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 - November 4, 2015

The chorus joined the early music ensemble in honoring 17th-century female composers.

Niels Swinkels - October 20, 2015

Cal Bach Society celebrated the opening of its 45th season with a fine performance of Jan Dismas Zelenka’s Missa Votiva.

Niels Swinkels - October 6, 2015

Filled with music and ideas from outside the concert hall, Ted Hearne's new work opens doors, but it was not the only fresh performance at Davies this past week.

Niels Swinkels - September 29, 2015

The performance by the Russian concert pianist was absolutely astonishing and matched by MTT and his musicians.

Niels Swinkels - August 25, 2015

The Bay Area Russian choral ensemble more than doubles in size for weekend performances of the timeless masterpiece.

Niels Swinkels - August 18, 2015

Marais’ opera get its long overdue U.S. premiere thanks to American Bach Soloists.

Niels Swinkels - August 4, 2015

With its unique setting, a former steel pipe factory, West Edge Opera stays true to its marketing tagline of "unexpected places" for "remarkable operas."

Niels Swinkels - July 29, 2015

The full genius of the composer shone in three masterworks: Arpeggione” Sonata; the “Wanderer” Fantasy; and the Octet.

Niels Swinkels - July 21, 2015

The Midsummer Mozart Festival returns for its 41st season.

Niels Swinkels - June 2, 2015

The maestro led the symphony with casually controlled theatricality and an air of mischief.