Reviews

Terrifically satisfying performances highlight a disc that captures 23 art songs by Samuel Barber.

Holding nothing back in cast strength and performance quality, West Edge Opera mounts an admirable production of Richard Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos.

The ravishing Beijing-born classical guitarist plays the Spanish classics, tosses off some Bach and Chopin, and swings with works by Brazilian composers.

The Alaskan mezzo, backed by Philharmonia Baroque, launches brilliant vocal fireworks that burst into full bloom.

With Xerxes the S.F. Opera could not have assembled a finer cast, nor chosen a more consistently delightful production for one of Handel’s masterpieces.

A smartly laid out program of violin works, old and new, dexterously conveyed emotion while it purveyed lofty musical ideas.

The Berkeley Symphony, in its third season under Joana Carneiro, continues to celebrate young talent in a concert that was a victory for composer, performers, and audience.

Alan Gilbert led the S.F. Symphony in a brief concert that was long on good graces, establishing close and effortless contact with the orchestra, and polishing off the two similar classics with panache.

A recital by Baritone Simon Keenlyside offers a handsome voice and an audience that leaves smiling at the lovable character with a rare gift for song.

You probably haven't heard the music on these two CDs, but the high quality of the compositions and the playing will make you sit up and pay attention.