The opening segment of Eric Schulz’s brilliant and deeply moving documentary about conductor Carlos Kleiber.
Video of the Day — Anna Shkolnikova: Perpetuum Mobile
A recent, retro-Soviet-style string piece reminiscent of Shostakovich and Khachaturian (and Bernard Herrmann?) — enjoy!
Holiday Cheer
Something a little different for this year (that also kinda hints at my age), courtesy of Walt Kelly and Lambert, Hendricks & Ross. Hat tip: “DerDingle” on YouTube.
Before there was Doonesbury or Bloom County, there was Walt Kelly’s Pogo. Their mutated lyrics to “Deck Us All with Boston Charlie” (and a little analysis and speculation in true Walt Kelly fashion) can be found here.
Happy holidays!
Anthony Amato, 1920-2011
While I was taking a break from typing up my review of Tuesday’s superb Messiah at Avery Fisher Hall, I learned that Anthony Amato — founder of the little tiny New York City opera company that could, the Amato Opera — died yesterday at the age of 91.
UPDATE: WQXR has published an obituary.
UPDATE 2: Here’s the NY Times “The Local” obituary.
Best Classical Releases of the Year 2011 — With Podcast
You knew I’d weigh in.
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The full list of my picks for best classical CDs and downloads of 2011 is below the break.
Continue reading Best Classical Releases of the Year 2011 — With Podcast
Busy Busy Busy
Apologies for the dearth of posting. Here’s one thing I’ve been working on recently; if you like vintage electronica, virtuoso drumming, or Joan LaBarbara, you are especially urged to click on the linky goodness. And if you like Piazzolla or tangos in general, check this out.
Turkey Overdose Recovery Music: Speakers Matter
About a month ago, a pair of enormous shipping crates arrived at the New York apartment. Mrs. Synaphaï nearly freaked out.
Continue reading Turkey Overdose Recovery Music: Speakers Matter
In Creative MODX
Yes, I’ve been a bit preoccupied since Labor Day. Here’s what’s up:
Top of the Pile: Hot New and Recent Release Podcast
Vintage Steinberg, adventurous Bach, Mahler from the SWF archive, and serious fun from tuba virtuoso Carol Jantsch. Details below the fold…
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Continue reading Top of the Pile: Hot New and Recent Release Podcast
Haitink / New York Philharmonic @ Avery Fisher , Week 2
My review is up at Classical Source. Yes, Bruckner is exciting when it’s done right.