Michael Zwiebach

The small company proved once again that it can cast a difficult opera well.

The group offered a light but musically satisfying concert, backed by impressive musicianship and a little nerding out.

The Irvine-based orchestra celebrates the United States’ 250th anniversary with a season planned by new music director, Alexander Shelley.

The program, created in collaboration with Ruckus, features works from early in the American Republic to comment on issues of today.

The rising violinist was the perfect steward for an Enlightenment-themed concert, part of a weeklong SFCM residency.

Before 2026 applications are due, learn how the project has positively impacted composers Jens Ibsen, Kyle Rivera, and Trevor Weston.

At the annual ceremony, longtime SFCV contributor Janos Gereben won a career achievement award. This journal also placed in three award categories.

For “In Winter’s Glow” the ensembles programmed unusual repertory and blended their sound effectively.

Caroline Shaw’s The Holdfast shines in a concert that blends Baroque tradition with striking new choral works.

Anton Reicha’s Te Deum was definitely worth hearing, as Chora Nova maintained its tradition of singing unusual repertory.