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 25, 2014

Three world premieres are featured in Volti's concert "Want Me: Songs of Longing and Desire" at the visually arresting St. Gregory of Nyssa's Church.

Niels Swinkels - November 15, 2014

The San Francisco Wind Ensemble showed maturity beyond its years in a performance of Ferrer Ferrán's, Symphony No. 4, “El Coloso.” Read the review.

Niels Swinkels - November 15, 2014

There was so much energy and uplift to the Philharmonia Baroqueʼs concert with countertenor Andreas Scholl, it felt like a party.

Niels Swinkels - November 11, 2014

Mezzo-soprano Karine Deshayes makes a strong impression in S.F. Operaʼs revival of Rossiniʼs La Cenerentola.

Niels Swinkels - October 21, 2014

With the appointment of Dr. Magen Solomon as its new Artistic Director last June, the San Francisco Bach Choir has entered a new era.

Niels Swinkels - October 15, 2014

The London Philharmonic comes to town for two concerts as part of the San Francisco Symphony’s Great Performers Series, with Vladimir Jurowski conducting.

Niels Swinkels - October 10, 2014

Cellist Steven Isserlis adds luster to Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra’s first concert of its 34th season, at SFJAZZ.

Niels Swinkels - September 30, 2014

If Sunday’s season opener is any indication of the care and dedication with which each Marin Symphony program will be presented, fans of the orchestra have a lot to look forward to.

Niels Swinkels - September 8, 2014

Playing scores by beloved French and Russian composers, the S.F. Symphony launches its new season, its 20th with the still-sprightly Michael Tilson Thomas.

Niels Swinkels - August 19, 2014

Considerable talent and a magnetic stage presence are but two of the gifts of an ad hoc musical duo, Nathan Chan and Audrey Vardanega.