Niels Swinkels

Niels Swinkels is a freelance journalist, musicologist, sound engineer, and radio producer. Born and raised in the Netherlands, he studied English and Musicology at the University of Nijmegen. Before moving to San Francisco, he was the Arts Editor, and Senior Classical Music & Opera critic for Brabants Dagblad, a Dutch daily newspaper. In addition to writing for the Classical Voice and others, he is producer for KALW’s Open Air, a weekly radio magazine for the Bay Area performing arts. He is also a wine guy at Trader Joe’s Nob Hill. Read more about Niels at his website.

Articles By This Author

Niels Swinkels - January 31, 2017

The great violinist drained every ounce of emotion from Britten’s Violin Concerto in a triumphant appearance with the Marin Symphony.

Niels Swinkels - January 24, 2017

The close connection between violinist and conductor made for an electrifying concerto performance.

Niels Swinkels - November 15, 2016

The early music group delves into love, Italian style.

Niels Swinkels - September 27, 2016

Tenor Michael Fabiano shone in the all-important opera highlights, but the full program went much deeper into the sweep of Italian music.

Niels Swinkels - September 20, 2016

The conductor provides a revelatory reading of an iconic masterwork, devoid of the usual drama.

Niels Swinkels - July 19, 2016

Stripped down to essentials, this was a visceral, exciting production of Monteverdi's masterpiece, The Coronation of Poppea.

Niels Swinkels - May 17, 2016

Dr. Magen Solomon has guided the venerable community choir to new levels of artistry.

Niels Swinkels - April 26, 2016

Despite the large forces arrayed for the Easter and Ascension Oratorios, Jeffrey Thomas and his musicians achieve chamber music-like clarity and unforced communication.

Niels Swinkels - April 13, 2016

The orchestra’s intimate connection with the works of Mahler continues to inspire.

Niels Swinkels - April 5, 2016

SF Symphony featured the less-performed, edgy works in Copland's output, with Inon Barnatan at the keyboards for the Piano Concerto.