Classical Music Daily — all articles published in 2023

 

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

CD Spotlight. A Phenomenal Reaction — Gerald Fenech admires Solti's Decca Ring Project. 'John Culshaw died on 27 April 1980 ... but his spirit lives on in this perfect marriage of art and technology.'

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

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

CD Spotlight. The Community Behind the Voice — John Dante Prevedini listens to music by Robert Carl and John McDonald. '... a rich, joyous and life-affirming tribute to the role of community in shaping the artistic voice.'

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

Classical music news - American Invention — The New York Virtuoso Singers present a February 2023 concert of first performances

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Extraordinary Adventures

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

Ensemble. Don Carlo in the Mists — Giuseppe Pennisi visits Florence for a performance of Verdi's most complex and monumental opera

Classical music news - A New Organ in Poland — Iveta Apkalna gives the first performance of Esa-Pekka Salonen's Organ Concerto to inaugurate the new organ in Katowice's NOSPR Concert Hall

Classical music news. Obituary — José Evangelista (1943-2023)

Ensemble. Osborn Triumphs in 'Elisir' — Giuseppe Pennisi is back in his usual seat at Teatro dell'Opera di Roma for Donizetti's melodramma giocoso

Ensemble. Total Immersion — Ron Bierman listens to Anne Akiko Meyers, Domingo Hindoyan and the San Diego Symphony

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Sound Below Zero

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

Ensemble. Not To Be Missed — Giuseppe Pennisi reports from a performance of Vivaldi's pastiche 'Tamerlano'

CD Spotlight. Finnish Magic and Mystery — Orchestral music inspired by the Kalevala impresses Gerald Fenech. '... spectacular stuff, full of vivid imagery and larger than life characters woven in a tapestry of harmonic splendour ...'

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

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

Classical music news - Juliane Banse — The German soprano will be the new head professor of voice at Madrid's Reina Sofía School of Music for 2023-24

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

Ensemble. Twentieth Century Colours — Giuseppe Pennisi is impressed by a concert given by the orchestra of the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia

CD Spotlight. Challenges Aplenty — Music by Francesco Veracini, strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... Federico Guglielmo rises to the occasion with an awareness that is enthusiastically sensitive ...'

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

Classical music news. February 2023 New Releases — Browse a large selection of new recordings

Profile. Fascination with the Macabre — Ron Bierman talks to opera composer Nicolas Reveles

Ensemble. Precious Testimony — Giuseppe Pennisi listens to the complete string quartets of Dmitri Shostakovich

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Turn that racket down!

Ensemble. Absolute Brahms — Nineteenth century chamber music in Rome, heard by Giuseppe Pennisi

Classical music news. Obituary — Easley Blackwood (1933-2023)

Classical music news. February 2023 Newsletter — Our February 2023 PDF newsletter has just been published

Ensemble. Almost as Verdi would have Wanted — Giuseppe Pennisi was in the audience for 'Aida'

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

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

Ensemble. Rediscovering Scriabin — Italian pianist Mariangela Vacatello plays Scriabin from memory, heard by Giuseppe Pennisi

Classical music news. Animal Farm — Dutch National Opera's Opera Forward Festival explores uncharted territory, plus Conlon Collective news

CD Spotlight. Simply Mesmerizing — Riccardo Chailly conducts Verdi choruses, impressing Gerald Fenech. '... oozing energy from beginning to end.'

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

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. Obituary — Hilary Tann (1947-2023)

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — What's in a number?

CD Spotlight. Simply Unmissable — Recordings of Renée Fleming at New York Metropolitan Opera impress Gerald Fenech. '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. 'Doktor Faust' returns to Florence — Giuseppe Pennisi reports on Ferruccio Busoni's opera

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

Profile. Creativity, Imagination and Curiosity — Ron Bierman talks to American mezzo Stephanie Blythe

Ensemble. A Meditation on Human Fragility — Giuseppe Pennisi reports on a special performance in Rome of Verdi's Requiem

Ensemble. Puccini Duo — Ron Bierman was in the audience for San Diego Opera's 'Suor Angelica' and 'Gianni Schicchi'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — A short night at the opera

Ensemble. Do You like Chung? — Myung-whun Chung conducts Brahms symphonies, heard by Giuseppe Pennisi

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

Astounding! — An open letter to a great artist, from Esdras Mugatik

CD Spotlight. The Piano Turned Inside-Out — John Dante Prevedini considers Carlos Cipa's new release a triumph. '... a remarkably fresh and distinctive pianistic listening experience ...'

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 ...'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Going for a Song

CD Spotlight. Clear Melodic Simplicity — Geoff Pearce listens to guitar music by Antonio Lauro. 'I recommend this recording to anyone who loves and appreciates fine classical guitar playing ...'

Classical music news. March 2023 New Releases — Browse a large selection of new recordings

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

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

CD Spotlight. Songful and Inventive — Franz Schubert's Mass in A flat, recorded in Stuttgart and enthusiastically recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... evocative, passionate and often gloriously mystical ...'

CD Spotlight. Musicians On the Road — Giuseppe Pennisi examines the Passacaglia and listens to a new Erato disc. 'The interpreters, Philippe Jaroussky and Christina Pluhar's l'Arpeggiata, are excellent.'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Champions of Oblivion

CD Spotlight. A Pleasant Surprise — Schubert songs with orchestral accompaniments, highly recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'An absolute peach of a disc where everything falls into place with astute precision.'

CD Spotlight. Plenty of Spanish Sunshine — Spanish music of a bygone era, reviewed by Paul Sarcich. '... poised playing and excellent interweaving of the various wind sounds.'

Profile. A Fascinating Background and Career — Ron Bierman pays tribute to the late Nicolas Reveles, in the second part of his interview with the composer

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

CD Spotlight. A Compelling Account — Stravinsky for orchestra, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. 'Mäkelä and the Orchestre de Paris share a compelling vision in both works, and are on their very best form.'

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

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — The Departed

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

CD Spotlight. Unjustifiably Neglected — Gerald Fenech is impressed with orchestral music by Carlos Gomes. 'I encourage you to invest in this beautiful album which will definitely sweep you off your feet.'

Ensemble. A Bloody Story of Jealousy — Giuseppe Pennisi witnesses great success for Franco Zeffirelli's return to Rome

CD Spotlight. Lush and Tender — Geoff Pearce recommends a new recording of orchestral music and songs by Franz Schreker. '... these performances make a very compelling case to perform Schreker's music much more often.'

Ensemble. Visits to the Doctor — Ron Bierman appreciates music by John Adams, Mozart and Rachmaninov from Ingrid Fliter, Edo de Waart and the San Diego Symphony

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

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Randomness Run Riot

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

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

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

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

Profile. Big Roles — Ron Bierman talks to American soprano Michelle Bradley

CD Spotlight. Consistently Vibrant — Gerald Fenech listens to orchestral music by German composer Paul Lincke. '... full of striking melodies, rapturous harmonic beauty and often exuberantly dance-like gestures ...'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Behind the Wall of Sleep

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'

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

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

Ensemble. Appealing Voices with Exceptional Power — Ron Bierman is entertained by San Diego Opera's production of Puccini's 'Tosca'

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

Classical music news. April 2023 Newsletter — Our 1 April 2023 PDF newsletter has just been published

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

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

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.'

CD Spotlight. Sheer Effectiveness — Joseph Bologne's opera 'L'Amant Anonyme', recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Craig Trompeter and his team deliver some truly memorable performances full of vocal brilliance imbued with passion and excitement ...'

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

CD Spotlight. In a Class of its Own — Recordings of Clara and Robert Schumann's piano concertos impress Gerald Fenech. 'Beatrice Rana's magical playing is complimented by incisive support from Yannick Nézet-Séguin and his Chamber Orchestra of Europe ...'

CD Spotlight. New and Refreshing — Geoff Pearce is impressed by the music of contemporary Swedish composer Britta Byström. 'There is a sincerity about this music that speaks directly to the soul.'

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — A spot of circumnavigation on a Sunday afternoon

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

Ensemble. An Elegy for Mother Earth — Adam J Sacks listens to John Luther Adams' 'Vespers of the Blessed Earth'

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.'

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. 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.'

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

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Per Giuseppe

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

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.'

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

CD Spotlight. All Praise — Nielsen symphonies, enthusiastically recommended by Gerald Fenech. 'Maybe the best set ever of Nielsen's symphonic cycle in immaculate sound quality and sumptuous presentation.'

Ensemble. Crushing Pathos — Ron Bierman listens to Nicolas Reveles' 'Ghosts'

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

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

CD Spotlight. The Collective as Artist — John Dante Prevedini listens to new music from the Danish music collective Damkapellet

CD Spotlight. Tremendously Vivid — Gerald Fenech listens to Volume 27 of Hänssler Classic's Haydn symphonies series. '... Klumpp's utter dedication to the project shines brightly with an intensity that makes the music leap from its pages.'

Classical music news. May 2023 New Releases — Browse a large selection of new recordings

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

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

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — The home country grown strange

Classical music news. May 2023 Newsletter — Our May 2023 PDF newsletter has just been published

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

CD Spotlight. Jack-of-All-Trades — Gerald Fenech listens to recordings by the Danish conductor Emil Reesen. '... full of dash and spirit ...'

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 ...'

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

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

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — Rough winds do shake

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

CD Spotlight. A Marriage between Drama and Comedy — Gerald Fenech is impressed by recordings of five Mozart operas. '... I have never heard Mozart played with such finesse and beauty.'

Ensemble. A Backwards Bohème — Adam J Sacks reports from Opera Philadelphia

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

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.'

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

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — A hundred not out

CD Spotlight. More Operatic than Liturgical — Geoff Pearce listens to Mercadante's Messa Solenne. '... a most welcome recording of music by what is today a relatively little-known composer.'

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

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 ...'

Ensemble. Byrd in Context — Mike Wheeler hears The Sixteen

CD Spotlight. Freshness and Vitality — Geoff Pearce explores the music of Paul von Klenau. '... a most welcome recording of music by what is today a relatively little-known composer.'

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

Echoes of Oblivion by Robert McCarney — More corn than gold

CD Spotlight. Immense Dramatic Power — Gerald Fenech listens to Berlioz. '... an interpretation overflowing with passion and flair ...'

Classical music news. June 2023 New Releases — Browse a large selection of new recordings

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 ...'

Classical music news. Davidsbündler Feest — Celebrate the Davidsbündler Music Academy's successful first year

Ensemble. Undeniable Brilliance and Thrills — Ron Bierman listens to Brahms, Dvořák and Gity Razaz

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 ...'

The Oblivionopolis Audio Quiz — Extracts from a dozen obscure twentieth century works ... can you guess the composers and the works?

CD Spotlight. Quite Eclectic — Chamber music by Joachim Mendelson and Grażina Bacewicz, heard by Geoff Pearce. '... insight, commitment and verve.'

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

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

Classical music news. June 2023 Newsletter — Our June 2023 PDF newsletter has just been published

CD Spotlight. Ticking All the Boxes — Geoff Pearce is delighted by a new recording of two Ravel works. 'A thrilling orchestra, inspired direction, a great cast of singers, two Ravel masterworks, sumptuous recorded sound and a most informative booklet ...'

Classical music news. Obituary — Kaija Saariaho (1952-2023)

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

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 ...'

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

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

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. 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.'

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

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.'

CD Spotlight. A More Advanced Creed — Adolphe Adam's ballet 'Orfa', passionately recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... really arresting playing full of joy and rhythmic beauty.'

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 ...'

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

CD Spotlight. Saariaho's Last Gift — John Dante Prevedini is impressed by BIS Records' tribute to the Finnish composer

Agnesi — A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

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

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

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.'

CD Spotlight. Heavy Going — Anton Rubinstein piano concertos Nos 3 and 5, heard by Stephen Francis Vasta. 'Anna Shelest does what she can with the material - her big chords are resonant, and her sparkling arpeggios delightful ...'

CD Spotlight. Impassioned Advocacy — Music by Pasquale Anfossi, highly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... animated performances full of verve and spirit.'

Classical music news. July 2023 New Releases — Browse a large selection of new recordings

Classical music news. Making the world safe for small pianists — The Stretto Piano Festival and other forthcoming events, including the Verbier, Berkshire High Peaks, Presteigne and Oxford International Song festivals

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

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

CD Spotlight. Tremendously Moving — Well-known and less well-known French choral music, recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... performances are full of profound grandeur ...'

Profile. The Self-Assured Conductor — Anett Fodor tells the story of Arthur Nikisch, from his Hungarian roots to international acclaim

Ensemble. Joy Indeed — Beethoven's Choral Symphony at the University of California San Diego impresses Ron Bierman

Classical music news. July 2023 Newsletter — Our July 2023 PDF newsletter has just been published

Ensemble. Energising Freshness and Exuberance — Malcolm Miller listens to string quartets by three émigré Austrian-born composers

Profile. Allan Rae: Three Symphonies — A detailed look at some astounding music by one of Canada's great composers

Ensemble. An Evening of Marvelous Musical Variety — Ron Bierman listens to Pacho Flores, Rafael Payare and the San Diego Symphony Orchestra playing music by Roberto Sierra, Bernstein and Rachmaninov

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

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

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. The Space as an Instrument — John Dante Prevedini listens to the fine sonic details of music by the late Alvin Lucier

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

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 Trailblazer of Classical Expression — Anett Fodor encourages music enthusiasts to experience 'Il Boemo – The Czech'. '... a gateway, unveiling hidden treasures from a bygone era.'

CD Spotlight. Hugely Attractive Music — Gerald Fenech listens to a reissue of cello concertos by Haydn and Monn. '... simple but masterfully crafted, spouting melody at every turn.'

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

Classical music news. Obituary — André Watts (1946-2023)

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

Caccini — A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

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

CD Spotlight. Startlingly Fresh and Very American — Patrick Maxwell is impressed by Maurice Abravanel and the Utah Symphony Orchestra's Tchaikovsky. '... impassioned string playing and vibrant conducting.'

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

CD Spotlight. Lovable Rogues? — Paul Sarcich delves into the output of the Belgian equivalent of 'Les Six'. 'These largely unknown composers have been brought back to life by excellent preparation and performance ...'

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

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

CD Spotlight. Haydn's 'Turkish' Soundworld — Gerald Fenech explores the composer's seventh opera, 'L'Incontro Improvviso'. '... excellent throughout ...'

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

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

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

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

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

CD Spotlight. A Moravian in Vienna — Keith Bramich listens to Wranitzky sinfonias. '... sprightly and intelligently played readings ...'

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

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

Ensemble. Unexpected Pleasures — Ron Bierman was at the opening of La Jolla Music Society's Summerfest season

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

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

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

CD Spotlight. Awesome Power — Orchestral music from Finland, strongly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... energetic performances that consistently engage the listener ...'

CD Spotlight. Layers of Visibility — John Dante Prevedini considers an important release of music by female Korean composers. '... a prime example of grassroots leadership in the vital cause of making the field of music composition more open to the full spectrum of composers.'

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

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

CD Spotlight. Masterly Intuition — Gerald Fenech gives the thumbs up to Danacord's Thomas Jensen Legacy Volume 15. '... unfettered enthusiasm and emotional gusto.'

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

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

Classical music news - Alberta in Harmony — A brief look at the 2023/24 season of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra

CD Spotlight. Gripping, Compelling Work — Geoff Pearce is impressed by Canadian composer Evan Ware's symphonies. '... assured technique, passion, agility and grace ...'

CD Spotlight. Full of Warmth and Devotion — Gerald Fenech unreservedly recommends Helmuth Rilling's recordings of the J S Bach secular cantatas. '... this eight CD set will prove to be a revelation ...'

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 - Rossini Opera Festival — The programme for next year's Rossini Opera Festival in Pesaro is announced during this year's festival

CD Spotlight. Beyond Recommendation — Gerald Fenech welcomes Rachmaninov orchestral music from the Philadelphia Orchestra and Yannick Nézet-Séguin on Deutsche Grammophon. 'Intensity, ebullience, vibrancy, passion and realism are the ingredients of these performances ...'

CD Spotlight. Masterfully Orchestrated — Geoff Pearce listens to Berlioz, Ravel and Saint-Saëns from Canadian soprano Marie-Nicole Lemieux. '... the soloist and the Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo conducted by Kazuki Yamada are on top form ...'

Corroboree — A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

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 Landmark Recording — Music for cello and orchestra by Weinberg and Dutilleux, highly recommended by Geoff Pearce. '... immediately one is struck by the fine solo cello of Edgar Moreau ...'

CD Spotlight. Vibrant and Adventurous — Gerald Fenech listens to more recordings by the Danish conductor Thomas Jensen. '... another jewel in the Thomas Jensen treasure-trove ...'

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

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

CD Spotlight. Rethinking First Impressions — John Dante Prevedini listens to piano music by Mexican composer José F Vásquez. '... we are urged by releases like this to rethink our approach to composers like Vásquez ...'

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 - 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 Bernstein No One Has Heard — John Dante Prevedini is impressed by a new release of early chamber music by Bernstein and Copland. '... thoughtfully curated and meticulously executed.'

Spreading Light and Making Darkness Vanish — Luiza Catrinel Marinescu remembers her classmate, the Romanian pianist Eugen Alcalay and explores the pianist's mother's book 'Rhapsody in black and white with Leonard Bernstein'

Classical music news. September 2023 New Releases — Browse a large selection of new recordings

Classical music news. September 2023 Newsletter — Our September 2023 PDF newsletter, 'A Spiritual Journey', has just been published

CD Spotlight. Grace and Elegance — Italian concertos heard by Gerald Fenech. 'Boundless enjoyment from beginning to end.'

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

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

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

CD Spotlight. Truly Unique — Patrick Maxwell pays homage to a 1955 Parsifal from the Bayreuth Festival. 'All these impressive voices, heard here in their prime, combined with Knappertsbusch's wonderful orchestra, make a sound which is truly intimate and doubly intense.'

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

CD Spotlight. Expressive and Virtuosic — Music by Todd Mason, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. 'The Budapest Scoring Orchestra, conductor Péter Illényi and soloist Tosca Opdam are all very committed to this music and obviously enjoy performing it.'

Classical music news - A Bridge Between Genres — Beethovenfest Bonn features the first appearance of Israeli-American conductor Yoel Gamzou's new kind of orchestra, bridging genres and playing 50% first performances

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

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.'

Classical music news - The Compleat Busoni and other delights — A book launch, first performance and signing will take place this month in Canberra, Australia

Classical music news - Pacifica Quartet — The Pacifica Quartet returns as Don Michael Randel ensemble-in-residence at Chicago University

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

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

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

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.'

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. 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.'

Spotlight. Plain Strange — Patrick Maxwell watches and listens to the new Deutsche Grammophon Blu-Ray disc of Wagner's 'Götterdämmerung' from Bayreuth. 'The singing and the playing are largely excellent, but this is not the greatest production available ...'

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

Spotlight. Imaginative and Colourful — Gerald Fenech finds the latest in Chandos Records' series of film music mouth-watering. 'Performances are consistently alive, vibrant and rhythmically exciting, and Marco Albonetti's virtuosity makes the music sound even more passionate and intense.'

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 ...'

Szymanowska — A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

Spotlight. The Wild and the Mild — Gerald Fenech finds the Bucharest Symphony Orchestra and conductor John Axelrod's new recording of contrasting versions of Robert Schumann's Symphony No 4 in D minor preciously invaluable. 'Performances, sound quality and presentation are a credit to the Orchid Classics label.'

Spotlight. Shostakovich at his Sardonic Best — Geoff Pearce listens to symphonies by Dmitri Shostakovich connected to the year 1917. '... a very interesting and fine set.'

Spotlight. A Gloriously Captivating Voice — Gerald Fenech listens to tenor Jonathan Tetelman singing Puccini. '... a must for all Puccini fans ...'

Classical music news - Quebec Appointment for Strategic Reflection — Composer Simon Bertrand is appointed as interim artistic director of the Société de musique contemporaine du Québec

Classical music news - Echoes of the Ages — History in the making: orchestral performance in Iceland of instruments made entirely by Hans Jóhannsson

Classical music news - A New Worker-owned Cooperative — American classical recording company Soundmirror has transitioned to employee ownership

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

Spotlight. A Complete Triumph — Gerald Fenech is exhilarated by the Philadelphia Orchestra's recording of symphonies by Florence Price and William Dawson. '... a vibrant energy that makes the music sound as fresh and exciting as when it was first heard.'

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

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

Classical music news. New Releases for October 2023 and Later — Browse a large selection of new recordings

Classical music news. World New Music Days — The International Society for Contemporary Music takes World New Music Days to South Africa for the very first time

Classical music news. Klein String Competition — Applications open on 1 November 2023 for the 2024 Irving M Klein International String Competition

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. Obituary — Maurice Bourgue (1939-2023)

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.'

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

Spotlight. Dance Rhythms and Vibrant Melodies — Gerald Fenech listens to an unusual combination of works by Antonín Dvořák. '... Dvořák's Piano Concerto is made to sound as convincing as the composer might have wished.'

Spotlight. East meets West — Geoff Pearce enjoys music from Türkiye and its neighbouring countries. 'Immediately one is struck by the sensitivity, technical proficiency and joy of these two performers, flautist Nicole Esposito and harpist Çağatay Akyol.'

Spotlight. Gorgeously Resplendent Playing — Gerald Fenech finds Andris Nelsons' recordings of Bruckner's symphonies simply outstanding. '... all the mystery and grandeur of these works are exposed in translucent music making.'

Spotlight. A Fine Recording — Geoff Pearce listens to cello sonatas by Evan Fein and Johannes Brahms. '... I particularly enjoyed the new sonata by Evan Fein.'

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

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

Spotlight. A Glorious Listening Experience — Seven orchestral works by Camille Saint-Saëns, warmly recommended by Gerald Fenech. '... a thrilling and vibrant journey of melodic invention.'

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

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

Melikyan — A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

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.'

The Magnanimity of Michael Tilson Thomas — Jeffrey Neil reflects on a performance of Beethoven's Choral Symphony

Spotlight. Most Innovative and Interesting — Music for horn, enjoyed by Geoff Pearce. '... one cannot help but be impressed with the performances, the power of the music and what it is expressing ...'

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

Ensemble. An Outstanding Concert — Ron Bierman listens to chamber music by Haydn, Ravel, Mendelssohn and Dvořák from Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Lisa Batiashvili and Gautier Capuçon

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.'

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

Classical music news. New Releases for November 2023 and Later — Browse a selection of new recordings

Spotlight. Considerable Variety — Geoff Pearce listens to music by Harry Ore, played by Zhaoyi Long. 'Zhaoyi Long's playing generally was beautiful and she brought the character of these pieces to life.'

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

Spotlight. An Entrancing Programme — Gerald Fenech strongly recommends eighteenth century music for harp, played by Xavier de Maistre. 'At times mystical, at others immensely relaxing and uplifting, this is music coming down from above that soothes the soul and calms the mind.'

Ensemble. Thoroughly Enjoyable — Ron Bierman listens to a concert given by Latonia Moore and J'Nai Bridges, with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra and conductor Bruce Stasyna

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. 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

Classical music news. National Contemporary Orchestra — The USA has a new professional orchestra

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

Spotlight. Engaging, Interesting and Thoughtful — Endre Anaru is inspired by Francesco Cera's performance of The Well-Tempered Clavier: Part 1, Book 1. 'He gives voice to the voices and instead of just a dry plain reading we hear an enlivened elocution. It is as if he recited the music for us.'

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

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

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

Spotlight. Nonexistence Reconsidered — John Dante Prevedini listens to a recording of John Aylward's opera 'Oblivion'. '... enigmatic and philosophically challenging ...'

Spotlight. An Extraordinary Tribute — Gerald Fenech recommends the soundtrack album of 'Maestro', the new film about Leonard Bernstein. '... brilliant sound and attractive presentation.'

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

Spotlight. A Real Treat — Geoff Pearce listens to music by Herman D Koppel. '... full of interest, and it showcases the considerable talents of the Koppel family and associated artists.'

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. A Wake-up Call — Ron Bierman listens to orchestral music by Carlos Simon and by Wagner arranged by Lorin Maazel

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

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

Spotlight. Uncanny Precision — Gerald Fenech recommends Frieder Bernius' recording of 'L'Olimpiade' by Hasse. 'Frieder Bernius has a convincing way with Hasse.'

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

Spotlight. The Authentic Chopin Sound — Gerald Fenech reviews Margarita Höhenrieder's recording of the Chopin piano concertos. 'This issue is a truly important addition to the composer's discography ...'

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

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

Steiner — A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

Spotlight. Largely Traditional — Keith Bramich listens to Christmas music recorded in 1975 in Atlanta, Georgia. '... an intriguing glimpse of the work of Robert Shaw and his Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus from nearly fifty years ago.'

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

Ensemble. Dramatic, Frightening and Profound — Keith Bramich experiences multimedia compositions by Yannis Kyriakides

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

Classical music news. December 2023 Newsletter — Our December 2023 PDF newsletter, 'Time and Time Again', has just been published

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

Spotlight. Overwhelmingly Thrilling — Gerald Fenech is impressed by Ivan Repušić's recording of Verdi's 'I lombardi alla prima crociata'. 'Another triumph in Repušić's ongoing cycle of early Verdi in excellent sound and annotations.'

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

Spotlight. Colourful and Exciting — Geoff Pearce listens to early orchestral music by Sergei Rachmaninov conducted by Leonard Slatkin. '... this reissue is most welcome ...'

Spotlight. Incandescent Music-making — Gerald Fenech urges you not to miss Haitink's recordings of Bruckner's Te Deum and Eighth Symphony. 'Awesome in every way.'

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

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

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

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

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

Ensemble. Innocence Leading to Empathy — Ron Bierman experiences the mariachi opera 'The Miracle of Remembering'

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

Allan Rae: 5 Concerti — Richard Meszto introduces five works, referencing, in particular, the vast landscapes of Canada

Spotlight. Warmth and Sonoric Exuberance — Gerald Fenech heartily recommends Tugan Sokhiev conducting brass arrangements of well-known overtures. '... exhilarating, spectacular, absorbing.'

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

Spotlight. Colourful Orchestration and Melodic Nature — Geoff Pearce listens to three works by Richard Strauss. '... if you are fond of Richard Strauss's music, you will not be disappointed ...'

Classical music news. New Year's Eve from Berlin — The Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra's 2023 New Year's Eve concert will be broadcast live to around three-hundred-and-fifty cinemas across Europe

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

Spotlight. Overwhelmingly Compelling — Gerald Fenech is inspired by Eberhard Klotz's organ transcription of Bruckner's Symphony No 8. '... with every new release Albrecht's playing becomes more inspired and imaginatively alive.'

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

Spotlight. Polish and Sensitivity — Stephen Francis Vasta listens to music for piano and orchestra by Anton Rubinstein. 'The performance is excellent ...'

Maybrick — A classical music word-puzzle by Allan Rae

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 ...'

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

Learning How to Play Again with 'The Nutcracker' — Jeffrey Neil shares some thoughts about Tchaikovsky's ballet, following a visit to Oakland Ballet's production in California, USA

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

Spotlight. A Very Pleasant Discovery — Geoff Pearce recommends music by František Tůma. '... one wonders why Tůma is not more widely known.'

Classical music news - Bruckner Year 2024 — Celebrating Anton Bruckner's two-hundredth birthday

 

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