, Nicholas Kok and Sinfonia Viva in Nottingham, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Finesse and Subtlety - Orchestral music by Toru Takemitsu, recommended by Mike Wheeler. '... meticulous care for detail ...'

Ensemble. Fresh and Intense - Gluck's 'Iphigénie en Tauride', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Expressive Power - A recital by cellist Tim Hugh impresses Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Rapt and Radiant - Sarah Connolly, The Hallé Orchestra and Mark Elder visit Derby, and Mike Wheeler was in the audience

CD Spotlight. Monumental - Elgar's 'Dream of Gerontius' from Birmingham, appreciated by Patric Standford. '... a rich performance by both chorus and orchestra ...'

Ensemble. Primal Energy - Barenboim and the Vienna Philharmonic play Bartók, Kodály, Enescu and Ligeti

Ensemble. Vibrant Harmony - Shirley Ratcliffe was at Snape Proms to hear The London Adventist Chorale directed by Ken Burton

Ensemble. Brilliantly Engaging - Jirí Antonín Benda's 'Romeo and Juliet', reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Multi-tasking - Peter Gould plays the organ at Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Tony Westerman

In Perfect Balance - Mike Wheeler listens to the last of Derby Cathedral's 2007 summer organ recitals

DVD Spotlight. Haunting Imagery - Tony Palmer tells the story of Shostakovich, reviewed by Howard Smith. '... a landmark among 20th century cinema documents.'

An Extraordinary Showcase - Malcolm Troup was at the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe's annual Summer Festival in London

CD Spotlight. Sheer Enjoyment - Music by Saint-Saëns, reviewed by Howard Smith. 'The LPO is in peak condition ...'

Elgar and Englishness - Alistair Hinton takes issue with Patric Standford's recent 'Provocative Thoughts'

Record Box. Dissonance-Free - John Rutter's 'Mass of the Children', reviewed by Patric Standford

Grand Scale - Mike Wheeler attends summer organ recitals by Tom Corfield and Johan Hermans

Ensemble. Beautifully Judged - Mike Wheeler makes a final visit to the Buxton Festival for Mozart's 'The Marriage of Figaro'

Compelling Effect - Malcolm Archer at the organ of Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Capturing the Essence - Mike Wheeler returns to the Buxton Festival to hear members of Sinfonia Viva

Ensemble. Emotional Degradation - Music Theatre Wales presents Philippe Boesmans' 'Julie', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Conservative or Progressive? - Malcolm Miller attends the historic modern revival of Striggio's sixty-part Mass

Ensemble. Brahms and Jazz - Organist Peter Gould joins forces with The Swingle Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Sheer Delight - Orchestral music by Dvorák, reviewed by Patric Standford. '... vigorous and vital ...'

Provocative thoughts, from Patric Standford - Elgar and England

Beautifully Arranged - 'Antal Doráti and the joy of making music' by Richard Chlupaty, reviewed by Anna L Franco

Ensemble. Two Worlds Bridged - The first performance of Heiner Goebbels' 'Songs of Wars I have Seen', reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Ravishing Beauty - Malcolm Miller enjoys Jonathan Harvey's 'Wagner Dream' at the Holland Festival in Amsterdam

Ensemble. Simply Wonderful - Mozart's 'Il re pastore' at Garsington, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Uniformly Strong - Tobias and the Angel, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Nimbleness and Warmth - The Armonico Consort at the Buxton Festival, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Temperament and Imagination - Alberto Portugheis enjoys a recital by the Romanian-American pianist Eugene Alcalay

Ensemble. Profoundly Moving - Bellini's 'I Capuletti e I Montecchi', enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Richness and Clarity - Ashley Grote opens Derby Cathedral's series of summer organ recitals, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sheer Verve - The Derby Bach Choir sings HMS Pinafore, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Dramatic Effect - Handel's 'Semele' at Grange Park, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Magical - A Stravinsky and Purcell double bill at Opera North, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Classy Performance - Summer with The Derwent Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Absorption of Influences - A revival of Bloch's early C sharp minor symphony, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Names of Allah - Malcolm Miller reflects on a John Tavener first performance

CD Spotlight. Lifting the Spirits - A benefit concert for the Kitezh Children's Community, reviewed by Howard Smith. '... Berkofsky tailors the accompaniments with demonstrable taste and empathy.'

Ensemble. Back to the Future - Cantors in concert at JMI Central, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. A Riveting Evening - Janácek's 'Katya Kabanová', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wonderfully Vivid - Robert Hugill praises Grange Park Opera's production of Prokofiev's 'The Gambler'

Ensemble. A Divine Evening - The London Bridge Ensemble plays Brahms, Beethoven and Schumann, enjoyed by Tau Wey

Ensemble. A Celebratory Feel - Grange Park Opera's 'The Magic Flute', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Beethoven Rules! - Malcolm Troup reports from the recent Annual Beethoven Chamber Music (Duos) Masterclass and Competition at London's Steinway Hall

Ensemble. Sparkling Performances - The Hallé Orchestra plays Colin Matthews, Debussy, Poulenc and Tchaikovsky, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Emotional Extremes - Malcolm Arnold string quartets, reviewed by Ron Bierman. 'I recommend savoring the Maggini's outstanding advocacy ...'

Ensemble. Fine Playing - The Czech National Symphony on tour, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Sordid Ferocity - 'Rigoletto' at the Grand Theatre in Leeds, UK. Patric Standford at the revival of last autumn's sensational production

Ensemble. Taut Austere Passion - Music with a Britten and Auden connection, performed by John Lofthouse and Stephen Rose, and reviewed by Malcolm Miller

A Real Treasure House - Dialogues with and about John Cage, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Strange Bedfellows - 'Les Noces' and 'Dido and Aeneas' at Opera North in Leeds. Patric Standford was at the first night on 5 May 2007

CD Spotlight. A Heady Mix - Havergal Brian's Symphonies 4 and 12, reviewed by Paul Sarcich. '... Adrian Leaper marshals his enormous forces well ...'

Fascinating and Rewarding - Machaut, O'Regan and Brumel from The Orlando Consort and Viva Voce, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Featuring the Flute - A recital by Jeanne Baxtresser, reviewed by Malcolm Tattersall. '... lovely but relatively rarely heard pieces.'

Ensemble. Emotive Power - Roderic Dunnett sings the praises of John Joubert, following the recent première of 'Wings of Faith' in Birmingham UK

Ensemble. Purity of Style - Malcolm Miller enjoys a Piano Circus event in north-west London

Ensemble. Lithe and Springy - The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and the Freiburg Baroque Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Interval Talk - Alistair Hinton comments on Patric Standford's recent 'Provocative Thoughts'

Ensemble. Eloquent Performance - A concert by Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Energy and Playfulness - A concert by the wind players of Ensemble 360 ends Derby Chamber Music's 2006-7 season and satisfies Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Expressive Fervour - Elgar's 'The Music Makers' in Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Record Box. Gentle and Meditative - Music by Peter Dickinson, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Companion Pieces - A Ravel / Puccini double bill, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Delayed Reaction - Sondheim's 'Merrily we roll along', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Real Inspiration - Verse anthems from FifteenB, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Majestic Performance - Martino Tirimo's final 2006 Mozart recital, reviewed by Bill Newman

Vociferous and Delectable - Martino Tirimo plays Mozart, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Drama and Sonority - The Rosamunde Trio plays Dvorák, Fribbins and Beethoven, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Wondrous Colours - Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung play Schubert, Ravel and Stravinsky, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. A Godsend - Heritage Opera's 'La Bohème', reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

An Admirable Book - Alan Riding and Leslie Dunton-Downer's companion to opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Beethoven's Supremacy - The 2007 Beethoven Junior Intercollegiate Piano Competition, reviewed by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. Various Challenges - Music by Trevor Hold, Elgar, Parry, Stanford, Delius and Vivaldi from the Derwent Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Sonorous Feast - Music-making by Cédric Tiberghien, Jirí Belohlávek and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Simply Ravishing - Sakari Oramo and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra play Mahler, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Silvery Tone - A recital by Serena Leader and Gordon Back, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Real Drama - 'Poro' at the London Handel Festival, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Exquisite Finesse - A concert by the Elias Quartet, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Highly Dramatic - Nelly Miricioiu in Bellini's 'Beatrice di Tenda', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Tremendous Urgency - Derby Bach Choir's performance of Handel's 'Messiah', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Much to Enjoy - A concert by the Philharmonia of the Nations, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Exploiting the Unexpected - Handel's 'Orlando' from Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Rich Gutsy Tone - Kala Ramnath and friends meet Sinfonia Viva, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Unstoppable Momentum - Masterpieces from the Austro-Germanic symphonic repertoire played by Derby Concert Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Dramatic Story-telling - A performance of J S Bach's 'St John Passion', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. The Power of Music - Performances of 'The Magic Flute' and 'Orfeo' from Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Which Concerto? - A concert by the European Union Chamber Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Italianate Sparkle - Opera North's 'The Elixir of Love', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Colourful Renditions - Recitals by Denitsa Laffchieva and Evelina Puzaite, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Outstanding Performances - Susan Milan at London's Wigmore Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Magnificent Performance - More reviews from London's Wigmore Hall, from Bill Newman

Ensemble. Creative Heritage - Regrets and remedies, the Wigmore way, by Bill Newman

CD Spotlight. Across the Meadow - British light music, reviewed by George Balcombe. '... a wasteland of clone music.'

DVD Spotlight. Enchanting Mockery - Gilbert and Sullivan's 'The Mikado', reviewed by Robert Anderson. 'Chorus and orchestra under Andrew Greene rollick their way through ...'

Splendidly Sonorous - Sharona Joshua plays a copy of an early piano, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Magical Blend - Malcolm Miller enjoys the Sariel-Ghilione Duo and Yehezkel Braun's new Sonata for Mandolin and Guitar

Ensemble. A Valentine Extravaganza - Julian Jacobson in the first of his orchestral Valentine Extravaganzas, enjoyed by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. Boundaries of the Possible - Malcolm Miller admires Simon Bainbridge's new BBC commission, 'Diptych'

Ensemble. A Light-hearted Approach - Handel's 'Agrippina' at English National Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Stylistic Eclecticism - A concert by the Eden Chamber Orchestra, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Energy and Drama - Handel's 'Messiah' from The Sitwell Singers, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Thrilling Performance - The Moscow State Symphony Orchestra visits Nottingham, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. New Light - A performance by Christian Knapp and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

'Shooting the Pianist'! - The eerie case of a South-American pianistic 'revenant', by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. A Yiddish Winterreise - Malcolm Miller reviews a concert to commemorate Holocaust Day

Ensemble. Fiery Performance - The Hallé Orchestra plays Elgar and Wagner, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Illusion and Intrigue - English Songbooks of the 1700s, reviewed by George Balcombe. '... Baroque charms ...'

CD Spotlight. An Interesting Mix - Sacred treasures, enjoyed by Robert Hugill. '... certainly intoxicating.'

Ensemble. An Impressive Partnership - A recital by Katherine Jenkinson and Alison Farr, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Lithe and Musical - Donizetti's 'La Fille du Regiment', enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Clarity and Honesty - Malcolm Troup's recital at St Martin-in-the-Fields, reviewed by Julian Jacobson

Ensemble. Magical Music Theatre - Patric Standford was at the first night of Opera North's 'The Magic Flute'

Ensemble. Especially Dramatic - Premières by Sheriff and McCabe, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Remarkably Attractive - A rare London concert by Schola Pietatis Antonio Vivaldi, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Record Box. Clear Vividness - The 1751 version of Handel's 'Messiah', reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. A Sense of Evolution - Malcolm Miller at an evening of music and drama celebrating 350 years of Jews in Britain

Record Box. A Welcome Novelty - Seasonal music from Naxos, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. An Absorbing Day - Julian Jacobson reports on the fourteenth BPSE Beethoven Intercollegiate (Senior) Piano Competition

Ensemble. Fluid Phrasing - A Christmas concert by the vocal ensemble 'Aitone', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Without Carols - Renaissance music for Christmas, reviewed by Malcolm Tattersall. '... endless web of glorious sound recorded sound ...'

Ensemble. Music in the Spacing of the Spheres - A spectacular version of Holst's 'The Planets' in Cleveland, reviewed by Kelly Ferjutz

Ensemble. Deeply Involving - Emile de Roubaix and the Maraini Quartet play Mozart, Szymanowski and Brahms, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Splendidly Wide-ranging - The Sitwell Singers' Christmas concert, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Truly Moving - Handel's 'Messiah', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Fizzing Performances - The Derby Concert Orchestra and Chorale in Christmas mood, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Record Box. Meticulously Performed - Songs for children, reviewed by Anna L Franco

Ensemble. Renewal and Revitalisation - Malcolm Miller enjoys the London Jewish Male Choir's 80th anniversary concert

Ensemble. Slav Triumph - Malcolm Troup succumbs to the pzazz of the Burov/Miletic Duo

Ensemble. Energy and Exuberance - Music by Haydn, Karl Jenkins and Vaughan Williams, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Zip and Sparkle? - The Munich Symphony Orchestra on tour, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

A Radiant Performance - Ashley Wass in Derby, assessed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Resplendent Impact - Derby Bach Choir makes its contribution to the Mozart anniversary, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Lovingly Shaped - André de Ridder and Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Transcendental Universality - Celebrating London's multi-ethnic pianism in the elect hands of Ivan Kiwuwa, Mishka Momen and Wu Qian, by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. Passionate Sympathy - Another take on Opera North's 'Peter Grimes', by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An Electrifying Production - Verdi's 'Rigoletto' from Opera North, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Glowing Performance - The Czech Philharmonic on tour, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Record Box. Noble and Poetic - Sequeira Costa plays Chopin, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Something for Everyone - An evening with the Zemel Choir, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. An Entrancing Evening - Handel's 'Orlando' at Sadler's Wells, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Strong and Appealing - Poulenc's 'La voix humaine' at Opera North, reviewed by Patric Standford

CD Spotlight. Achingly Beautiful - Leila Josefowicz plays Shostakovich, recommended by Howard Smith. '... her tightrope assurance is breathtaking.'

Ensemble. Elegant Playing - An eclectic programme by Sinfonia Viva, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Spectacular Portrayal - Opera North's 'Peter Grimes', reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Passion and Commitment - English National Opera's 'Jenufa', appreciated by Robert Hugill

Record Box. Gentle Chromaticism - Music by Orlando Gibbons, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Vividly Dramatic - Monteverdi's 'Orfeo', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Quietly Compelling - The Coull Quartet plays Haydn, Shostakovich and Beethoven, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Mature Technique - Alina Pogostkina with Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Light and Sprightly - Handel's 'Theodora', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Strong Performances - 'Jephte' and 'Dido' from English Touring Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Captivating Delicacy - Igor Tchetuev plays Tchaikovsky, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Three Premières - Malcolm Miller applauds the latest concert of music by Julian Dawes

CD Spotlight. Sparkle and Polish - Robin Zebaida plays piano rarities, enjoyed by Bill Newman. '... musical appeal is immediate.'

Ensemble. Simplicity and Directness - Malcolm Miller assesses Opera Project's 'Don Giovanni', currently on tour

Ensemble. Revisiting with Pleasure - Summer at Longborough Festival Opera, enjoyed by Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight. Spontaneity and Immediacy - Martino Tirimo celebrates Mozart's 250th Anniversary, enjoyed by Bill Newman. '... outstanding performances.'

Drive and Energy - Andreas Boyde's recent Derby recital, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Commitment and Energy - Derby Cathedral Choir sings Mozart, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Modern Style - Pimlico Opera's 'The Barber of Seville', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A masterclass in performing Mozart - A concert by Stephen Hough, Mark Elder and the Hallé Orchestra delighted Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Satisfying the Quest - 'The Nightingale and the Rose' by Oliver Rudland, reviewed by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. A Sizzling Account - 'The Tempest' by Thomas Adès, reviewed by Maria Nockin

Ask Alice - On Steven Isserlis, Agnes Poirier and surrender monkeys, with Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

Infallible Beauty - Martino Tirimo's Mozart from Cadogan Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Provocative thoughts, from Patric Standford - Competition

Ensemble. Glowingly Realised - Robert Manning, David Johnson and Tom Corfield share an organ recital at Derby Cathedral, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Chinese Wunderkind - Nine-year-old Niu Niu's Wigmore Hall début, admired by Malcolm Troup

Record box. Satisfying Breadth - Chamber music by Hummel, appreciated by Patric Standford

Masterly and Musical - An organ recital by Adrian Lucas, appreciated by Tom Corfield

Rhythmic Bounce - Peter Gould at the organ of Derby Cathedral, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. A Belated Flowering - Six-part consorts by John Jenkins, appreciated by Malcolm Tattersall. '... a wonderful group.'

Ensemble. Intelligent and Cogent - Julian Jacobson attended the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe's Summer Celebrity Festival

Old-time virtuosity stages a comeback - Daniel Grimwood at St Martin-in-the-Fields, reviewed by Malcolm Troup

Bold and Forthright - Marcus Huxley played at Derby Cathedral, and Mike Wheeler was there

Record Box. Enterprising Recordings - Music for piano and orchestra, reviewed by Patric Standford

Bubbling Energy - An organ recital by Malcolm Riley, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Fine Indeed - Stokowski symphonic transcriptions, recommended by Howard Smith. '... an unqualified testament to Stokowski's magic.'

Amazing and Dynamic - An organ recital by Martin Baker, reviewed by Tony Westerman

Ensemble. A Surreal Evening - Mike Wheeler reports from the Buxton Festival

CD Spotlight. Valuable Explorations - 'My Dear Siegfried' - Despatches from No Man's Land, reviewed by Malcolm Tattersall. 'The work has as much affinity with trance/techno as with the modernist art music from which it developed.'

A Name to Remember! - Mikhail Shilyaev at St Martin-in-the-Fields, reviewed by Malcolm Troup

Noble and Moving - An organ recital by Andrew Nethsingha, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Tonkori in the Park - World music at the City of London Festival, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

The Big Statement - An organ recital by John Keys, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Wit and Originality - Garsington Opera presents The Philosophers' Stone, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Music in Captivity - Malcolm Miller was at a lecture recital by Ronald Senator, with Teresa Gobel and Miriam Brickman

Ensemble. Touching Contributions - A concert by the Derwent Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

A Force to Reckon With - Malcolm Miller enjoys a Wigmore Hall recital by the young Bulgarian pianist Vesselin Stanev

Ensemble. A Mythic Story - 'Nixon in China', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Fizzing with Energy - The Sitwell Singers celebrate a 40th anniversary, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Elegance and Agility - Bach, Arnold and Haydn from Sinfonia Viva in Derby, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Respect and Understanding - A CD celebrating 300 years of Charpentier, reviewed by Peter Howell. 'The performance is excellent throughout.'

CD Spotlight. Melodic Felicity - Salon music by Katharine Parker, reviewed by Robert Hugill. 'Edwards has a lovely soprano voice ...'

CD Spotlight. Contrasting Styles - CDs of medieval music, reviewed by Rex Harley. '... delightful recording ...'

Ensemble. Taking Comedy Seriously - 'L'Elisir d'Amore' at Grange Park Opera, appreciated by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Piano meets Sitar - Malcolm Miller at a CD launch of Peter Feuchtwanger's exotic piano music

Ensemble. Opera to Gogol at - Rimsky-Korsakov's 'May Night' at Garsington Opera, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Fluid Performance - The Chelsea Opera Group's 'I Puritani', reviewed by Robert Hugill

A Touch of Authenticity - A recital by Karolina Marchlewska, reviewed by Tau Wey

Ensemble. Wonderfully Enjoyable - Massenet's 'Thaïs', reviewed by Robert Hugill

DVD Spotlight. Real Water, Real Music - Handel's Water Music: Recreating a Royal Spectacular, reviewed by Malcolm Tattersall. '... as authentic as we'll see and hear without a time machine.'

Ensemble. Gripping Stuff - Handel's 'Ariodante' at English National Opera, enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Sparkle and Communicability - Joseph Horovitz's 80th birthday celebration, appreciated by Malcolm Miller

Provocative thoughts, from Patric Standford - Shining youth

Ensemble. Much to Enjoy - The Budapest Symphony Orchestra on tour in the UK, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Pianistic Phenomenon - Malcolm Troup was at Qian Wu's recent London South Bank recital

Ensemble. All Deception - Shostakovich's opera 'The Nose', enjoyed by David Wilkins

Ensemble. Simple but Effective - 'Tolomeo' at the London Handel Festival, enjoyed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. World Class Chamber Music - Malcolm Troup on the recent BPSE chamber music masterclass and competition in London

Ensemble. Emotionally devastating - Stephen Sondheim's 'Into the Woods' impresses Mike Wheeler

DVD Spotlight. Moving and Powerful - Gershwin's 'Porgy and Bess', appreciated by Robert Anderson. 'The work is in the safest possible hands ...'

Ensemble. Sparkling Performances - Yvonne Kenny and Iain Burnside at London's Wigmore Hall, reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Widely Divergent Composers - Music for violin and piano, reviewed by George Balcombe. '... clear and consistent ...'

Ensemble. The music of Julian Dawes - Malcolm Miller was at the first performance of 'Eleven Hebrew Folksongs'

Ensemble. Powerful Forces - Mozart, Beethoven and Brahms from the Navarra Quartet and Simon Lane, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Tremendous Energy - Kurt Weill's 'Arms and the Cow', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A Remarkable Achievement - Stephen Barlow's cathedral opera 'King', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Haitink's Beethoven - Malcolm Miller was at the second of three April concerts at London's Barbican Hall

Ensemble. A Rousing Send-off - Nicholas Kok's last concert as Principal Conductor of Sinfonia Viva, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Consummate Style - Robert Hugill is won over by English National Opera's 'Orfeo'

Ensemble. One Generation 4 Another - Malcolm Miller was at the Lord's Taverner's charity pop concert at London's Royal Albert Hall

Ensemble. Breathtaking Pianism - Malcolm Miller was at Ian Hobson's Wigmore Hall piano recital

Ensemble. 'I wandered through Theresienstadt' - Malcolm Miller was at a Terezin concert on the eve of Holocaust Day 2006

Ensemble. Inspiring and Memorable - Handel's oratorio 'Solomon', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Life's Fulfilment - Bill Newman recalls the affection he felt for the great Hungarian conductor-composer Antal Doráti, who would have been 100 years old today

Provocative thoughts, from Patric Standford - School music

Record box. Impressive Refinement - Handel Italian cantatas performed by Arcadia, and reviewed by Patric Standford

The Designer Touch - Tonina Doráti and opera production, as explained to Bill Newman

Ensemble. Spell-binding - Venetian Baroque music from The Derbyshire Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Stylistic Variety - Passiontide music sung by the Derwent Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Admirably Convincing - English Touring Opera's 'Tosca', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Opulently Staged - Donizetti's 'Lucia di Lammermoor', reviewed by Maria Nockin

Ensemble. Fascinating Fusions - Ladino music from Jewish Music Central marks the UK launch of the book 'The Sephardic Songbook', reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Arresting Playing - A recital by Althea Ifeka and Katherine May, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

What makes a conductor? - 'Conductors in Conversation' by Jeannine Wagar, reviewed by Kelly Ferjutz

Ensemble. Radiantly fresh - Emma Kirkby and the Derby Choral Union, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Delicacy and Tenderness - The Russian State Philharmonic in Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. To the Manner Born - Marcella Crudeli's recital at London's Leighton House, enjoyed by Malcolm Troup

Ensemble. Fire and Flexibility - Verdi's 'Attila', reviewed by Robert Hugill

The Lion and the Lamb - A Tau Wey piano recital, appreciated by Malcolm Troup

Profile. Tête-à-Tête - Bill Newman talks to British pianist Mark Bebbington

Ensemble. Simply Stunning - A performance of Elgar's 'The Dream of Gerontius' impresses Mike Wheeler

Fire and Energy - Matthew Coorey and the RLPO in Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Witty and Entertaining - 'Sir John in Love', reviewed by Robert Hugill

The Mighty Venetian - Tess Crebbin talks to Charles Beare about the master instrument maker Domenico Montagnana

Three Questions before the First Night - Carson Cooman talks to Judith Lang Zaimont about her Symphony for Wind Orchestra in Three Scenes

DVD Spotlight. Ultimate Destruction - Verdi's 'Macbeth', reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... much excitement ...'

Ensemble. Velvety Textures - Malcolm Miller enjoys Voces8 in London's new Foundling Museum Lunchtime Series

Ensemble. Worth waiting for - Phyllida Lloyd's production of Verdi's 'Macbeth', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Deeply satisfying - A piano recital by Jane Ford, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Mozart viewpoints - Bill Newman reports on the 250th anniversary

Record box. An appealing programme - Mahler, Schumann and Britten, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Effectively shaped - Bizet's 'The Pearl Fishers', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Record box. Colourfully set - Choral music by William McClelland, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Physical and Spiritual - Music on the theme of journeys, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Emotional claustrophobia - A concert performance of Strauss's 'Salomé', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Fresh and Involving - Lunchtime jazz from the Georgia Mancio Quartet, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Plea for peace - Vaughan Williams's 'Dona Nobis Pacem' in Florida, reviewed by Lawrence Budmen

Ensemble. An outstanding recital - The Denali Piano Trio, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Flair and momentum - Malcolm Miller enjoys a highlight of the BBC Radio 3 Lunchtime Mozart Quartet Series

CD Spotlight. Cuts and Dissolves - Music by Turnage, Rihm and Benjamin, reviewed by Carson Cooman. '... a well-planned listening experience ...'

A straight line career path - Conductor Kenneth Montgomery talks to Maria Nockin about his life, his music and upcoming events

Ensemble. Vivid form - 'Il Barbiere di Siviglia' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Thrilling impetus - José Serebrier conducts Glazunov, reviewed by Howard Smith. '... the Scottish players bring appropriate breadth and commitment ...'

CD Spotlight. Bitter strength - Orchestral music by Benjamin Britten, recommended by Ron Bierman. '... outstanding performances.'

Ensemble. Delightful music-making - A concert by the Sitwell Singers, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Buoyant and crisp - 'Messiah' in Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Ingenuity and madness? - Malcolm Miller investigates Robert Voisey's '60x60' project

Ensemble. Beethoven winners - Malcolm Miller reports on two European competitions

Ensemble. The ideal match - Celebrating the tenth series of live music at London's Wallace Collection, by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Style and concept - Two young pianists of outstanding promise, by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Telling contributions - Carols from Derby Cathedral, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Alert rhythmic sense - The Tempest Saxophone Quartet in concert, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Much to enjoy - Colin Davies conducts Elgar's 'Dream of Gerontius', and Robert Hugill was in the audience

Ensemble. Debussy to savour - Malcolm Miller admires Valerie Tryon in recital

Ensemble. Great panache - Derby Concert Orchestra plays Maxwell Davies, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Hushed intensity - Elgar, Brahms and Strauss in Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A gripping evening - 'Billy Budd' at English National Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Giants? - Alistair Hinton replies to Patric Standford's latest Provocative Thoughts

Ensemble. One hell of a concert - Hot - An Infernal Cabaret, the latest collaborative project by Peter Wiegold's 'notes inégales' and performance poet Murray Lachlan. Malcolm Miller was there

Ensemble. Grandeur and intimacy - A performance of Handel's 'Solomon', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Record box. Noël - Christmas carols and chants played by Anonymous 4, enjoyed by Basil Ramsey

DVD Spotlight. Mysterious nirvana - Wagner's 'Tristan und Isolde', reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... the climaxes are prepared with meticulous cunning.'

Ensemble. Striking sonorities - Twentieth-century British music, sung by Derby Choral Union, and reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Utterly gripping - A recital by Fiona McNaught and Daniel Tong, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Record box. Ignited memories - British light music, reviewed by Patric Standford

An uncanny emerging artist - by Anya Lomakova

CD Spotlight. Sprightly tempos - Rameau ballet suites, reviewed by Ron Bierman. '... intelligent performances.'

Ensemble. Moments of magic - 'A Midsummer Marriage' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Changing moods - The Derwent Singers and Sinfonia Chorale, appreciated by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Pervasive influence - A return visit to London by the Verdehr Trio, reviewed by Peter Dickinson

Ensemble. Maturity and insight - Julian Bliss and Sinfonia Viva in Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A creditable performance - Richard Strauss's 'Salome' at English National Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Spirit of friendship - Malcolm Miller admires Schubert and Mendelssohn at the London début of the newly formed piano trio 'Opus 3'

Class actions? - Alistair Hinton replies to Patric Standford's latest on 'Class acts'

Ensemble. High expectations - A concert by The Quince Quartet, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Punchy dynamism - Sinfonia ViVA at Derby's Guildhall, enjoyed by Mike Wheeler

CD Spotlight. Aesthetic and didactic - Music by Respighi and Mussorgsky, reviewed by George Balcombe. 'Tadaaki Otaka conjures the composer's unique sound ...'

Ensemble. A terrific evening - 'Dialogues des Carmélites' at English National Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

A broad spectrum - Roderic Dunnett was at the 2005 Rotherham Arts Festival

Incandescent conviction - Mozart, Schubert and Beethoven in Littleover, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Magic piccolo? - English Touring Opera visits Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. A fine sound - A concert by the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. The freedom of jazz - 'All Rise', by Wynton Marsalis, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Frenetic pace - Nielsen's 'Maskarade', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Old and new - The first public appearance of a new chamber choir, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Playful rapport - A recital by Harriet Adie and Jessica Burroughs, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Passion and yearning - Sujeeva Hapugalle gives a piano recital at London's Leighton House, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Vivid energy - Gerald Barry's new opera 'Petra von Kant', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Record box. Accomplished playing - Kumiko Ida's British piano album, appreciated by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Symphonic structure - The Hallé Orchestra plays Vaughan Williams in Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. Enjoyment all round - Greek guitarist Eleftheria Kotzia in Derby, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Provocations - Alistair Hinton and Chad Wozniak discuss Patric Standford's recent 'Provocative Thoughts'

Drama in the music - Robert Hugill muses on the staging of Handel's oratorios

Useful insights - Daniel Felsenfeld's book 'Samuel Barber and Benjamin Britten. Their lives and their music', reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Ensemble. An exuberant performance - Mike Wheeler reviews the last of Derby Cathedral's summer organ recitals, given by Tom Corfield

Ensemble. Exquisite finesse - A song recital by Andrew Kennedy and Simon Lepper impresses Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Roulades of passion - Oleh Krysa and Tatiana Tchekina at London's Wigmore Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Enjoyably feisty - Derby Cathedral organ recitals by Ian Hare, Sophie-Véronique Cauchefer-Choplin, Peter Gould and Jonathan Gregory, David Briggs, Simon Bell and David Johnson, reviewed by Mike Wheeler

Profile. Emotional contours - Ian Wilson, featured composer at the 2005 Presteigne Festival, talks to Robert Hugill

Record box. Wilby's reconstruction - Daniel Hope plays Mozart, reviewed by Howard Smith

Ensemble. Contrasting pianists - by Bill Newman

Ask Alice - On 'Così', Nigel Kennedy and recovering the Ashes, with Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. A versatile performer - Daphna Cohen-Licht's recital disc 'Emotional Turbulence', reviewed by Robert Hugill. '... Cohen-Licht gives full reign to the drama ...'

Ensemble. Infused with magic - Rex Harley is entranced by 'Hansel and Gretel' at Longborough Festival Opera

Ensemble. Heart-rending beauty - Concertos by Elgar and Kopytman, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Record box. Push the boat out - Music for trumpets, and music for baroque lute, reviewed by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Magnificent playing - Mûza Rubackyté in recital, and on disc, appreciated by Bill Newman

Lasting friendships - Roderic Dunnett looks back to a glorious weekend celebrating Gerald Finzi and English Song in Ludlow with the Finzi Friends, and hopes for another next year

Editor's Inbox - More readers' letters, including condolences offered to those affected by Thursday's bombings in London

Ensemble. Tragic scenes - Handel's 'Flavio' in London, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Record box. A recital to value - Lute solos and songs by Robert Johnson from Shakespeare's England, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ask Alice - On pupils failing exams, opera singers and gut strings, with Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh, proud, today, to be (half) British

CD Spotlight. Often ravishing - Music by Debussy, Prokofiev, Britten and Ravel, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... admirably encompassed ...'

Record box. Impressive performances - A 20th century recital by the Westminster Choir, recommended by Patric Standford

Ask Alice - On singing in Cardiff, Isserlis playing Saint-Saëns and square Samson, with Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Stylish and memorable - 'Maria Stuarda' at Grange Park Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. A memorable evening - Maurice Hasson's 70th birthday recital with Gabriela Montero was a notable 2005 Wigmore Hall event for Bill Newman

Ask Alice - On mini-disc players, Mozart in the jungle and ads for tenors, with Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh, in search of a tenor

CD Spotlight. Radiant, supernatural beauty - In a special multimedia presentation, Gordon Rumson talks about Alistair Hinton's String Quintet

Ensemble. Truly magnificent - Handel's 'Jephtha' at the London Coliseum, reviewed by Robert Hugill.

Ask Alice - Encounters with Big Hand Span and The Cunning Man, for Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

DVD Spotlight. Inexplicable passion - Astor Piazzolla in portrait, appreciated by David Wilkins. '... defying category but never defying mastery.'

Ensemble. The extra layer? - Robert Hugill was at Covent Garden's 'Il Turco in Italia'

Ensemble. Oozing with talent - Birmingham Opera Company's 'Ulysses comes home', reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ask Alice - On stars and superstars, with Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

A singular event - Sergei Podobedov plays Bach/Busoni, Liadov, Boris Goltz and Chopin, reviewed by David Braid

Ask Alice - On lovestruck violists and beasts in Sydenham, with Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Different approaches - Comparing two piano trios on the same day, with Bill Newman

Ensemble. The lady and her entourage - Bill Newman at a concert by the London Chamber Music Group

Ensemble. Much to applaud - Malcolm Miller reports on an impressive array of talent at the BPSE Beethoven Chamber Music Competition 2005

Ensemble. Triple Kirckmans - Bill Newman attends three events given by young musicians

Ensemble. Commanding performances - Valerie Tryon at the Chopin Society on VE Day Anniversary, appreciated by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Handel's first night thoughts - Robert Hugill was at the Cambridge Handel Opera Group's 'Tamerlano'

Ensemble. Imaginative and ambitious - Rex Harley discovers the Crickhowell Festival

Ensemble. Handel's Spanish soul - Malcolm Miller attends an inspiring concert at the London Handel Festival 2005

Ask Alice - A celebration of the madness of UK election hype, from Classical Music Agony Aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Their Majesties' Music - Pippa Hare listens to the Choir of the 21st Century

Timings - thoughts about the quirkiness of some of music's hidden secrets - The Wind of Change: 1788, by Jennifer Paull

CD Spotlight. Sonatas and sonatinas - Guitar music played by Nathan Kolosko, recommended by Malcolm Tattersall. 'Kolosko's playing is clean, fluent and assured ...'

DVD Spotlight. A dazzling 'tour de force' - Handel's 'Giulio Cesare', enjoyed by Robert Anderson. 'Graham Pushee sings with utmost bravura, fire and clarity ...'

CD Spotlight. Incontrovertible logic - Gillian Weir plays Bach at St Thomas's, Leipzig, appreciated by Robert Anderson. '... skilfully explored ...'

CD Spotlight. Infectious delight - Stokowski conducts Vivaldi and Handel, reviewed by Patric Standford. 'His approach was clearly monumental.'

Profile. South American Belle - A portrait of pianist Clara Rodriguez, by Bill Newman

Record box. Effective film music - Music by Mark Emney, reviewed by Patric Standford

CD Spotlight. Richly romantic - Orchestral music by Frank Bridge, praised by Patric Standford. '... a fine recording of music that has an outstanding place in English musical heritage.'

Am I too loud? - Robert Hugill muses on Wagnerian sopranos and changing performance tradition

Editor's Inbox - More readers' letters

CD Spotlight. A welcome introduction - Music by John Adams, reviewed by Robert Hugill. 'Alsop has a clear feel for this music ...'

CD Spotlight. Varied and intriguing - Contemporary music première recordings for oboe, reviewed by Patric Standford

Reminiscent retrospectives - Fritzin' the Looking-Glass - On the second anniversary of Fritz Spiegl's death, Jennifer Paull looks into his witty reflection and recalls musical frustrations and fun with Fritz

Destined for the top - Roderic Dunnett talks to Sarah Saunders of Phoenix Rising

Ensemble. Vital performance - 'Die Walküre', appreciated by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Winds of change - Malcolm Miller applauds a new work by Richard Dubugnon premièred by the Haffner Wind Ensemble and Min-Jung Kym

Ensemble. Sex and art - Leonard Bernstein's 'On The Town' at the London Coliseum, reviewed by David Wilkins

Unforgettable Ifor - Jennifer Paull pays tribute to Ifor James (1931-2004)

DVD Spotlight. Gripping performance - 'The Turn of the Screw', reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... splendidly captured musically and visually ...'

'Sky poets paint the sheltered curve to find' - the first part of a triptych of articles by Jennifer Paull

Ensemble. A perfect marriage of music and theology - Pippa Hare was at the Tudeley Festival's performance of Bach's B minor Mass

Ensemble. A thrilling performance - Rosie and Nick Evelegh were at Canterbury Choral Society's 'The Apostles'

Ensemble. A fitting celebration - The BBC National Orchestra of Wales plays Ravel, Hoddinott and Vaughan Williams, reviewed by Rex Harley

Ensemble. Refreshing clarity - Paul Goodwin and the Academy of Ancient Music play Beethoven, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Sheer modernity - Shostakovich's 2nd and 14th symphonies, appreciated by Patric Standford. '... a superb disc ...'

CD Spotlight. Creditable performances - Vocal music by Wolfgang Rihm, reviewed by Robert Hugill. '... purity, clarity and commendable accuracy.'

Ensemble. Piano sonority - Lydia Scadding wins the 2004 Beethoven Junior Intercollegiate Piano Competition, reported by Malcolm Miller

Ask Alice - On concerts, witches and sightings, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Love and learning - Schubert and Schumann song cycles, reviewed by Robert Anderson, who also pays tribute to the late Eric Sams

CD Spotlight. Entertaining tricks - Cello and violin CDs, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... silken, silvery tone ...'

Ensemble. Remarkable diversity - The Beethoven Intercollegiate Piano Competition, reviewed by Manus Carey

What is the English National Opera for? - Robert Hugill asks the question and, whilst previewing the forthcoming season, suggests three possible answers

Ask Alice - When Agony Aunt meets White Witch, plus a review of the Jacqueline du Pré memorial event in London, by Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Absolutely contemporary - David Wilkins was one of two M&V writers at Tippett's 'A Child of Our Time', staged at the London Coliseum on Friday 21 January 2005

Ensemble. Particularly frustrating - Robert Hugill on Jonathan Kent's staging of 'A Child of Our Time'

CD Spotlight. Much to praise - Mozart wind concertos, reviewed by Ron Bierman. 'The performances range from able to among the best.'

Profile. Total dedication and accord - A portrait of piano duettists Isabel Beyer and Harvey Dagul, by Bill Newman

Ensemble. The Kirckman concept - by Bill Newman

Ensemble. New sounds and ideas - Malcolm Miller attends the first concert in the Park Lane Group's New Year Series 2005

CD Spotlight. Swimming against the tide - Music by John Foulds, reviewed by Rex Harley. '... in performance terms, everything about this disc is excellent ...'

CD Spotlight. Ravishing colloquy - Orchestral music by Tchaikovsky, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... sumptuous and highly disciplined playing ...

CD Spotlight. Wondrously alive - Music by Elgar, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... yet more immediacy than the original LPs ...'

CD Spotlight. Higher authority - Jacob Heringman plays music from the Siena Lute Book, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... an infectious zest for the music ...'

Record box. The perceptive oboe - Nancy Ambrose King plays oboe concertos, reviewed by Basil Ramsey

Profile. An ideal lifestyle - Remembering Sir John and others. Bill Newman visits Lady Evelyn Barbirolli

Remarkable diversity - Robert Hugill writes about the British Composer Awards

CD Spotlight. Considerable pleasure - Emma Kirkby sings music by Cataldo Amodei, reviewed by Patric Standford. '... a CD of rare beauty ...'

CD Spotlight. Valued archives - Stokowski and the classic Columbias, reviewed by Patric Standford. '... a powerful performance ...'

CD Spotlight. Festive mood - Carols for brass, appreciated by Kelly Ferjutz. '... simply superb.'

Ensemble. Confined to the house - 'Don Pasquale' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. Brightness and fidelity - Choral music by Cecilia McDowall, appreciated by Patric Standford. '... a composer who deserves to be heard as widely as possible.'

Ensemble. Nobly moving - Glinka's 'A Life for the Tsar' in London, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Musical sounds and colours - A portrait of the Greek-born pianist Eugenia Papadimas, by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Honed and practised - Jan Garbarek in Cardiff, enjoyed by Rex Harley

Ensemble. A worthy winner - The Donatella Flick Conducting Competition 2004, reviewed by David Wilkins

CD Spotlight. A unique achievement - EMI's golden years of the gramophone, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... total fascination ...'

Novelist as composer - The life and times of Anthony Burgess, by Tess Crebbin

Ensemble. Engaging and colourful - Bernard Roberts plays music by Stephen Dodgson, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - Do we understand 'normality'?

Record box. A sure touch - Edward Higginbottom conducts New College Oxford Choir, appreciated by Basil Ramsey

Writing new opera - A composer's perspective, by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Beacon of hope - Daniel Barenboim conducts the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

The same or not the same? - That is the question. Alistair Hinton responds to Patric Standford's recent provocative essay

Ensemble. Thirty-two sonatas a day - Malcolm Miller attends Julian Jacobson's Beethoven marathon

Record box. Ease and warmth - Music by Billy Cowie, reviewed by Ron Bierman

Ensemble. Compelling performances - Elgar's Cello Concerto enlivens an ambitious Festival Miami concert, reviewed by Lawrence Budmen

Ensemble. Deeply affecting - Strauss's 'Ariadne auf Naxos' in Cardiff, reviewed by Rex Harley

Ensemble. A dazzling mix - Bohuslav Martinu's 'The Greek Passion' at London's Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Authentic folk drama - Béla Pintér and Company's 'Peasant Opera', reviewed by Rex Harley

Ensemble. Suspending disbelief? - 'Turandot' at Welsh National Opera, reviewed by Rex Harley

Ask Alice - On cellists, composers and veils, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Opium of the elite - Roderic Dunnett previews this autumn's touring operas in the UK

Record box. Legato blues - David Johnstone plays assorted music for solo cello, reviewed by Patric Standford

Record box. Expanding repertoire - A Daniel Rubinoff saxophone recital, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ensemble. A musical joy - London's Regent Hall Piano Festival, reviewed by Manus Carey

Alarms included - Alice McVeigh's 'Ghost Music', reviewed by Kelly Ferjutz

CD Spotlight. Imaginative programme - The Choir of St Martin-in-the-Fields, reviewed by Robert Hugill. '... an impressive standard ...'

CD Spotlight. Strange farrago - Elgar's 'Starlight Express', reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... accomplished and imbued with the sort of affection the work desperately needs.'

European tour - A preview, of sorts, of the Cleveland Orchestra's four-city, three festival visit, by Kelly Ferjutz

Ensemble. Admirably involving - Tau Wey at the 2004 Regent Hall Summer Festival, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. Richly sumptuous - The Czech Moravian Virtuosi Orchestra sparkles in novelties from Europe, by Lawrence Budmen

Profile. Quality and clarity - Robert Hugill meets British pianist Ashley Wass

Ask Alice - Classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh returns to tell the story of her rescue by Hel and Slime

While the music lasts - Kelly Ferjutz enjoys Alice McVeigh's musical novel

CD Spotlight. Passion for Bach - Dominic Miller's 'Shapes', reviewed by Tess Crebbin. '... he is a genius.'

Ensemble. Mesmerising - Further thoughts on Longborough's 'Ring' and Sir Donald McIntyre as Wotan, from Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. A real triumph - McIntyre sings Wotan at Longborough Festival Opera, reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Rich harvest - Summer opera in the UK, reviewed and previewed by Roderic Dunnett

Barcelona diary - The London Concord Singers visit Catalunya, and Robert Hugill keeps a written record of the trip

Provocative thoughts, from Patric Standford - All-round musical greatness

Record box. Rich and resonant - Hilary Norris plays the organ of Ashridge Chapel, reviewed by Julia Ionides

CD Spotlight. Mr Bean and Elgar - A compilation of recordings from the 1970s, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... a technical mastery that any world soloist might envy.'

CD Spotlight. Hope and fear - Berg and Britten violin concertos, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... a violinist of superb accomplishment ...'

Ask Alice - Jaundiced, but nearly in Crete .... is classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. A stunning masterpiece - Opera East on tour with Lennox Berkeley's 'A Dinner Engagement' and Holst's 'The Wandering Scholar' - Peter Dickinson reports

Ensemble. Particular virtues - Richard Strauss's 'Ariadne auf Naxos' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ask Alice - Keep taking the tablets ... the latest advice from classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Hauntingly beautiful - Britten's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' at the London Coliseum, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Standing ovation? - Lyric Opera Cleveland's 'Mikado', reviewed by Kelly Ferjutz

Ensemble. Grand guignol - Tchaikovsky's 'The Enchantress' at Grange Park, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Misunderstood? - 'Peter Grimes' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ask Alice - More forays into politics and literature, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. A classic - 'Wonderful Town' at Grange Park Opera, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ask Alice - Helpful hints about sharing instruments, plus some musical commentary on Wimbledon, from classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - Sad news about classical music for Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Wind without mercy - Robert Hugill's 'Passion', reviewed by Keith Bramich. '... a very distinctive soundworld ...'

CD Spotlight. A salad-days genius - The violin concerto by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... a clean-cut precision throughout the work ...'

CD Spotlight. Gloriously inspired - Choral works by Walton and Elgar, reviewed by Robert Anderson. 'Sargent's vitality matches Walton's ...'

Ensemble. Musically stunning - Richard Strauss's 'Arabella' at Covent Garden, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. Roaring success - Malcolm Miller enjoys a children's concert by Dominic Harlan

Ask Alice - On cellists, politicians, children's musicals and sewer rats, with classical music agony aunt Alice McVeigh

Hold on to your bowlers! - Kelly Ferjutz previews Lyric Opera Cleveland's thirty-first season

Ask Alice - In the wake of recent European elections, our ever-timely and impartial agony aunt of classical music encourages us to vote McVeigh

Ensemble. Casting from strength - Chelsea Opera Group's 'Andrea Chénier', reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ensemble. An exciting career ahead - Manus Carey listens to Chinese pianist Wu Qian

Life and death - Tess Crebbin writes about 'Shadowtime', Brian Ferneyhough's first opera

CD Spotlight. Flexibility and beauty - Ramón Vargas sings Rossini and Donizetti arias, recommended by Ron Bierman. '... his singing is wonderfully musical.'

Ensemble. An individual voice - Music by Julian Dawes, reviewed by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. A mixed bag - Bill Bruford's Earthworks and The Zawinul Syndicate at St David's Hall, Cardiff on Tuesday 4 May 2004, reviewed by Rex Harley

Ensemble. Muscular performance - Rex Harley is left breathless listening to violinist Chloë Hanslip

Ask Alice - Problems this week with headmasters, oboists and emails, for classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Pianistic excellence - John Lill and Prokofiev's Eighth Sonata at sixty, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Moments of happiness - Alfred Brendel wins the International Ernst von Siemens Music Award 2004, reported by Tess Crebbin

Maria of hope or despair? - David Wilkins was at the first fully-staged UK production of Piazzolla's 'Maria de Buenos Aires'

Ensemble. High calibre - The Beethoven Piano Society of Europe Chamber Music Masterclass with the Gwyneth George Prize, reviewed by Manus Carey

Ask Alice - On Botox, youth and adventures in good music, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - On viola jokes and the eating of dogs, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Enchanting simplicity - John Lill plays Schumann, and Robert Anderson listens. '... manifold subtleties of touch ...'

Ensemble. Drawing you in - The Tord Gustavsen Trio's first ever UK performance, appreciated by Rex Harley

Venus and Adonis - Robert Hugill muses on the marriage of music and words in the seventeenth century

Scrutiny - To begin a weekend of articles celebrating Wilfrid Mellers' ninetieth birthday, Gordon Rumson investigates Mellers' early writings, 1936-1949

Sundry talents, or the importance of laughter - Celebrating his ninetieth birthday today, Wilfrid Mellers talks to Keith Bramich

Seeing music whole - Wilfrid Mellers at ninety - an appreciation by Peter Dickinson

Ensemble. Perfect blendings - Piano 40's eighth London concert, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. A special night - Bill Newman wishes Colin Bradbury many happy returns on the occasion of the clarinettist's seventieth birthday

Ensemble. Spoilt for choice - Swiss ambassadors, a Bulgarian pianist and a marketing project, with Bill Newman

Ask Alice - 'Slice it how you like', claims Alice McVeigh, Bromley's premier researcher into cello sounds and classical music's world's first agony aunt. 'How kinky is that?'

CD Spotlight. Lurking romanticism? - Discovering British light music, with Ron Bierman. 'Sutherland and the Royal Ballet Sinfonia are ideal interpreters.'

Record box. Coming clean - John Potter's 'Care-charming sleep' finds Rex Harley unimpressed

Ask Alice - Alice McVeigh, the agony aunt of classical music, basks in the glory of her successful Dvorák performance ...

CD Spotlight. Beethoven unbuttoned? - Volume two of the Metier 'Beethoven Explored' series, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... nice rhythmic sense and technical assurance.'

Ensemble. Gripping theatre - Robert Hugill experiences Zurich Opera's 'Radamisto'

Ask Alice - Alice McVeigh, the agony aunt of classical music, is artistically ham-strung and irritated, this week ...

Ensemble. Feather in the cap - Rex Harley reviews a choral concert which took place on Saturday 13 March 2004 in Bristol UK

Ask Alice - A tale of cricket and children's books, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. A triumphant close - Robert Hugill reviews the current Covent Garden London production of 'Samson and Delila'

CD Spotlight. To be savoured - Aubrey Brain plays Bach, Brahms, Glazunov and Mozart, appreciated by David Thompson. '... music making of the highest calibre ...'

Ask Alice - A tale of one passport application, by classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Refreshing repertoire - Portuguese wind music played by the Galliard Ensemble, appreciated by Patric Standford. '... brilliantly played.'

CD Spotlight. Ascending slowly - Chamber music by Peter Maxwell Davies, reviewed by Patric Standford. '... played with accomplished precision ...'

Transcending virtuosity - Alistair Hinton comments on points made in Gordon Rumson's recent Chopin review

Ask Alice - Classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh, gives up explanation (or should that be exclamation?) points for Lent

CD Spotlight. A complex personality - The Romanesca trio's recording of Biber Violin Sonatas, recommended by Ron Bierman. '... the performances are outstanding.'

The specious origins of originality - Alistair Hinton comments on Patric Standford's recent 'Provocative Thoughts'

Ensemble. The thinnest tightrope - David Wilkins at the Hungarian première of Britten's 'The Turn of the Screw'

Ask Alice - Community service for conductors? Romantic music for bassoonists? All this and more with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

White, gold and marble - Robert Hugill takes a look around the newly-restored London Coliseum, home of English National Opera

Ensemble. Involving and magical - Robert Hugill experiences Thomas Adès's opera 'The Tempest'

Ensemble. Lack of balance - Rex Harley experiences Il Vero Modo

Ask Alice - On the continued excellence of the cello and the continued bad behaviour of conductors, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - The balance of the sexes or ... conductors with their trousers down, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Brave heart - Angela Lear's search for the essential Chopin, by Gordon Rumson. '... heroic single-mindedness.'

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - Obsession

Ask Alice - On string quartets, advertising, cellists and fame, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Personal connections - Robert Hugill discusses Vaughan Williams and the Bloomsbury Group

CD Spotlight. Scintillating performance - Tamami Honma plays music by John McCabe, appreciated by Patric Standford

Ensemble. Radiantly musical - Les Arts Florissants perform music by Charpentier, reviewed by Robert Hugill

Ask Alice - Busking amongst the sheep and speed cameras, classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh, live this week from Wales

Listening with baroque ears - Robert Hugill investigates the world of collaborative opera

A hermit at heart - Carolyn Nott pays an eightieth birthday tribute to her husband, the composer Gerard Schurmann

Ask Alice - On diction and eye jobs, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh, live this week from Brighton pier

CD Spotlight. Infectious performances - Joglaresa and Belinda Sykes perform medieval songs for Mary Magdelene, recommended by Robert Hugill. '... enormous freshness and immediacy.'

Ensemble. Rivalling Richter and Gilels - The piano scene, and a young musical stylist in the making, by Bill Newman

Ensemble. Perfect realisations - Mei Yi Foo at Steinway Hall, reviewed by Bill Newman

Ensemble. A new group in the making - Bill Newman listens to the Rosamunde Trio

CD Spotlight. Tintinnabulation - Music by Arvo Pärt, reviewed by Rex Harley. '... all the air and spaciousness one needs ...'

What sound? - Robert Hugill asks some questions about the music of William Byrd

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - Uprooting

Handel's singers - Robert Hugill investigates the fascinating world of opera in eighteenth century London

CD Spotlight. Emotional immediacy - Music by Andrea Gabrieli, recommended by Robert Hugill. '... His Majestys Sagbutts and Cornetts play stunningly ...'

CD Spotlight. Contrasting pieces - Music by John Hawkins, explored by Patric Standford. 'The performers are of the best ...'

Record box. Rhythmic invention - The string quartets of David Arditti, reviewed by Patric Standford

Ask Alice - On anonymous Christmas cards, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Mystical chorus - David Arditti at a different performance of 'L'Enfance du Christ'

Ensemble. Warmth and spontaneity - David Thompson reviews a performance of 'L'Enfance du Christ' by Berlioz

CD Spotlight. Fresh air - The Naxos Book of Carols, appreciated by Keith Bramich. 'A delightful and magnificent stocking-filler!'

Ask Alice - Recent changes in UK legislation impinge on the world of classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Profile. Surging up again? - Gordon Rumson investigates the sacred choral music of Caleb Simper, (no longer) sung throughout the civilized world

Ensemble. Stylistically convincing - Malcolm Miller listens to Trio Lignum

A revelation - Some personal reflections on the Lennox Berkeley Centenary, from Peter Dickinson

Ensemble. New edition - Robert Hugill congratulates the Chelsea Opera Group on its performance of 'The Pearl Fishers'

Ensemble. Snowfall in winter - Keith Bramich at a performance by Tamami Honma and friends

Ensemble. Bold individuality - Malcolm Miller enjoys a performance by an outstanding young Hungarian duo at the Wallace Collection

Ensemble. Handelian metal - A concert performance of 'Serse', reviewed by Robert Hugill

CD Spotlight. A collector's item - Stephen Isserlis and Stephen Hough play Rachmaninov and Franck, admired by John Bell Young. '... the rapport between Mr Isserlis and Mr Hough is on the order of the clairvoyant.'

Ask Alice - Choristers and Christmas gifts, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

'Messiah' as never before - Howard Smith describes Lygia O'Riordan's quest to bring Handel's masterpiece to Eastern Russia

Ask Alice - Conductors' handshakes and solo bows, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Magyar magic - Malcolm Miller was at the launch of the ninth series of Music at the Wallace Collection

Ensemble. Congress of passions - The Finchley Choral Society Centenary Concert, reviewed by Keith Bramich

Profile. Sounds amazing - Bill Newman talks to Jeremy Backhouse, Director of the Vasari Singers

Ask Alice - Problems of the back and the leg, dealt swift blows by classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

In the presence of greatness - David Thompson is impressed by Angela Hewitt's playing of Bach, Couperin and Ravel at London's South Bank International Piano Series

Ensemble. Mutual enthusiasm - Rex Harley meets Phoenix Rising

Ask Alice - Classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh, deals with problems of food and light ...

How essential is the difference? - Composer and curator of the Sorabji Archive Alistair Hinton replies to Patric Standford's recent 'Provocative Thoughts'

Ask Alice - On machines and men, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. A delightful airing - The keyboard music of Matthew Locke, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... crisp and lively ...'

Ask Alice - Classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh, apologises to her Welsh readers

Ask Alice - A brush with the law for classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

A passionate campaign - Tamami Honma's Wigmore Hall solo recital début impresses Keith Bramich

CD Spotlight. Musical impression - Beethoven and the Habsburgs, explored by Robert Anderson. '... infectious zest ...'

Ask Alice - On changing teachers, with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Iberian discovery - Malcolm Miller enjoys a Nancy Lee Harper recital of unfamiliar music

Ensemble. Coming of age - Keith Bramich at the twenty-first Presteigne Festival of Music and the Arts

Record box. Tour-de-force - Patric Standford listens to recent music for solo flutes, played by Nancy Ruffer

Record box. Choral textures - An anniversary CD by an English cathedral choir, welcomed by Patric Standford

CD Spotlight. Confident artistry - Music by Gerard Schurmann, welcomed by Patric Standford. '... clear, direct, economical and excellently focussed ...'

Ensemble. On the lake - Toronto's summer musical fare, including music by Wagner, Weill and Alex Eddington, sampled by Malcolm Miller

Ensemble. New directions - Keith Bramich at the Vale of Glamorgan Festival of Music 2003

Ask Alice - Freedom, A Serf's Charter, by classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - More questions and answers with classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. A pioneering enterprise - David Thompson encounters the Two Barons of Rocca Azzurra

Ensemble. Arias in the Area - Malcolm Miller enjoys opera in concert, sung by Ruti Halvani and Anya Szreter

Editor's inbox - more readers' letters

Ensemble. Something special - Between the Bridge and the Bee-loud Glade, Rex Harley discovers the Aust Festival of Mediaeval Music

John Russell FRCM (1916-1990) - A personal memoir of a friend and teacher, with reference to his friendship with Gerald Finzi, by Adrian Williams

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - A foothold - those early years

Ask Alice - Classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh, on poetry

CD Spotlight. Single voice - Music for unaccompanied oboe, reviewed by Jennifer Paull. '... a masterful performance.'

Ensemble. Meeting the challenge - Keith Bramich listens to early Beethoven from the Miller Piano Quartet

Record box. Light and shadow - The organ music of Paul Fisher, investigated by Basil Ramsey

Ask Alice - The agony aunt and the butterfly, by Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - DGriffs is not amused by classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - Classical music's agony aunt Alice McVeigh visits Legoland (?!)

Ask Alice - On spiders and singing ... from classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ask Alice - More answers from classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Sweet ecstasy - Music by John Tavener, reviewed by Ron Bierman. 'Recommended for those who like Tavener or Anonymous 4.'

Ask Alice - Classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh, is back (!!!!!!!)

Classical objectivity? - Peter Dale reads 'The Music of Lennox Berkeley' by Peter Dickinson

Ensemble. Hot music from Latin America - Malcolm Miller at a highlight of the Regent Hall Summer Festival

Ensemble. Musical banquet - Malcolm Miller at Grange Park Opera's sixth season

Ensemble. An imposing start - David Thompson was at the First Night of the BBC Proms in London.

CD Spotlight. The firmament on high - Music by Thomas Tomkins, enjoyed by Robert Anderson. '... an unqualified delight ...'

CD Spotlight. Mephistopheles in attendence - The playing of Marina Milic-Apostolovic, enjoyed by Robert Anderson

CD Spotlight. Tender longing - Daniil Shtoda sings Russian songs, reviewed by David Wilkins. '... wonderfully expressive ...'

CD Spotlight. Exuberant performances - Howells Canticles from the Collegiate Singers, reviewed by Rex Harley. 'The balance of the choir is near perfect ...'

CD Spotlight. Quiet frustrations - Topologies play music by Alwynne Pritchard, reviewed by Patric Standford. '... excellent playing ...'

Ensemble. Visions of the sublime - Roderic Dunnett on Covent Garden's 'Magic Flute'

Ensemble. ... and a dash of chutzpah - Rex Harley listens to the Welsh Baroque Orchestra's 'Concerto Mania'

CD Spotlight. Musical delights - A new recording of Handel's 'Rinaldo' reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... a performance of vitality and appropriate style ...'

Ensemble. Musical evangelism - Piers Adams' group Red Priest amazes Keith Bramich

Ask DGriffs - A flood of correspondence for M&V's newly appointed 'agony uncle'

Ensemble - Meeting of minds - Stephen Kovacevich and friends play excellent Mozart and Brahms, enjoyed by Malcolm Miller

Operatic connections - Roderic Dunnett talks to Tom Hawkes, the director of Castleward Opera's 'La Rondine'

Ensemble. Oratorio to opera - Rex Harley raises some questions about the staged version of Handel's 'Jephtha'

Lithuanian Diary - In Spring 2003, British composer and pianist John McCabe made his first-ever trip to Lithuania, for concerts and a recording with the St Christopher Chamber Orchestra of Vilnius. Here is a diary of his visit to this delightful country.

CD Spotlight. Tewkesbury variations - A choir and an organ in Gloucestershire UK, appreciated by Roderic Dunnett. 'Two first-class new recordings ...'

Ask Alice - Men problems this week for classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Emotions and music - Some thoughts from composer Alistair Hinton

Ask Alice - Another eye-opening selection from classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Ensemble. Choral centenary - Malcolm Miller enjoys two seldom-performed works by Berthold Goldschmidt

CD Spotlight. Bitter tears - Kathleen Ferrier sings 'Das Lied von der Erde' on Naxos Historical, and David Wilkins is impressed. '... mastery of word-painting ...'

Special gifts - Rex Harley describes a magical concert experienced during a chance visit to the Leamington Festival

Mad about Glinka - Russian conductor Valery Gergiev arrives in London later this month to conduct a rare concert performance of 'A Life for the Tsar'. Musicologist Gerard McBurney talks to Roderic Dunnett about its importance

Ask Alice - Practical advice from classical music's agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Record box. Rich textures - Chamber music by John McCabe, appreciated by Keith Bramich

Ask Alice - Trouble with emails this week for classical music agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

CD Spotlight. Fertile imagination - Arrangement with a vengeance from Red Priest, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... never a dull moment and entertainment value paramount.'

CD Spotlight. Return journey - A Richard Strauss melodrama, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... a fine performance from an actor of wide experience ...'

Celestial music - Gordon Rumson explores sacred and secular in the writing of Wilfrid Mellers

Ask Alice - Our classical music 'agony aunt', Alice McVeigh, tackles more questions

Ask Alice - more questions to Alice McVeigh, the 'agony aunt' of classical music

Performing practices - Pianist Danny Driver talks to Bill Newman

Record box. Intensity - Debussy songs, appreciated by Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight. A delight - Linden and Egarr play Bach Gamba sonatas, and Ron Bierman is impressed. '... a wonderful original instruments recording ...'

East and West - Malcolm Miller applauds Natasa Sarcevic's performance of music by Paul Ben-Haim

Ask Alice - more of your questions answered by our classical music agony aunt, Alice McVeigh

Record box. Always active - Composer at work, by Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight. Musical hierarchy - The Sinfonietta by Ernesto Halffter, reviewed by Patric Standford. '... an impressive job ...

CD Spotlight. Thrilling virtuosity - Organ music by Vierne and Alain, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... James Lancelot shows throughout how effectively he can command the grand Romantic gesture.'

Ensemble. Medieval Hebrew - Malcolm Miller attends the première of 'The Death of Moses' by Julian Dawes

Ask Alice - in the first of a new series, Alice McVeigh, cellist, author and 'agony aunt' of classical music, answers your questions

Editor's inbox - stand up and be counted

Ensemble. Matched to perfection - Rex Harley closes his eyes and enjoys the Gould Piano Trio

Kvapil in concert - Malcolm Miller attends a fascinating masterclass and recital

Ensemble. Strengths and weaknesses - Rex Harley listens to 'Jenufa' at Welsh National Opera

Record box. Distant love - Songs of Jaufre Rudel and Martin Codax, reviewed by Rex Harley

CD Spotlight. A kinder approach - Music by Biber, played by The Parley of Instruments, and recommended by Ron Bierman

Japanese Fantasy - Malcolm Miller admires the virtuosity of Hiromi Okada and the Sonata by Akio Yashiro

Record box. Slick and fun - The London trumpet sound impresses Keith Bramich

Ensemble. An ambitious concert - Rex Harley listens to Tchaikovsky, Lutoslawski and Szymanowski in Wales

CD Spotlight. Carefree brilliance - The keyboard music of Orlando Gibbons, enjoyed by Robert Anderson. '... technique and panache ...'

CD Spotlight. Delian subtlety - The inspired Sir Thomas Beecham, admired by Robert Anderson. '... no better than expected ...'

CD Spotlight. This is music - Listening to Japanese composer Akio Yashiro, by Keith Bramich. '... good performances and a clear recording.'

Simple gifts? - David Thompson is impressed by 'Copland Connotations - Studies and Interviews'

Ensemble. Dramatic writing - Rex Harley attends a memorable performance of the Victoria Requiem

Four is hardly a crowd - Bill Newman enjoys an evening's entertainment by Piano 40 at London's Purcell Room, Wednesday 5 February 2003

Profile. A great schooling - Bill Newman talks to Igor Oistrakh as the 50th anniversary of the violinist's UK début approaches

Ensemble. Comic touches - Roderic Dunnett visits the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, for 'La Cenerentola'

A unique voice - Aspects of the music of Keith Barnard, by Gordon Rumson

No apologies - Peter Dale is impressed by Trevor Hold's new survey of 'The Second Golden Age of English Song'

Will I let this in? - Some thoughts on the music of Havergal Brian, from Aaron Rabushka

Nuggets of advice - Alice McVeigh's 'All Risks Musical', read by Keith Bramich

Record box. A different fellow - Clementi in musical flight, by Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight. A brave pianist - Music by Charles Ives played by Philip Mead, reviewed by Peter Dickinson. '... Mead's technique is consistently impressive.'

Ensemble. Compelling musicianship - A recital by Ildikó Iván and Tamás Vásáry, reported by Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight. Ideas in abundance - Johann Ludwig Krebs on Priory, appreciated by Robert Anderson. '... a performance at once robust and sensitive.'

CD Spotlight. A palpable reality - Gillian Weir plays Messiaen, and Robert Anderson is thrilled. '... exciting fidelity ...'

Ensemble. A frustrating experience - David Wilkins listens to the London Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in Eastbourne

Editor's inbox - a selection of our readers' letters

Scholarship and originality - David Bury explains the merits of Robert Anderson's new book 'Elgar and Chivalry'

Reality or invention? - Peter Dale reads from a Liverpool University symposium on the musical work

Ensemble. A memorable occasion - Martino Tirimo at London's Wigmore Hall, prefaced by other thoughts from Bill Newman

CD Spotlight. Subtlety of touch - Luiza Borac plays Schumann and Robert Anderson listens

CD Spotlight. Onward tread - Charles Wood's anthems, reviewed by Robert Anderson. '... vibrant in tone and firm as a rock ...'

Ensemble. Latin American blend - Malcolm Miller applauds Alberto Portugheis in recital

Record box. The Rags of Time - Basil Ramsey lingers over the delights of seventeenth century lute songs and dances

Behind the lines - On the 65th anniversary of Ivor Gurney's death, Roderic Dunnett takes a look at some First World War composers, and at an Imperial War Museum exhibition in London which pays tribute to Gurney and his fellow wartime poets

Ensemble. Affirmation of life - Malcolm Miller investigates the Yiddish tango

Ensemble. A night to remember - Roderic Dunnett is impressed by Strauss's 'Ariadne auf Naxos' at Covent Garden

Profile. A singing instrument - Martino Tirimo discusses the piano and its music with Bill Newman

Ensemble. Apotheosis of the madrigal - Roderic Dunnett enjoys 'L'incoronazione di Poppea' at London's Royal Academy of Music

Ensemble. Shostakovich and Beethoven Trios - Malcolm Miller enjoys the Stockholm Arts Trio's UK début

Book review. The narrator's function - McGuire's new book about Elgar's oratorios is investigated by Robert Anderson

A star is reborn - BBC Legends, passing its one hundredth release, is appreciated by John Bell Young

Ensemble. Purpose and insight - Malcolm Miller enjoys two outstanding débuts by German and Italian artists

Ensemble. Verging on London standards - Roderic Dunnett visits Dorset and Stowe Opera for productions of 'Norma' and 'Don Carlo'

Music matters - Gordon Rumson reads Wilfrid Mellers' book 'Singing in the Wilderness: Music and Ecology in the Twentieth Century'

Record box. Skewering demons - Concert works by film composers, played by the New Art Trio and reviewed by Keith Bramich

Ensemble. Russian resonance - The first of a new series of Music at the Wallace Collection

Ensemble. Hour of Magic - Malcolm Miller is enthralled by seldom-heard East European music

Site seeing. Boulez destroyed ... but is it art? - Keith Bramich takes a fresh look at the world of classical music online

Ensemble. Accendo - Music from the time of Claudio Monteverdi at a concert in Cardiff Castle, Wales, reviewed by Rex Harley

Second sight. Music with Wilfrid Mellers - The rough and the smooth

Ensemble. Warmth and communicability - Bernard Roberts' Romantic pianism launches the Glenilla concert season. Malcolm Miller listens

Provocative thoughts, from Patric Standford - conducting ourselves

Ensemble. Rule Britannia? - Gordon Rumson reports on New Works Calgary, Friday 13 September 2002

A tough task - Keith Bramich ponders on the art of the conductor, and attends the 2002 Donatella Flick Conducting Competition

Profile. Life in the old tiger - In the second of two articles about the Chisinau National Opera, Moldovan tenor Mihai Muntean talks to Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Miracle for Bohemia! - 'La clemenza di Tito' at Covent Garden, with Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Female insurgence - Roderic Dunnett visits Garsington Opera for a feast of Mozart, Rossini and rare Janácek

CD Spotlight. Un-buttoned Beecham - 'The Tales of Hoffmann' in a vintage performance enjoyed by Peter Dale. 'The recording is remarkably warm, surface noise minimal, characterisation lively, and orchestral playing spot on.'

CD Spotlight. Breach of conventions? - Handel's opera 'Tamerlano' in a new recording investigated by Peter Dale. '... absolutely convincing ...'

A new 'Enoch' - John Bell Young tells his story of collaboration with British actor Michael York

Record box. The mix - Basil Ramsey listens to Charlotte Brontë set over music

Ensemble. Waiting for Figaro - Bampton Classical Opera at London's St John's Smith Square, enjoyed by David Thompson

Ensemble. A haunting future - Roderic Dunnett praises two recent productions at newly restored Grange Park Opera

Record box. Golden tone - Keith Bramich listens to the bassoon virtuoso Gwydion Brooke

International forum - Patric Standford reports from the 2nd International Composers' Competition 'In memoriam Zoltán Kodály'

Record box. Cathedral setting - Howells in ecclesiastical mode, by Basil Ramsey

Ensemble. Of head and heart - David Thompson samples three symphonies from two international orchestras at the BBC Proms

Profile. Mouths to feed - Roderic Dunnett looks at the touring tradition of Chisinau National Opera and talks to Mihai Cocieru, the company's newly-promoted General Director

CD Spotlight. Two violas - Mozart's String Quintets, reviewed by Robert Anderson. 'The playing demonstrates the lovely range of tone colours the team can so readily deploy.'

Record box. Games - The fun side of music, with Basil Ramsey

Ensemble. Sitting pretty? - Walton, Sainsbury and Stanford at the Three Choirs Festival, reviewed by Keith Bramich

CD Spotlight. A well-chosen anthology - Listening to 'A Century of English Song', with Trevor Hold. 'Veira is particularly good ...'

Record box. The masque of pastiche - Trevor Hold listens to baritone songs by John Jeffreys

CD Spotlight. Style-modulation - A new British CD of American string quartets, reviewed by Peter Dickinson. '... this performance is superb advocacy.'

CD Spotlight. Much originality - John Field's Piano Concertos, explored by Robert Anderson. '... accomplished performances ...'

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey. Daily ritual - Switching nightmares for daymares

Ensemble. An American in Portugal - Malcolm Miller attends Nancy Lee Harper's recital of Portuguese piano music in London

Record box. Breadth and scope - Keith Bramich is impressed by Lionel Sainsbury's Twelve Preludes

Profile. An expression of emotion - English composer Lionel Sainsbury talks to Keith Bramich

Site seeing. Fasolt without Fafner - Keith Bramich visits new classical music websites: Fasolt, L'education musicale, the New Classical Portal, Musica Paraguaya, Classical Notes, Kipling settings, Sharma Musicals, Brandon Sturiale, Zeynep Ucbasaran and Beauty in Music

A Moment of Madness - Following the controversial acceptance (or infliction) by the English National Opera board of Nicholas Payne's resignation, Pamela Rosenberg, General Director of the San Francisco Opera, talks to Roderic Dunnett about the impact of the decision, and about the esteem in which Payne's leadership is held in Europe and the USA alike

Ensemble. A much loved conductor - Bernard Haitink's Farewell Concert at London's Royal Opera, as experienced by Robert Anderson

Ensemble. Unalloyed genius - Glyndebourne's recent 'Euryanthe' is fêted by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Full circle - Roderic Dunnett enjoys Verdi's 'Macbeth' at Covent Garden

Ensemble. They're off! - David Thompson was at the First Night of the Proms in London, 19 July 2002

Payne resigns - a slyly overcautious management board generates turmoil at English National Opera, by Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble. Celebration and Desolation - Andrew Campling, Musical Director of the London Docklands Singers, attended a Trio Melisma concert in London

Ensemble. Verismo al fresco - Malcolm Miller enjoys Opera Holland Park's double bill of 'Suor Angelica' and 'I Pagliacci'

Ensemble. Madrigal comedy - Keith Bramich enjoys I Fagiolini's performances of English and Italian music, old and new

Record box. Intriguing selection - Keith Bramich listens to contemporary music on the Vienna Modern Masters label

Record box. Wildlife in the Nursery - Keith Bramich comes face to face with the singing animals

Beautifully together - Roderic Dunnett enjoys the Ukrainian State Opera Company of Odessa's 'La Traviata'

Ensemble - Pivotal occasion - A triumphant homecoming in Kazakhstan, by Howard Smith

Ensemble - Jubilant 'Choral' Symphony for the Jubilee. Malcolm Miller at the penultimate London Soloists Chamber Orchestra 'Totally Beethoven' concert

From the heart - A tribute by Peter Dale to Wilfrid Mellers, for a unique life of music and letters

Record box - Music of quality. David Thompson listens to Gerard Schurmann's score for 'The Lost Continent'

Ensemble - Power of understatement. Roderic Dunnett at a new production of Euripides' tragedy 'Bacchae', with music by Sir Harrison Birtwistle

CD Spotlight - Constant enchantment. The 'Cantiones Sacrae' of Sweelinck, with Robert Anderson. 'The Clare College Choir under Timothy Brown has both the intensity and agility to encompass the varied moods of the music.'

Ensemble - Naughty but nice. David Thompson enjoys English National Opera's 'Lulu' at the London Coliseum

Second Sight - Music with Wilfrid Mellers - 15. Magic and Innocence. A double bill at Opera North. 'This production, given its musical values, must on no account be missed.'

Ensemble - Power and conviction. Malcolm Miller reviews the MIT Symphony Orchestra's concert at St John's Smith Square in London, including the first UK performance of 'Jubal' by Peter Child

Ensemble - Profoundly life-enhancing. Rex Harley experiences Janácek's 'The Cunning Little Vixen' in the current Welsh National Opera revival, on 24 May 2002 at Cardiff New Theatre, conducted by Sir Charles Mackerras

Site seeing - In another visit to the world of classical music websites, Keith Bramich muses on competition and diversity, and visits the websites of Salvador Clofent, Jan Hart, Duane Peck, A Gioele Simonetto, Bristol Music Services and Japanese composer Tsutomu Tagashira

CD Spotlight - Resplendent performance. Stokowski conducts Mendelssohn and Brahms, with David Thompson. 'They were clearly devoted to the old wizard, and they play their hearts out for him.'

Brilliant Beethoven - Malcolm Miller attends the Beethoven Piano Society of Europe Celebrity Concert, given by Bernard Roberts

Ensemble - Judge on the menu. Patric Standford attends the first night of Opera North's revival production of Sondheim's 'Sweeney Todd'

Ensemble - Totally Beethoven. Malcolm Miller attends a recent concert by the London Soloists Chamber Orchestra at the Purcell Room

Leonard Salzedo, 1921-2000 - Jennifer Paull marks the second anniversary on 6 May 2002 of the composer's death

A perceptive pianist - Bill Newman listens to Yoo Na Noh

Ensemble - a glorious dip in the grotesque. Roderic Dunnett at Welsh National Opera's revival of 'Salome'

Ensemble - imperial grandeur. Roderic Dunnett is impressed with a new production of 'The Queen of Spades'

Profile - music all the time. Bill Newman becomes reacquainted with young French cellist Gautier Capuçon

Ensemble - In virtuoso manner. Alice Neary and Gretel Dowdeswell at London's Wigmore Hall, heard by Bill Newman

A thoughtful response - Editor Basil Ramsey considers the part played by music during occasions of national mourning

Episodes from a memory bank - Gwydion Brooke. Bill Newman looks back at undeservedly neglected musicians.

Episodes from a memory bank - Basil Cameron. Bill Newman looks back at undeservedly neglected musicians.

Site seeing - Ludwig's torso ... another visit to the world of music websites, with Keith Bramich

CD Spotlight - A landmark. 'Beecham produces a performance redolent even now of passion and conviction ...' Delius's 'A Village Romeo and Juliet', explored by Peter Dale

Profile - A man of vision. Victor Herbert, the first composer to write for film, investigated by Jennifer Paull

Ensemble - Whistle stop tour. Malcolm Miller appreciates The Camden Choir's Renaissance Music

Mind my harpsichord! - In affectionate memory of Igor Kipnis, close friend and musical collaborator, by Bill Newman

Ensemble - Star performance. Malcolm Miller at Ware Operatic Society's 'La Traviata'

CD Spotlight - Bridging the day. 'Robert Irvine gives a consummate performance, technically amazing, and emotionally involving ...' Works for cello and piano by Sally Beamish, explored by David Thompson

Ensemble - A friend in need. The Opera Omnibus production of Mascagni's 'L'Amico Fritz', enjoyed by Roderic Dunnett

CD Spotlight - Day of judgement. '... Saint-Saëns is at his best, and the LPO under Geoffrey Simon enjoys chasing his every nuance.' Saint-Saëns Requiem, faced by Robert Anderson

CD Spotlight - Unquestioning faith. 'If Tavener can sometimes seem a victim of his own mannerisms, the performers under Paul Goodwin have done him proud.' A CD of John Tavener's choral music, considered by Robert Anderson

Reminiscent retrospectives - Geographical Gilbert and Surreal Sullivan, with Jennifer Paull

Ensemble - Quintessential quintet. Malcolm Miller admires the Etesian Ensemble's period performance concert with a Beethoven arrangement première

Reminiscent retrospectives - Wonderful walls, with Jennifer Paull

The northern Schubert - Roderic Dunnett explores the music of Carl Loewe

Reminiscent retrospectives - Meteorological obligati, with Jennifer Paull

Ensemble - Unlikely bedfellows? Malcolm Miller attends the UK première of a new work for string quartet and percussion

Ensemble - Maschinist Hopkins. Roderic Dunnett on a Max Brand UK première

Reminiscent retrospectives - Musical language, with Jennifer Paull

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey. Nourishment - the new year as a challenge

Ensemble - Cosseted by Robespierre. Roderic Dunnett visits London's Royal Opera House for a special performance of 'Tosca'

Ensemble - Swashbuckling parody. Roderic Dunnett attends the Hungarian première of Maxwell Davies's Expressionist opera 'Resurrection'

Reminiscent retrospectives - Trails and Euros, with Jennifer Paull

Record box - Duetting. A new CD of French music considered by Basil Ramsey

Site seeing - all change! with Keith Bramich

Impulse and space - Richard Hickox talks to Bill Newman at the 2001 Spoleto Festival

Profile - Being truthful to the music. Chenyin Li, the young Chinese winner of the 2001 Scottish International Piano Competition, talks to Keith Bramich about experiences, East and West

Reminiscent retrospectives - In a new series, international musician and writer Jennifer Paull shares some of her musical memories. September 11th 2001

CD Spotlight - Voice of an angel. 'A wonderful collection ...' Gillian Weir's Organ Master Series on Priory, with David Thompson

Ensemble - Masterly. Roderic Dunnett catches up with Glyndebourne Touring Opera's 'Rodelinda'

Celebratory Parade -

Ensemble - Eastern melisma. Malcolm Miller hears the Tel-Aviv Trio at London's Wallace Collection

Ensemble - Jauchzet, frohlocket! Malcolm Miller at Cholmeley Choral Society's Christmas Oratorio in London

Celebratory Parade -

Celebratory Parade -

MV3, with Gordon Rumson and Keith Bramich - Habermann, Buckle, Green and snagloopdog

Spiritual horizons - Jennifer Paull pays tribute to George Harrison, who died in November 2001

Celebratory Parade -

Ensemble - Truly chilling. David Thompson listens to Britten's 'War Requiem' in London

CD Spotlight - A marked contrast. 'Exemplary performances, excellent recording and presentation ...' Two piano quintets, with David Thompson

Provocative thoughts, from Patric Standford - Amateurs

Celebratory Parade -

Mussorgskian giant - Roderic Dunnett on the massive talents of the English composer and conductor Oliver Knussen

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - Spinning on - looking at art in an uneasy world ...

Celebratory Parade -

MV3, with Gordon Rumson and Keith Bramich - Film Musings

Striving heavenwards - Malcolm Miller attends the Kendall Taylor Memorial Concert

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - On being caught - back on the trail ...

CD Spotlight - Celtic twilight. '... there is a welcome simplicity and integrity about the playing.' Listening to Arnold Bax, with Robert Anderson

Teenage virtuoso - Malcolm Miller attends the impressive Wigmore Hall début of Singaporean violinist Min Lee

Whispers of heavenly death - Roderic Dunnett talks to Martin Lee-Browne about a newly-discovered Vaughan Williams setting of Walt Whitman (concluded from last week)

Whispers of heavenly death - Roderic Dunnett talks to Martin Lee-Browne about a newly-discovered Vaughan Williams setting of Walt Whitman

Site seeing - cultural enlightenment, with Keith Bramich

After tragedy - more letters received about music and the current international situation

Ensemble - Mixed results. A critical view of Chisinau National Opera's 'Carmen' from Roderic Dunnett

Ensemble - Styles of our time - Malcolm Miller at the world première of Stephen Dodgson's Trio No 3

MV3, with Gordon Rumson and Keith Bramich - M&V's monthly visit to the world of online music investigates the 'avant-garde'

Ensemble - Fresh and engaging. Roderic Dunnett reports on Chisinau National Opera's 'Turandot'

CD Spotlight - Symphonic matters. 'There is delicious writing along the way for woodwind and horns.' Attending to the symphony in 18th-century England, with Robert Anderson

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - Mere ramblings

CD Spotlight - An indispensable collection. '... indefatigably intelligent, sensitive and musical.' The final volume of Hyperion's Schubert Edition, explored by Peter Dale

Record box - Confident skill. Basil Ramsey listens to a choral composer at work

Record box - Full flower. Schubert lieder - Ian Bostridge with Julius Drake, by Basil Ramsey

Golden age - Peter Dickinson reviews two books on American music

After tragedy - letters received, including a comment from the Editor

Ensemble - In memory. Keith Bramich reports on a McCabe première, given as part of Japan 2001

The Name of the Game - Oboe d'Amore soloist Jennifer Paull meanders through the maze of musical instrument names

Record box - Two by two. Animals and music, with Basil Ramsey

Record box - Guitar scenario. Basil Ramsey hears a record from Christopher Parkening

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - Prom fever

Site seeing - It's all online ...

National ambition - Keith Bramich visits Wales for the opening concert of the 2001 Presteigne Festival

Iberian spice - Malcolm Miller attends a recital by Mats Lidström and Alberto Portugheis

Editorial musings with Basil Ramsey - Bach and Handel. Some thoughts

Editor's inbox - a selection of letters from our readers

Stage presence - Keith Bramich listens to soprano Anya Szreter in London's Regent Hall

Virtuoso demands - Robert Anderson listens to music by Poul Ruders, Lutoslawski and Sibelius in London's Royal Albert Hall

Cosmic Failure - Malcolm Miller on the world première of Tavener's 'Song of the Cosmos'

Many pleasures - Roderic Dunnett at Stowe Opera's Rusalka

Second Sight - Music with Wilfrid Mellers - Time and Truth. A new recording of a Handel oratorio (concluded from yesterday)

Second Sight - Music with Wilfrid Mellers - Time and Truth. 'The conductor, Rinaldo Alessandrini, handles the band with fierily precise discipline ...' A new recording of a Handel oratorio

Record box - A neglected vista. Basil Ramsey views Handel afresh

Record box - Basil Ramsey with Malcolm Arnold's symphonies

Proms before the Proms - Malcolm Miller attended two concerts by Israeli artists in a recent music festival in North London

Record box - The Kirkby sound. Handel from a special voice, with Basil Ramsey

Record box - Invention. Flute and piano, with Basil Ramsey

Record box - Musical manners. Basil Ramsey listens to Robert King's performances of Johann Schelle

New twists - Malcolm Miller listens to American pianist John Robilette

Excited by music - Flautist Kathryn Thomas in conversation with Keith Bramich

Record box - Trawling for treasure. Bill Newman seeks out Golden Age performers now reinstated on CD. Sviatoslav Richter on BBC Legends

Record box - Trawling for treasure - Menuhin and Rostropovich -

Record box - Trawling for treasure. Bill Newman seeks out Golden Age performers now reinstated on CD. Annie Fischer, Menuhin and Rostropovich on BBC Legends

MV3 - fragments of forgotten sounds - page 4 -

MV3 - fragments of forgotten sounds - page 3 -

MV3 - fragments of forgotten sounds - page 2 -

MV3 - fragments of forgotten sounds - take Gordon Rumson's world tour!

Distinction and imagination - Malcolm Miller attended a recent concert by violinist Grigory Zhislin

Record box - The ravishing factor. Basil Ramsey spends 131 minutes with Mozart

Engagingly accessible - Malcolm Miller reports on the UK première of Peter Breiner's jazzy Piano Trio

Second Sight. Music with Wilfrid Mellers - Celestial Voices. An early songbook on CD

Dame Moura Lympany - A personal tribute by Bill Newman (concluded from last week)

Dame Moura Lympany - A personal tribute by Bill Newman (continued from last week)

Dame Moura Lympany - A personal tribute by Bill Newman

Record box - Knowing Knüpfer. A pre-Bach notable, with Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight - Beautiful moments. '... "The World" and the six short Russian songs show Tavener at his best ...' The Vanbrugh Quartet plays John Tavener, with Patric Standford

Remarkable young ensembles - Patric Standford attended the UK's National Young Musicians' Festival

Paradise Moscow - Opera North's new production of the Shostakovitch musical at the Grand Theatre, Leeds, UK. Patric Standford was at the first night ...

Record box - Trawling for treasure. Bill Newman seeks out Golden Age performers now reinstated on CD. BBC Legends and Beecham

Record box - Trawling for treasure. Dennis Brain on BBC Legends

Second sight. Music with Wilfrid Mellers. - Private passion and public hauteur. Reporting on Opera North's current production of 'Eugene Onegin'

Creating 'The Emperor's Orchestra' - Patric Standford's diary for this recent commission (concluded from last week), including a chance to ask questions of Patric

Creating 'The Emperor's Orchestra' - Patric Standford's diary for this recent commission (continued from last week)

Creating 'The Emperor's Orchestra' - Patric Standford's diary for this recent commission

MV3, with Gordon Rumson and Keith Bramich - M&V's monthly visit to the world of online music

Japanese tone painting - Takemitsu, Schumann and Musorgsky. Malcolm Miller at a recent recital by Noriko Ogawa

The Ring in Chemnitz - Robert Anderson pays a visit

CD Spotlight - Merry or sad. '... New College ... can produce English chapel singing at its best, both sensitive and robust.' The 'worthy' William Boyce, with Robert Anderson

CD Spotlight - Power and virtuosity. '... a powerful (in every sense) take on these endlessly rewarding works ...' Kovacevich plays Beethoven, with David Wilkins

Record box - Saint-Saëns and Seki. An Admirable partnership, with Basil Ramsey

Lithuanian fascination - Malcolm Miller attends a special piano recital

Joining threads - Monica McCabe tells the story of the collaboration between David Bintley and John McCabe

Beguiling interpretations - Liszt transcriptions in performance - a London début recital, with Malcolm Miller

Paying tribute - The Editor's Quarterly Surprise

Cultural flowering - Malcolm Miller in conversation with Hanna Munitz, General Director of New Israeli Opera (concluded from last week)

Cultural flowering - Malcolm Miller in conversation with Hanna Munitz, General Director of New Israeli Opera

Record box - Give and Take. Basil Ramsey enjoys companion organ CDs

Variations - Malcolm Miller attended the Sixth Annual Jacqueline du Pré Concert in London

MV3, with Gordon Rumson and Keith Bramich - M&V's monthly visit to the world of online music

Second sight - The Tyrant as Hero. Wilfrid Mellers, reflecting on a Handel opera (concluded from last week)

Second sight - The Tyrant as Hero. Wilfrid Mellers, reflecting on a Handel opera

Site seeing - Linking with Plymouth, plus a sneak preview of M&V's new links page, with Keith Bramich

CD Spotlight - Absolutely idiomatic. '... his expressiveness is faultless.' Schumann's Dichterliebe and other Heine settings, with Peter Dale

CD Spotlight - Smyth's Mass. 'The musical ideas are often bold ...' A disc in the EMI British Composers' series, with Peter Dale

CD Spotlight - Magical stuff. '... Gamba is remarkably successful ...' The film music of Alan Rawsthorne, with Roderic Dunnett

Site seeing - Silver discs - record labels online, with Keith Bramich

CD Spotlight - An ingenious person. '... the Apollo Consort is wonderfully alert and sensitive.' John Jenkins admired by Robert Anderson

Record box - Absolute partnership. Finding choral sensitivity, with Basil Ramsey

Site seeing - Snow White and the 7th Virus - websites recommended by our readers, with Keith Bramich

Songs of Ashes - The music of Julian Dawes on Holocaust Day, with Malcolm Miller

CD Spotlight - Perfectly paced. 'Valerie Tryon is an excellent pianist and musician who grasps the style of these pieces beautifully ... her sound and phrasing are gorgeous.' Valerie Tryon performs the music of Ignaz Friedman, with Gordon Rumson

CD Spotlight - From rags to riches. '... clear purpose and technical prowess.' Peter Dickinson's music, with Basil Ramsey

What did you say you play? - Jennifer Paull writes about her love affair with the Oboe d'Amore

What did you say you play? - Jennifer Paull writes about her love affair with the Oboe d'Amore (continued from last week)

Venetian Splendour - Trevor Pinnock and the English Concert, with Malcolm Miller

Record box - A maverick streak. Nielsen at his best, with Basil Ramsey

Sympathetic strings - An introduction to the Viola d'Amore, with Thomas Georgi

Summer Opera Reviews - Roderic Dunnett looks back at a thumping good summer for opera festivals in Britain and Ireland. Part 4 - Mr Emmet Takes a Walk

Summer Opera Reviews - Roderic Dunnett looks back at a thumping good summer for opera festivals in Britain and Ireland. Part 3 - Bampton, White Horse and Dorset

Summer Opera Reviews - Roderic Dunnett looks back at a thumping good summer for opera festivals in Britain and Ireland. Part 2 - Longborough, Buxton and Garsington

Bizarrely stirring - David Wilkins listens to the Polish State Opera of Wroclaw

Planning your collection - William Primrose -

Planning your collection - Zoltan Kodaly -

Sing English Song - A Practical Approach to the Language and the Repertoire. Stephen Varcoe's book is reviewed by Roderic Dunnett

Summer Opera Reviews - Roderic Dunnett looks back at a thumping good summer for opera festivals in Britain and Ireland. Read from part 1 - Castleward, Wexford and Stowe

Berlin Festival Diary - Five weeks condensed into three, with Bill Newman (concluded from last week)

Berlin Festival Diary - Five weeks condensed into three, with Bill Newman (continued from last week)

Berlin Festival Diary - Five weeks condensed into three, with Bill Newman, including 'Light shining through' - an interview with Yaara Tal

CD Spotlight - Popular esteem. 'Chorus and orchestra under Christoph Spering respond splendidly, as do the soloists, to all Haydn's demands.' 'Seven Last Words', with Robert Anderson

CD Spotlight - A paean of rejoicing. '... a sunburst carrying the listener forward and upwards to new quests of achievement.' Bax's Fifth Symphony with Bill Newman

CD Spotlight - A thing of beauty. '... David Lloyd-Jones and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra spontaneously reach new poetic-dramatic heights ...' Bax's Third Symphony with Bill Newman

Record box - Irresistible beauty - Anonymous 4, with Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight - Rarity in performance. '... the playing is lively and full of spirit, and this disc is to be recommended.' Works for 2 harpsichords with David Ponsford

CD Spotlight - Tremendous Engagement. '... the listener who attends carefully to this disc will be handsomely rewarded.' Adrian Williams on record, with Peter Dale

The lost chord - Newly furbished as a recital instrument, London's Royal Festival Hall organ was re-launched on 19 October. Shirley Ratcliffe was there and was in for a surprise.

Record Box - Over the hills - Delius before the first cuckoo, with Basil Ramsey

Luminous setting - Shirley Ratcliffe attends a John Tavener première

CD Spotlight - A sense of balance. '... authoritative and splendid performances ...' Hummel back in the light, with Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight - Bruch rarities. '... the orchestral accompaniment transcends the accepted harmonic idiom, interspersed with Elizabeth Whitehouse's serene arias ...' Should we allow biased opinions to sway musical judgement? with Bill Newman

Record Box - Manners of clothing - At ease with the sacred, with Basil Ramsey

Editorial musings - Noise ... on facing the unavoidable, with Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight - Unknown gems. 'Throughout, Varcoe and Benson give musicianly, affectionate performances ...' Two Hyperion albums of Stanford's songs, with Trevor Hold

Second sight - Music with Wilfrid Mellers - The Sun King - Lully's musical homage

Record box - Blowing to good purpose - Brass in consort, with Basil Ramsey

Record box - Fruits of Glory - young composers in church, with Basil Ramsey

Record box - Spirit and polish - Hymns in demonstration, with Basil Ramsey

Brave New World - Bill Newman reads 'Eric Leinsdorf on Music'

Neapolitan uprising - Roderic Dunnett was at Dorset Opera's recent production of 'Salvator Rosa'

Record Box - Vivaldi in season - Fruitful music, with Basil Ramsey

Planning your collection - Global Fascinations and Sophistications - Emma Johnson; Martinu string quartets, with Bill Newman

Editorial musings - Fruits of the best - with Basil Ramsey

Record Box - Skilful manoeuvres - The art of John Gardner, with Basil Ramsey

CD Spotlight - Renaissance. 'Jennifer Paull gives sparkling performances.' The oboe d'amore revitalised - with Basil Ramsey.

Record Box - Planning your collection - Dvorak, British light music, Swedish orchestral favourites, Gilbert and Sullivan -

By the way - 'British melodies' with Richard Graves

Vivid and sparkling music theatre -

Editorial Musings with Basil Ramsey - The outlook - shocking talk. What shape are we musicians in for the next 100 years?

Love, harmony and beauty - oboist Stella Dickinson talks to Bill Newman -

Record Box - Love's Lore - Bill Newman enthuses over new folk song settings

One of the most modest of men - British composer Leonard Salzedo died on 6 May

Separating fact from fiction - Mike Harth reads Peter Dickinson's book 'Marigold: The Music of Billy Mayerl'

Presteigne notes - Further news from the continuing Presteigne Festival in Wales

McCabe in Conversation - Presteigne Festival composer in residence John McCabe talks to the Chief Music Critic of the Birmingham Post, Christopher Morley

Book Review - Peter Dale explores James Day's Englishness in Music