David Bratman

From the U.K., the Carducci String Quartet play Haydn, Mendelssohn, and Debussy in a captivating, clean, clear style.

Whether taking listeners on a pilgrimage or in a funeral march, pianist Cecile Licad plays to the heart of Liszt and Chopin.

The always-intriguing Ives Quartet plays a quirky Cowell work, an emotionally gritty Smetana, and an ethereal Haydn.

Performance, conducting, and solos impress at the San Francisco Symphony in a program that was intricate, complex, and pulled-off with elegance.

The California Symphony tests another guest conductor, Robert Moody, who makes the music flow with a sense of purpose.

On the cusp of its 30th anniversary, the Alexander String Quartet continues its residence at Mondavi with a performance of Schubert’s String Quartet in C Minor, D. 703, “Quartettsatz”; and his String Quartet in A Minor, D. 804, “Rosamunde.”

The Ives Quartet is a locally based ensemble with a tough-grained and determined style.

Symphony Silicon Valley capitalizes on its popular appeal with a fine mixed program, with one Rossini ringer.

The Mondavi Center has its usual wide-angle season planned, while the Symphony Silicon Valley is focusing on classics with high-profile soloists. Here are the most exciting concert prospects from San Jose to Sacramento.

Brilliant playing enlivens Music@Menlo’s final program, in a mix of surprising instrumental combinations, coupled with formidable playing by young performers.