Review

Book Reviews: Art Museums — Anything But Neutral

December 14, 2022
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It’s tempting to frame these books as opposing sides in an argument, Old School Establishment vs. Progressive Left. They are more like parallel universes; their opinions and even their terms rarely converge.

Opera Album Review: Meyerbeer’s Comic Opera about Peter the Great, A Welcome Return

December 13, 2022
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This re-release of a superb recording of a major Meyerbeer opera reminds us what treasures are available to opera companies (and college opera programs) willing to step beyond the well-trodden path.

Concert Review: Pianist Seong-Jin Cho — Fire and Precision

December 12, 2022
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The South Korean pianist possesses technique to burn. His tone is pearly and deep, capable of both haunting distance and grandeur.

Poetry Review: Henry Walters’s “The Nature Thief” — Memorable Verbal Acrobatics

December 12, 2022
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The poems in this remarkable collection lead us, as all good literature should do, after all the appearances and misdirections, feints and antic dispositions, to nothing but ourselves.

Jazz Album Review: Satoko Fujii’s “Hyaku: One Hundred Dreams” — Slightly Restrained Mayhem

December 11, 2022
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Pianist/composer Satoko Fujii’s determination to create is astonishing and wide-ranging — her 100 albums as leader prove it.

Classical Concert Review: Celebrity Series Presents Junction Trio — Balancing Flair and Cohesion

December 11, 2022
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This young, superstar trio is capable of being as cool as it is fiery, and the performers’ strengths bring out the best in each other.

Theater Reviews: On Broadway, “Topdog” Sizzles While “Salesman” Slogs

December 9, 2022
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In Broadway revivals, Topdog/Underdog is absolutely riveting, while Death of a Salesman feels forced and unconvincing.

Film Review: “Empire of Light” – A Lovely Celebration of Cinema and Those Who Love It

December 9, 2022
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Sam Mendes writes and directs an poignant ode to the escape we find in going to the movies.

Book Review: “Jimi” — Hendrix’s Life in a Beautifully Designed Art Book

December 8, 2022
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Jimi’s sister and a Newton-based Hendrix scholar dig into the archives and come up with a coffee table book that celebrates the rock icon.

Classical Concert Review: Violinist Christian Tetzlaff — “Playing for Life and Death”

December 7, 2022
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Christian Tetzlaff’s recital was a breathtaking experience, full of dancelike grace, intelligence, and charm.

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