There may be one city in the world that can be considered the capital of New Year’s celebrations and music, and that is Vienna, Austria. With their time-honored concerts, fireworks, and deep cultural traditions, the Viennese have turned these celebrations into an unsurpassed art form. We asked several classical artists to share why they love living in this venerable European city.

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.

Few birds have inspired more composers than the cuckoo. Lisa Flynn selects some of her favorite works inspired by the cuckoo, from intimate chamber works to grand symphonies.

Though the music of your favorite composers might make you smile, chances are, the composers themselves aren’t smiling in their portraits. Until now…

Ravinia Festival president and CEO Welz Kauffman has announced the lineup for this summer’s festival, anchored by the eighty-second annual residency of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The festival and the CSO have extended their summer-residency contract through 2026. James Levine returns to conduct the orchestra and the CSO Chorus in Haydn’s oratorio, The Creation. Also returning is guest conductor Susanna …