Looking back at the year in review, I’m thinking of those we will miss. From arts patrons and musicians to the Blue Wisp Jazz Club, here are some notables of Cincinnati’s arts scene who left us in 2014:Read More »
Tag: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
Breaking news: Music Hall wins $25 million tax credit
In a press conference today at Music Hall, the Ohio Development Services Agency awarded $25 million in Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credits for the rehabilitation of Cincinnati Music Hall.
The agency said the project — which had stiff competition with several others in Ohio — is expected to spur revitalization in Over-the-Rhine.
What this means is that the project can now proceed. It’s a much-needed boost after losing the prospect of gaining $60 million from a new sales tax after being dumped from the “icon tax” levy.Read More »
My favorite holiday music
My favorite music of the season is inspired, beautiful and intimate. Sure, I enjoy the hoopla of a gigantic “Deck the Halls” for 300 voices, full orchestra and dancing reindeer. But I also welcome the chance to slow down, savor and appreciate. There’s nothing like a choral concert sung a cappella in candlelight to make you feel refreshed.
There’s lots of great music on tap this weekend and next. So, wrap those gifts, bake those cookies, race to that choir practice – but don’t forget to sit back and listen. Here are a few of my favorite things.Read More »
Reviews in the news
In case you missed them, here are links to the two shows I reviewed this weekend:
On Thursday, the opera “Hansel and Gretel” at CCM: There’s a moment in the fairy-tale opera “Hansel and Gretel,” when the two hungry and terrified children, lost in the woods, kneel and sing the “Children’s Prayer” against softly falling snow. It’s always heart-stopping, as the sleepy children sing about 14 angels who will guard them through the night. What happens next, in the production mounted Thursday by the opera department of the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, is unexpected and magical.
On Friday, a world premiere at the CSO in Music Hall: The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra has premiered many important pieces since its founding in 1895. On Friday, the orchestra added an engaging new work to the list with the world premiere of a new Double Concerto by the celebrated composer and conductor André Previn. It was performed by violinist Jaime Laredo and cellist Sharon Robinson. Sophisticated and well-crafted, Previn’s new work is a terrific addition to the double concerto repertoire.
