Classical Music Reviews

Every week, our professional critics attend concerts throughout the Bay Area to let you know what went well...and occasionally what didn't. Let their insights enrich your musical experiences, and feel free to share your own views!

Jazz Review
October 16, 2018
Angel City Jazz Festival Closes With a Wadada Leo Smith World Premiere
BY Richard S. Ginell

The visionary jazz artist continues to find new expression through his compositions and personal performances.

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Chamber Orchestra/Orchestra Review
October 15, 2018
Manfred Honeck Conjures an Evening of Big Sounds
BY Steven Winn

Cellist Truls Mørk tears into Prokofiev’s Sinfonia concertante with the S.F Symphony.

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Chamber Music Review
October 15, 2018
St. Lawrence Quartet Breaks Out of the Box
BY David Bratman

The ensemble’s Sunday programs for Stanford Live embraces a broad vision of chamber music.

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Chamber Music Review
October 15, 2018
Kate Stenberg and Sarah Cahill Give New Music a Good Name
BY Jessica Balik

The local power violin-piano duo explores contemporary music in a way that everyone should celebrate.

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Chamber Orchestra/Orchestra Review
October 15, 2018
Andrew Bird Takes Flight With the LA Phil
BY Jim Farber

The folksy composer and instrumentalist fronts a program honoring former composer-in-residence Steven Stucky.

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Dance Review
October 13, 2018
Alonzo King’s Lines and Kronos Quartet Find Common Ground
BY Janice Berman

Two distinguished groups forge a testament to the artistic possibilities of collaboration.

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Modern Classical Review
October 12, 2018
Subtle Degrees Explores the Big Groove in Berkeley
BY Rebecca Wishnia

A larger-than-life performance by the saxophone-drums duo takes listeners on a dramatic journey at CNMAT.

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Chamber Orchestra/Orchestra Review
October 11, 2018
LA Phil’s Green Umbrella Keeps Floating Along on Young Talent
BY Jim Farber

The orchestra commissions six new works in a variety of styles.

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Jazz Review
October 9, 2018
SFJAZZ Introduces the Latest Collective
BY Andrew Gilbert

One of the region’s most vigorous creative forces continues to evolve and thrive through personnel changes.

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Chamber Orchestra/Orchestra Review
October 9, 2018
Symphony Silicon Valley Opens the Season Right in Stride
BY David Bratman

The orchestra reveals its strengths under guest conductor JoAnn Falletta’s baton.

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