Artist Spotlights

The founder (and funder) of the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival talks about the banjo, his financial career, and musicians he loves to pluck strings alongside.

The renowned violinist is opening a new chapter, becoming music director of an esteemed British ensemble while also continuing his solo career.

A New Yorker cartoonist draws musicians and celebrities, when he’s not noodling around on the ivories.

The acclaimed British composer reflects on his contentment with living part-time in California and being inspired to compose differently here: more boldly, with greater clarity.

The Mark Morris Dance Group readies its acclaimed version of Dido and Aeneas for three Berkeley performances, with the famed choreographer himself wielding the baton.

The indefatigable jazz cat, with deep roots in the Beat Era, gears up for performances in San Jose.

A leading light of Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra for three decades, Elizabeth Blumenstock reflects on her musical beginnings and her downtime pursuits.

The Swedish soprano power walks to her San Francisco debut as the vengeful Chinese princess.

San Francisco Symphony’s longtime and beloved music director reflects on his first conducting gig, his mentors, his orchestra’s various personalities, and today’s challenges for arts organizations.

A noted opera director reflects on collaborating with San Francisco Opera on a new work based on the 9/11 attacks.