Classical Music
Two recommended discs: James Brawn’s complete Beethoven piano sonata series continues while Simone Dinnerstein and A Far Cry execute Philip Glass’s chorale-like writing with remarkable fervency and warmth.
Kevin Leong is unquestionably an inspired choice to lead this chorus.
Rarely in my experience has Ives’s visionary score sounded so fired with purpose.
The performance’s excellent musicianship and many amusing moments were at the service of a relevant evening of commentary on the lighter side of the current news cycle.
Variations and fugues are the overriding themes of pianist/composer Michael Brown’s captivating new album. If you’re an Andris Nelsons fan, this Deutsche Grammophon album won’t disappoint, and a disc that features three pieces by composer Ferdinand Ries, who was friendly with Beethoven, is worth hearing.
David Lang’s score is hypnotic, and Emmanuel Music’s quartet of singers gave wonderful renditions.
The Birringer Duo’s disc is a terrific, engaging release, The Colin Currie Group’s performance is nothing short of a powerhouse, and pianist Liza Stepanova plays with lots of character and color.
The Boston Symphony Chamber Players gave a very satisfying performance of eclectic musical material.
Peter Oundjian and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra deliver a great album, smartly programmed and played to the hilt. Leonard Bernstein’s live Mahler was often electrifying; this performance, even with some cracked notes and hairy transitions, certainly is.
New Yorker critic Alex Ross has called the LAPO the best orchestra in the country and that appellation seems about right.
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