A rare opportunity to hear some of the best North American musicians performing gems of classical music. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
I have to admit that I’ve got a soft spot for the bassoon. It’s not the most sensual of instruments, but it’s more than capable of stirring the listener’s emotions, or astonishing with flights of virtuosity. Although the cover of the disc oddly doesn’t mention her name at all, this is essentially a chamber recital from bassoonist Donna Agrell. Focusing on works written for 19th-century bassoonist Frans Preumayr, this recording includes chamber music from Swedish composers who don’t pop up all that often – Éduoard Du Puy, and Franz Berwald. Last year I reviewed a live performance in which the players expressed concerns about the quality of Berwald’s music. Although it’s far from flabbergasting anyone, I would argue that one doesn’t need to hear masterworks all the time. No one cooks with Wagyu beef every day – sometimes all the heart desires is a trip to the local Bunnings’ sausage sizzle. Berwald’s music isn’t going to replace Haydn or Mozart, but it’s fun while it lasts. The two Berwald pieces on this disc (the Septet in B Flat and the Quartet in E Flat) are not without charm, but it’s in the Quintet in A Minor by Du Puy…
The Georgian-born pianist talks about growing up in the Soviet Union, the Russian school and meeting Shostakovich.
★★★★½ New Yorkers help launch Sydney’s newest music venue. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
The Australian soprano joins Daniil Trifonov, Hélène Grimaud and Dame Emma Kirkby in Melbourne Recital Centre’s 2017 series. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
Australia’s classical music and arts magazine has bold plans to improve national coverage. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
A hybrid of poetry, lecture and literary fancy makes for a highly melodramatic evening
The outspoken conductor, pianist and activist unveils his online plans. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
In a diverse 2017 season, cinema and Americana rub shoulders with classical masters and contemporary voices. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
Helen Gifford OAM heads the diverse list of artists and their notable works rewarded in Melbourne. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
Carl Vine announces a “fantastic year of debuts” for the 2017 season along with the return of some audience favourites. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
Choral and movie blockbusters, plus top soloists headline the 2017 season, while Sir Andrew Davis conducts Thaïs. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
David Robertson’s eclectic programme of new and old mixes Trifonov and Ibragimova with Dutoit and Ashkenazy. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in
