When a relatively new nonprofit board creates an Executive Director position, it’s a big day, and a sign they’re ready for some serious growth. That seems to be the case for one of our most exciting choral organizations, and we wait for more news of programs and changes with great anticipation. No doubt there’s more … Read more
The world rarely arrives in sonata form… we could all use a good recap. New releases With Christmas listening and gift-giving so close at hand, this is the perfect time to pick up some new manifestations of holiday favorites. Don’t depend on radio and Spotify to fill your ears this season. Local entities have put … Read more
The WQXR blog (one of my favorites) dipped into a question yesterday about the legend of Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring debut. If you’ve ever taken a class about 20th century music, you’ve probably heard the tale: boos screamed, cat-calls shouted, musicians, dancers and concertgoers afraid for their safety… My favorite bit was something about one audience … Read more
Vocal focus from CCMN Southern CA Vocal Events Lauri D. Goldenhersh’s Weekly Highlights Choral music is back, with two very different programs from newish and very vigorous local ensembles, both kicking off their new seasons on Sunday: Diving fully into the sacred, LA CHORAL LAB runs the gamut from old to new, with hymns, spirituals and … Read more
Vocal focus from CCMN* Southern CA Vocal Events Lauri D. Goldenhersh’s Weekly Highlights Some music events are unusual not because they’re weird or innovative, but because they’re carefully curated and full of the presenter’s love of the art form. Stretch your vocab a bit with one of out-of-the-ordinary events: On Saturday 10/3, the late-afternoon ‘Liederabend’ … Read more
by Norge Yip, Lister reviewer On Sunday, March 22, L.A. Choral Lab and their Conductor and Artistic Director, Michael Alfera, unveiled Missa urbis angelorum (Mass of the City of Angels) at Zipper Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles. The modern hall, nestled in the Colburn School, was abuzz with patrons purchasing and picking up tickets … Read more
Vocal focus from CCMN* SOUTHERN CA VOCAL EVENTS Lauri D. Goldenhersh’s Weekly Highlights “Jefe, what is a plethora?”* The answer is simple: Check the calendar. There’s so much going on this week that it boggles the mind. But here’s a rough sketch: Operas abound, with GAVIN BRYARS’ Marilyn Forever bringing Ms. Monroe to life at … Read more
When director Michael Alfera took the stage on Friday night, clad in skinny jeans, buttoned-up shirt, bow tie and close-cut jacket, it was clear that both performers and audience were already pumped. This organization has come together quickly, and had already impressed a lot of people before they’d even opened their mouths at this weekend’s … Read more
New ensemble aims to refresh choral experience Another new group. If you just sighed involuntarily, you’re not alone. As artists and organizations look for ways to revitalize the field of classical music, there’s been a slough of the same old thing, and a handful of treasured groups that challenge and delight. L.A. Choral Lab … Read more
Vocal focus from CCMN* SOUTHERN CA VOCAL EVENTS Lauri D. Goldenhersh’s Weekly Highlights And they’re off! BACH COLLEGIUM SAN DIEGO launches their season with ‘Leipzig Legacy’, a program of… well, Bach, of course, but also Knüpfer, Schelle and Kuhnau, illustrating the essential role of cantor at the storied city’s St. Thomas Church. Tickets start … Read more
