Stories

close up of timpani instrument and mallets

The Evolution of the Orchestra: Percussion

Humans across cultures have played percussion instruments to accompany music and dance or for ritual, religious, or military purposes. But percussion’s rise in prominence within the context of the Western symphony orchestra only really began in the 20th century.

Jazzmeia Horn, wearing a flowery headdress and a bright orange-red dress, stands in front of a tree trunk

Keegan MorrisJanuary 31, 2024

Musical Events for Black History Month

Mason Bates

Associated PressJanuary 30, 2024

LA Opera scraps world premiere of Bates ‘Kavalier and Clay’

distorted image of needle on vinyl lp

Adela SkowronskiJanuary 30, 2024

Playlist: 6 Classic Songs that Sample Classical Music

10 Indigenous Musicians You Should Know

Adela Skowronski

Celebrating indigenous North American artists creating incredible works in the fields of classical, folk, and even experimental music.

Blake-Anthony Johnson

Respected Chicago Sinfonietta Leader to Depart

Keegan MorrisOctober 31, 2024

Under Blake-Anthony Johnson's helm, the orchestra has seen increases in revenue, budget, musician base pay, and staff.

Playlists

composer John Cage looks thoughtful

A 639-year John Cage composition is about to have its next note change

Associated PressJanuary 24, 2024

On Feb. 5, 2024, another note is going to begin playing... this one will be relatively short; it will hang around for only the next two years.

vivid abstract art showing jazz music notes and shapes

Playlist: Jazz Takes on Classical Greats

Keegan MorrisJanuary 20, 2024

The special bond between jazz and classical is growing closer by the day. So let's appreciate these incredible renditions of timeless classical favorites!

Third Coast Baroque: 11 musicians in a sunlit red brick hallway; some with their instruments including violins, cello, theorbo, and charango.

Third Coast Baroque Announces Closure

Adela SkowronskiJanuary 17, 2024

The Chicago early-music ensemble faced diminishing audience sizes and reduced grant funding possibilities after years of concert disruptions by COVID-19.