Let’s see . . . how best to put this . . . Einstein on the Beach is like ice cream. Or sex. Or Yosemite. Or that famously stinky flower that blooms at The Huntington. You can read or hear descriptions, see pictures, even watch videos, but none of these come anywhere close to experiencing … Continue reading
With the start of the new Los Angeles Philharmonic season, it’s time once again to examine the current personnel situation at the orchestra. The first thing worth mentioning is that there isn’t much to mention, especially compared to previous seasons. Just eyeballing it, but it looks like the orchestra has the fewest empty chairs to … Continue reading
The names on the program — Gustavo Dudamel, Yo-Yo Ma — were impressive, the kind that transcend classical music into the popular consciousness. The musical offering — Cage, Bach, Tchaikovsky, Adès, Mahler, Saint-Saëns — was noteworthy, both for its eclecticism and its ability to offer a diverse showcase for the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Walt … Continue reading
Here in Los Angeles, we are still in the midst of celebrating season opening night concerts at L.A. Opera, L.A. Chamber Orchestra, L.A. Master Chorale, and L.A. Philharmonic, among other fine institutions. While my review of last night’s LA Phil gala is forthcoming, two sad stories from other cities remind us just how fortunate — … Continue reading
All is Yar 