Classical Music
Terrific, fiery playing from George Li, one of the most compelling young pianists on the scene; Mariss Jansons’ recording of Shostakovich’s Tenth trudges from start to finish; irrefutable proof of Andris Nelsons’ excellence as a new-music conductor.
Simon Rattle’s Bruckner is, on the whole, lean and lively; if you’re looking for a new Mahler Four, Vladimir Jurowski’s is the one to check out; Thierry Fischer leads performances of each symphony that take Saint-Saëns’ writing seriously.
These are two practiced masters at free improvisation. I am confident that many listeners will find them as intriguing and accomplished as I do.
In the right hands, Shostakovich’s Twelfth can come off as nothing less than an intriguing, lively symphonic essay.
Gounod was no mere purveyor of gentle sentiments. This 1881 opera, superbly performed, shows plenty of drama and grit.
What if you took canonical Western works and reimagined them from an African perspective?
This is a gem of a recording, a wonderful introduction to this often overlooked Hungarian composer.
TRIPTYCH (Eyes of One on Another) serves up a cool emotional package.
Skylark continues to impress me with its distinctly beautiful sound, its dazzling control over dynamics and intonation, and its unusually compelling programming.
There can be little doubt that the urgency of the opera’s message about equality is as relevant as ever.
Design and Visual Arts: Affordable Housing, By Design