Chicago Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster Robert Chen and pianist Matthew Hagle return to WFMT for a program of works by Brahms, Ysaÿe, C. Schumann, and R. Strauss. Monday at 8:00 pm.
“The Only Thing I Want To See in Opera is a Good Story” — Librettist Wende Persons on Patience & Sarah and Patience
Librettist Wende Persons on the creation of Patience & Sarah, an opera based on a self-published novel by Isabel Miller (aka Alma Routsong) of the same name. Third Eye Theatre Ensemble's production runs through October 21 at Chicago's Theater Wit.
Lyric Opera says labor deal reached with striking musicians
CHICAGO (AP) — The Lyric Opera of Chicago says it has reached a multi-year labor deal with striking musicians. A statement released by the music company Saturday night says the agreement would extend through the 2020-21 season, if ratified by members of the Chicago Federation of Musicians, Local 10-208. The Lyric Opera’s 64th season was disrupted Tuesday when musicians walked ...
From her first recital to her latest album, violinist Hilary Hahn’s enduring bond with Bach’s music
Bach has been a part of Grammy-winning violinist Hilary Hahn's life, both in practice and performance, nearly every day since she was nine years old. Her most recent album explores her ongoing fascination with the composer. Hahn spoke with us about the start of her musical journey with Bach, the challenges and rewards of playing his music, and how musical discoveries—even in live performance—keep Baroque music fresh for 21st century listeners.
♪ Treat Yo Self to Retta’s 5 Favorite Classical Works ♪
Actress and comedian Retta grabbed classical music lovers’ attention when she appeared on Conan O’Brien’s late night talk show, Conan when she revealed that she loves to treat herself to classical music. We spoke with Retta to find out what classical works she wants you to treat yo self to and why.
Stolen Stradivarius found after decades comes to life again
NEW YORK (AP) — The Stradivarius stolen from the late violinist Roman Totenberg and miraculously found more than three decades later has a new life — under the chin of a budding 18-year-old virtuoso. On Tuesday in New York, his three daughters presented the multimillion-dollar instrument on long-term loan to Juilliard student Nathan Meltzer. Jill Totenberg says she and her ...
Lyric Opera of Chicago Orchestra on strike
On October 9, 2018, the musicians of the Lyric Opera of Chicago Orchestra announced that they were on strike. The orchestra, which is represented by the Chicago Federation of Musicians (CFM), said on its website and social media accounts, “Over the past 65 years, Chicago’s citizens, civic leaders, and philanthropists built a world-class opera company for a world-class city. The ...
Postcards from Poland and Prague | A Musical Journey with Host Peter van de Graaff
WFMT listeners love to explore classical music destinations around the world. From September 22 to October 3, we enjoyed an Earthbound Expeditions trip filled with great concerts, great food, and great companionship throughout Poland and the Czech Republic.
Spanish opera singer Montserrat Caballé dies at 85
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — Montserrat Caballé, a Spanish opera singer renowned for her bel canto technique and her interpretations of the roles of Rossini, Bellini, and Donizetti, has died. She was 85.
Mormon no more: Tabernacle Choir renamed in big church shift
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — The world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir will be singing the same tune but under a new name. The choir was renamed Friday to strip out the word Mormon in a move aimed at ending shorthand names for the religion that have been used for generations by church members and others. The singers will now be called ...
Cervantes of ‘Hamilton,’ REO to lead Illinois 200th birthday
CHICAGO (AP) — A Gettysburg Address rap by Broadway in Chicago’s Hamilton star Miguel Cervantes, Illinois-bred rockers REO Speedwagon and a cast of Prairie State celebrities will highlight the state’s 200th birthday party Dec. 3. The bicentennial extravaganza ‘s lineup was announced Thursday. The theme of the party at Chicago’s United Center is “Born, Built and Grown in Illinois.” A tribute ...
