A young ensemble, the USE is a technically accomplished one and, regardless of the interpretive strengths or weaknesses of each reading, the group’s sheer skill level is evenly impressive.
Classical Concert Review: A Far Cry’s “Flames to Ashes”
Thanks to a blend of compositional technique and solid musical grounding in each of the works, “Flames to Ashes” exceeded easy categorization.
Music Commentary: Top Classical Performances and Recordings of 2021
Here are a handful of concerts that stand out from the past several months, as well as my favorite albums of 2021 – apparently even a global pandemic can’t stop the surprisingly resilient classical music recording industry.
Classical Album Review: “Here With You” — Fitting Music for the End of a Bittersweet Year
Johannes Brahms’s wistful 1894 Clarinet Sonatas receive fantastic performances.
Classical Album Review: Attacca Quartet’s “Of All Joys” — Crafting a Space All its Own
Taken together, the selections on Attacca Quartet’s latest release is something of a meditation on the human condition.
Classical Album Review: Cleveland Orchestra Plays Schnittke and Prokofiev
If you’re looking for instrumental music that grapples with tumultuous events, times, and circumstances, this may well be the disc for you.
Classical Concert Review: Pianist Conrad Tao in Recital
During the pandemic months, Conrad Tao – who, in addition to being an exceptional pianist, is also an accomplished composer – has evidently been honing his skills as an improviser.
Concert/Stream Review: A Far Cry’s “Emergence” — Typically Eclectic
The Crier’s program pairs three composers one doesn’t always find together. As is likewise the norm with this group and their selections, everything somehow connects – and on multiple levels.
Classical Album Review: “Scenes from the Kalevala”
This disc highlights various, early-20th-century works inspired by the Kalevala, the Finnish creation epic. It is a fantastic demonstration of creative programming and invigorating orchestral performance.
Classical CD Review: Shostakovich & Arensky Piano Trios
A mightily played, deeply felt, and finely recorded album from Trio Con Brio.