Music
Many musicians know Paul Hindemith (1895–1963) as a somewhat dry composer who wrote a few operas as well as sonatas for every instrument and some half dozen for viola (he played both violin and viola extremely well). But real Hindemith has a cutting lyrical gift, much of it is on display in his kinky opera…
Read MoreThings are heating up in Boston this month with some more indie pop, psychedelic rock, and electronic shows. Also, we’re starting to get some legitimate dance music from across the pond, a trend that will most likely continue. Get out and have some fun. Just remember, it’s always about the music. By David Cooper. Dum…
Read MoreMarch highlights include the American premiere of Boston Camerata’s homage to mystics of the Middle ages, innovative programming from the Chameleon Arts Ensemble, and appearances by heavyweights pianist Evgeny Kissin, paying homage to birthday boy Franz Liszt, and guitarist John Williams. By Susan Miron Wednesday Concert Series, held each Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. — 6:30 p.m.…
Read MoreAn exciting month, and that isn’t hyperbole. A couple of North American premieres: a futuristic opera from MIT’s Tod Machover and poet Robert Pinsky and a drama tweaking The New Testament from Howard Brenton. Toss in iconic director Peter Brook staging Beckett, F. Murray Abraham as Shylock, and Car Talk:The Musical and you are talking about taking out the smelling salts
Read MoreI’ve been going to BSO Open Rehearsal for some 50 years at Tanglewood and can’t remember ever having as alienating an experience as I and over one thousand other attendees had Wednesday night at Symphony Hall.
Read MoreThe Masterworks Chorale doesn’t get the critical attention or large audiences it rightly deserves. Friday’s concert may not have been as well-attended as it should have been, but those in the audience realized they were having a rare and extraordinary listening experience.
Read MoreThe venerable Cantata Singers and Ensemble obviously knows how to throw an epic party. The group is limbering up for its 50th anniversary celebration by taking on J. S. Bach’s monumental Mass in B Mass in B Minor, BWV 232.
Read MoreIt’s the 200th birthday of Franz Liszt, and there are concerts, conferences, and projects devoted to the pianist/composer going on all over the world this year. Lisztomania at New England Conservatory is one of a number of parties in the Boston area. The Boston Conservatory is also puttin’ on the Liszt. By Bill Marx In…
Read MoreThe second half of February offers warm-ups for Mardi Gras, an evening of musical tributes by the Aardvark Jazz Orchestra, and more guitarists than you can shake a pick at.
Read MoreIn 2002, Iron & Wine debuted with The Creek Drank the Cradle, a brilliant Simon & Garfunkel-meets-Bob Dylan synthesis that caused many to proclaim a folk revival. Since this success, however, I&W’s singer-songwriter Samuel Beam has steadily drifted from his organic folk roots. Kiss Each Other Clean by Iron & Wine. Warner Brothers. By Michela…
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Music Commentary: A Deepdive into The Mothers of Invention’s “Plastic People”