Music

Music Commentary: New England Philharmonic at 40

March 2, 2017
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Whatever challenges there may be, the enthusiasm of the New England Philharmonic’s leadership is infectious.

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Concert Review: Shostakovich and Gubaidulina at Symphony Hall

March 1, 2017
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This was a stirring, thought-provoking, and, ultimately, moving reading of Shostakovich’s Seventh Symphony.

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Jazz CD Review: “Meditations on Freedom” — Creative Politics

February 21, 2017
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On this album, saxophonist Noah Preminger serves up his visceral reaction to the post-election state of affairs.

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Music Interview/Review: Former Genesis Guitarist Steve Hackett Crosses Musical Borders

February 20, 2017
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“My ancestors fled pogroms in Poland and today we have a crisis to rival what went on in the 1940s.”

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Concert Review: Boston Modern Orchestra Project’s “Glass Works”

February 20, 2017
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It was a treat to experience Philip Glass’s orchestral music live and in-person.

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CD/DVD Review: “Celebrate Ornette” — An Exuberant Homage to a Jazz Genius

February 17, 2017
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This collection demonstrates that the music of Ornette Coleman is in tune with something elemental and essential in the human spirit.

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Music Interview: Session Americana and That Little Round Table

February 17, 2017
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Session Americana has matured from a local, informal collective to a polished touring band.

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Book Review: “In the Midnight Hour” — The Tempestuous Life of Wilson Pickett

February 17, 2017
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Tony Fletcher’s research is impeccable, his sources are unimpeachable, and his style is thoroughly engaging.

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Concert Review: Boston Symphony Orchestra plays Ravel, Benjamin, and Berlioz

February 13, 2017
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Front and center was Andris Nelsons, who, interpretively, seemed more than happy to try on a bunch of different hats.

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Jazz Book Review: “Blue Rhythm Fantasy” — Illuminating the Swing Era

February 8, 2017
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This is more interesting than a sweeping survey, it is a portrait of an African-American musician whose career peaked in the Swing Era.

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