Stories

Byron Janis, renowned American classical pianist who overcame debilitating arthritis, dies at 95

In 1960, Janis was selected as the first musician to tour the then-USSR as part of a cultural exchange program organized by the U.S. State Department.

Michael San GabinoMarch 27, 2020

Discover Illinois’ Newest Opera Company — Opera Edwardsville

Keegan MorrisMarch 27, 2020

With Centennial Concert Canceled, Civic Orchestra to Present Virtual Performance

Louise FrankMarch 27, 2020

Billy Collins Recites his Conversational, Observational, Quirky Poems

Anne Harris blues and roots singer songwriter violinist

Blues & Roots Artist Anne Harris on Alchemy, Music, and Improv

Keegan MorrisDecember 12, 2021

"I made a very concerted deal with myself that I wanted to take the instrument the route of improvisation in the idioms of American roots music, folk music, Americana, blues."

Chopin’s last piano gets its 19th-century features back

Associated PressDecember 9, 2021

The last piano on which Frederic Chopin played and composed is being renovated by a U.S. expert who is giving it back its original mid-19th century characteristics.

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A Printable Classical Coloring Sheet, Thanks to David Lee Csicsko!

Keegan MorrisMarch 27, 2020

With everyone cooped up inside, David Lee Csicsko returns with another great design. Our four avian conductors perch, waiting for an orchestra. You'll notice that they're also waiting for a splash of color, so print it out and paint, crayon, pencil, or marker to your heart's content!

Quick Change: Atlanta Opera Costume Department Starts Making Medical Masks

Keegan MorrisMarch 26, 2020

Amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Atlanta Opera’s costume and wardrobe department nailed a quick change, pivoting from costuming singers to outfitting medical professionals.

Sheku Kanneh-Mason: ‘Being interested is what makes you interesting as a musician’

Keegan MorrisMarch 25, 2020

In 2018, 1.9 billion people around the world watched the young cellist — he was just 19 years old at the time — perform during the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Now, he's released his second album, a collaboration with Sir Simon Rattle and the London Symphony Orchestra.

Midday with Lisa Flynn