Two new recordings and one much-welcome re-release contain first-rate performances of Haydn’s 1798 “Lord Nelson” Mass, Dello Joio’s opera about Joan of Arc, and Virgil Thomson’s astonishing musical portraits of Alice B. Toklas, Picasso, and others.
Gil-Rose
Classical CD Reviews: Delibes Ballet Suites, John Williams in Vienna, and John Harbison Concertos
Terrific performances, blazing with color, character, and wonderful technique from Neeme Järvi and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra; John Williams and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra offer considerable pleasure with some misteps; another triumphant release from Gil Rose and the BMOP.
Opera CD Review: Gunther Schuller’s Splendid 1970 Children’s Opera Gets Its World-Premiere Recording
A Grimm, but not grim, opera about a Fisherman, his Wife, their Cat, and a wish-granting Flounder.
Concert Review: Odyssey Opera’s “The Chronicle of Nine”
Arnold Rosner’s writing in each act is strongly contrapuntal, metrically unpredictable, and idiomatically scored. The music is marked by constantly shifting colors, a strong sense of rhythm, and a healthy dose of lyricism.
Concert Review: Boston Modern Orchestra Project plays John Corigliano
John Corigliano’s take on goodbyes is, if not exactly bitter, then full of sorrow: few happy memories to be had here.
Classical Concert Review: BMOP celebrates Joan Tower
Above all, Joan Tower’s music doesn’t waste your time.
Classical Concert Review: Odyssey Opera’s “The Maid of Orléans”
Saturday’s performance ranked among Odyssey Opera’s finest and most artistically satisfying undertakings.
Concert Review: Boston Modern Orchestra Project’s “Glass Works”
It was a treat to experience Philip Glass’s orchestral music live and in-person.
Classical CD Reviews: Boston Modern Orchestra Project plays Steven Stucky and Johannes Moser plays Elgar
BMOP releases a fitting, moving tribute to a giant of contemporary music; Johannes Moser turns in a sweeping performance of Elgar’s Cello Concerto.
Opera Preview: “The Picture of Dorian Gray” — The Opera
“I have always been a fan of horror movies, and I’m sure that was part of the attraction to me.”