In this extraordinary recording, harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani is given a chance to perfectly convey the power of his emotions.
Classical Music
Arts Commentary: Some Thoughts on the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra’s 2019 Brazilian Tour
Suffice it to say, the tour was an extraordinary experience, musically and culturally, and, for me, a conspicuously potent introduction to a new continent.
Classical CD Review: Bravo Leoš Janáček — A Marvelous Serving of his Vocal Music
This album led me to choose, for a summer project, to listen to all of the music of Janáček — and it has been a complete delight.
Opera Album Review: Now Hear What Berlioz and Wagner Admired — Gaspare Spontini’s “Olimpie” in a Stupendous New Recording
This world-premiere recording of the 1826 Paris version of Gaspare Spontini’s Olimpie makes a powerful case for a composer much admired in his own day.
Classical Music Review: The Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in Brazil, Part One
The BPYO’s repertoire in Brazil is drawn from last year’s programs and is built around Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto no. 2.
Classical Music Review: At BEMF, Benjamin Bagby and Sequentia Seduce with Charms and Riddles
Thanks to BEMF for once again presenting Benjamin Bagby, who seems incapable of serving up anything but a wonderfully memorable experience.
Music Preview: Cellist Helen Gillet — Blending Chaos and Creativity
Helen Gillet’s music welcomes loops of all sorts and plays with the happy accidents that create new melodies and rhythms that reach beyond borders.
Opera Review: Boston Early Music Opera’s “Orlando” — Divine Madness
This entertaining opera is a real soap opera, given that it chronicles the fallout of the passionate protagonist’s unrequited love.
Classical CD Review: “Letters From Gettysburg” — A Powerful Plea for Compassion
Letters from Gettysburg is an extraordinarily haunting five-movement work that elevates the experience of one man into a memorial to all victims of war.
Concert Review: Juventas New Music’s “Pride: Hand in Hand”
The six pieces hailed from various corners of the country and examined a wide range of expressive and social viewpoints.