Artist Spotlight

These lively Q&A's aim to shed light on the personalities behind the music. Get to know your favorite artists...or discover someone new!

Artist Spotlight
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May 22, 2012
Violinist Hilary Hahn: Taking It All In
BY Marianne Lipanovich

On the eve of her S.F. Symphony performances, violinist Hilary Hahn expands on her hectic life concertizing, building projects, webcasting, and soliciting new works from virtual unknowns.

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Artist Spotlight
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May 17, 2012
David Robertson: Building a Better Place With Music
BY Niels Swinkels

Conductor David Robertson, renowned for his work presenting new music, describes his style of building programs that welcome a variety of listeners.

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Artist Spotlight
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May 15, 2012
The Timeless Traveled Treasures of Jordi Savall
BY Jeff Kaliss

While missing his late wife and performing and recording partner, Jordi Savall continues to cross centuries, and cultural and geographic boundaries in celebration of early music. He’ll appear at Berkeley’s Festival & Exhibition.

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Artist Spotlight
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May 4, 2012
Concertmaster Alexander Barantschik Celebrates With Concertos
BY Jeff Kaliss

Alexander Barantschik talks about how making music with his colleagues on his 1742 Guarnerius is the sweetest way to celebrate his 10th anniversary with the S.F. Symphony.

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Artist Spotlight
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May 2, 2012
Ellen Taaffe Zwilich: Composed Inspiration
BY Niels Swinkels

The composer Ellen Taaffe Zwilich has to feel crazy in love with a proposed work, otherwise she doesn’t do it.

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Artist Spotlight
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April 24, 2012
Susanna Mälkki: Adventures in Debuts
BY Marianne Lipanovich

Probing the heart of contemporary music is key to the conducting career of Susanna Mälkki, another bright star from Finland.

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Artist Spotlight
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April 20, 2012
The Royal Romeros: Beautiful Guitars, Forever
BY Jeff Kaliss

The Romeros keep the legend of their classical guitar quartet alive through several generations.

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Artist Spotlight
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April 17, 2012
Yamandu Costa: Sound of Brazilian Strings
BY Jeff Kaliss

Guitarist Yamandu Costa tours with his distinctive seven-string instrument, lending new flavors to to the popular music of Brazil.

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Artist Spotlight
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April 12, 2012
Olga Kern: Pleased Champion, Proud Mother
BY Marianne Lipanovich

Russian pianist Olga Kern loves her thriving career, painting scenes from nature, and her sophisticated young son.

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Artist Spotlight
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April 10, 2012
Matthias Goerne: The Voice Mirrors the Soul
BY Jason Victor Serinus

The German baritone Matthias Goerne tells why he is drawn to songs with contemporary relevance, allowing him to plumb his emotional depths.

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