classical music reviews, news & interviews
Bernard Hughes |

Bayard Rustin is a fascinating but little-known figure in US history: a civil rights organiser who worked behind the scenes on both the Montgomery bus boycott and Martin Luther King’s 1963 March on Washington, as well as campaigning for pacifism (he was on the British anti-nuclear Aldermaston March in 1958) and gay rights. He was also an accomplished singer and lutenist, and advocate for Elizabethan song repertoire.

David Nice |

Perfectly at one in matching tone and response, this phenomenal duo who are both formidable solo personalities in their own right also took us through a range of colours and approaches in a cornucopia of masterpieces for both four hands at one piano and two instruments placed side by side, from Bach to Lutoslawski, Debussy to Tailleferre.

David Nice
Two concerts packed with thorny repertoire playing to large and enthusiastic audiences of all ages: the London Philharmonic Orchestra is cresting a…
Rachel Halliburton
On a dank January evening in St Albans, there seemed little sign of life or excitement on the streets. To reach my destination – St Peter’s Church –…
Bernard Hughes
There is nothing to compare with the visceral experience of hearing a massed choir – in this case the 230-strong combined forces of the Crouch End…

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graham.rickson
Late music from a 20th century giant, a neglected symphony and an epic work for solo guitar
Rachel Halliburton
Sonatas by Brahms and Prokofiev were revealed in all their intricacy
David Nice
Rudolf Barshai's performing version undermines fine conducting and playing
Robert Beale
From misery to fun to grim discovery in a vivid opera-in-concert performance
Robert Beale
Award-winning pianist makes his mark with mystery and magic
David Nice
Welcome return of one of the world's greatest conductors with a fascinating programme
David Nice
A live-wire violinist in top form, and a programme contrasting mystery with good humour
Robert Beale
Clear and crystalline pianism in contrast with Ives and Adams
Rachel Halliburton
A ravishingly beautiful depiction of the composer's life in tableaux vivants
David Nice
The most creative of guitarists invests in everything, but it didn't all work for the audience
Robert Beale
A test of nerve and stamina in centenary celebration of a multi-faceted masterpiece
David Nice
A versatile team led by the superb mezzo delivers in the perfect setting
Mark Kidel
Contemporary classical with a thrilling edge
Bernard Hughes
This classy duo delight with a re-imagining of Schubert’s Winterreise
graham.rickson
A young soprano's debut disc, Portuguese piano music and an extravagant romantic symphony
Katie Bray
'How do you take your Weill? Sarcastic, sultry, or with a sardonic smile?'
David Nice
A young soprano truly blossoms and the conductor cuts a dash
David Nice
Festival threads and outstanding one-offs in abundance
graham.rickson
Our pick of the year's best classical releases
Boyd Tonkin
Bach's Christmas marvel shines like new
Mark Kidel
Music illuminates the heart at the darkest time of the year
Boyd Tonkin
No cosy comfort in this major modern act of faith
graham.rickson
A neglected 20th century composer celebrated, plus three box sets of weighty Russian repertoire
Sebastian Scotney
New biennial event earns its place in the calendar

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