Tunes turn decidedly moody this time of year, whether it’s spookiness for Halloween, requiems for All Saints’ Day, honoring the departed on Dia de los Muertos, or the mental shift that comes with shorter days when the time changes. (Don’t worry — that’s next week, but it’s already getting darker!) There are so many good things … Read more
It’s not an address, but it is an intersection. It’s the balls-out season opener from LA Chamber Orchestra, in which artistic director Jaime MartÃn pairs Beethoven’s beloved Symphony No. 9 (“Choral”), with the West Coast premiere of Both, a newly commissioned orchestral work by enigmatic composer Shelley Washington. It is Washington’s own life’s duality that … Read more
As the world suddenly fills up with pumpkin spice everything, apple pies, and people who are already decorating for Halloween, it may seem like the only thing autumnal about SoCal right now is the flavors and air fresheners we choose. But looking at the events calendar, we see another story: we’re already seeing grand opera, … Read more
There isn’t much on the calendar yet, but we all know that the big wave of fall events is coming. Staring into the vastness that is a brand-new season can be invigorating, mystifying… and overwhelming. This year marks the first full season post-COVID, and while presenters are dipping their toes into the water with hope … Read more
This is a big holiday weekend, celebrating one of our nation’s biggest holidays. Independence Day is taking a beating this year, however, as our country is wrapped in controversy and conflict. So, I’m approaching it as a sort of “Thankspendence”. Here are a few good things to be grateful for, regardless of your other views: Music and … Read more
Even as the season is winding down, the Listerhood is putting out intriguing, thought-provoking events! This week, we’re featuring one performance written, produced and starring a whole horde of Listers; a workshop hosted by a support org with a specific mission; and a benefit that spotlights music of the Near East. Tonight or tomorrow, catch … Read more
It’s a big week of season finales, with organizations all over the Southland bringing out fun and exciting programs that will welcome summer with gusto. Don’t miss the much-anticipated reboot of one of Mozart’s best operas, as Salastina brings Cosi into a more enlightened time. Be sure to check out your local community choir, and enjoy the wealth of choral music … Read more
In our turbulent political climate, it seems everything lives in conflict — even holidays. But Memorial Day should be different, as it honors those who have given so much. For those of us who come from military families, it is a poignant moment of pride (sending love to my cousin Matt!), great big hugs, and … Read more
I love buying things in bulk. Sifting through various types of beans or dried fruit or toys or candy or jewelry or whatever, it’s satisfying, somehow, to create a combination of just about anything that is unique to a mood, a particular need, or the tastes of the recipient. Creating a work of art with … Read more
We’re spotlighting the Hear Now Music Festival in this week’s event newsletter, and always encourage our readers to support new classical music whenever the opportunity arises. Whether it’s buying a ticket, showing up, volunteering, making a simple donation, or contributing to a commission, these activities help classical evolve into its next, very dynamic phase, and what … Read more
