The oldest known opera by a Black American composer, Edmond Dédé’s 1887 ‘Morgiane,’ had its world premiere last spring and now has its debut recording. Rich string writing, a variety of obbligato parts, and snappy dance rhythms point to a composer with an ear for traditions both formal (French grand opera) and folk (his New Orleans upbringing).
Edmond Dédé’s Morgiane: A Hit Opera, 138 Years Late Read More »
The Yudah School of Music, just a year old, offers free tuition for all its students, mostly Black and Latino elementary- and middle-schoolers. Late last year, Yudah founder Rasháwn King brought together students and professionals for a ‘Messiah’ with a historically informed approach. Along the way, he’s challenging ‘what it’s supposed to be, who’s supposed to play it.’
Making a Difference in Delaware Read More »
Amanda Forsythe is the star of this Telemann recording with the Boston Early Music Festival Orchestra. In a favorite cantata and showy opera arias, the soprano and ensemble deliver fiery intensity and emotional depth. And it’s a 2026 Grammy winner for Best Classical Solo Album.
Dazzling Telemann from Amanda Forsythe & BEMF Read More »
Historical performance often reveals fresh sounds in big symphonic music. The Philharmonie Austin’s Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony and ‘Romeo & Juliet’ showcases a thrilling Texas ensemble, while the European group Les Siècles, in Mahler’s ‘The Song of the Earth,’ goes back to the composer’s soundworld.
Tchaikovsky and Mahler, Refreshed on Period Instruments Read More »
With more shows on its calendar and looking for new (and possibly younger) dancers, the New York Baroque Dance Co. put out an audition call. Experience in Baroque style was a plus, but not a requirement. At the same time, the 50-year-old company started weekly technique classes to keep their dancers in peak form. These two components are coming together as Baroque dance continues to expand.
Training Specialists for Historical Dance Read More »
