How youth orchestras delivered the three most powerful performances of 2024

Among the more than a hundred symphony concerts I experienced this year, either in person or online, three stood out the most: Shostakovich’s Fifth, Schubert’s Ninth, and Sibelius’ Second Symphony. These aren’t just traditional pieces; for the young musicians who performed them, many under 25 years old, and some as young as 10, they were fresh challenges to be mastered.

Best of 2024: Eleven bright spots in classical music during a dark, complicated year

2020, a year filled with discord, distraction, conflict, and intolerance, has seen classical music standing at the forefront. Simultaneously, an incident involving a pro-Palestinian student encampment at UCLA, which was violently attacked in April, occurred on the same day as the final day of the Hear Now festival of Los Angeles new music. This event culminated with the performance of George Lewis’ “Lonnie and Lonie,” a double concerto that bridged the musical gap between two individuals holding contrasting worldviews.

At Women’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp, female legends strike a chord with talented up-and-comers

In the world of music, particularly rock, men continue to hold a significant majority. If you’re a female musician aspiring to perform alongside iconic women rockers like Lita Ford or Nancy Wilson, here’s an opportunity that could make your dreams come true. From December 5th to 8th in Hollywood, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp is hosting its third Women’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp. This special event features guitarists such as Nancy from Heart, Lita from the Runaways, and Sheila E., among others.