Treasured Titles: Exploring the Most Performed Operas of the Last 25 Years

At the quarter-century mark, we dig into the data. What are the most frequently performed operas in the US and worldwide?

Don't Miss a Beat

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

The orchestra 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."

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

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 ...

Chicago, A History in Song

Chicago is world famous for its architectural gems, dramatic skyline, gorgeous lakefront, and distinctive neighborhoods. Alongside the stunning views, the city also has a sound that’s all its own. The vocal ensemble Chicago a cappella opens its 25th anniversary season with an exploration of the Windy City's history in song from its beginnings to the present day, showcasing the city’s unique voice.

Studs Terkel’s most compelling conversations, unpacked for the 21st century in a new podcast

This monthly podcast pairs some of Studs' most compelling conversations with interviews with some of the most exciting voices of today.

Lyric Backstage Video: Danielle de Niese Previews ‘La bohème’

Lyric Opera of Chicago's 2018-19 season opens this weekend with a classic: Puccini's beloved La bohème.

Violinist, professor, pastor among 25 ‘genius grant’ winners

CHICAGO (AP) — A violinist who organizes concerts for the homeless, a professor whose research is being used to increase access to civil justice by poor communities and an activist pastor are among this year’s MacArthur fellows and recipients of so-called genius grants. The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation on Thursday named 25 people, including academics, activists, artists, ...

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