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COFFEE BREAK | Sh*t Classical Musicians Say

By Michael Vincent on February 25, 2015

If you are a classical musician, or know one, you will have heard of few of these doozies...

CRITIC’S PICKS | Ten Musical Outings You Absolutely Must Do This Week

By Michael Vincent on February 25, 2015

Musical Toronto’s weekly Critic’s Picks are a fully curated list of some of the best concerts happening now through the end of the week. Of course this is not to say we are the provocateurs of taste, but simply seek to provide a good weekly summary. For a look at the full breadth of what’s available in and around Toronto, check out the comprehensive concert listings from our friends at Wholenote Magazine...

CLASSICAL LEXICON | Scherzo

By Ludwig Van on February 25, 2015

Scherzo | Noun | ˈskeət.səʊ | (plural scherzos or scherzi) | a fast-moving humorous composition that originated from the early 17th century in various musical forms, but made famous by Beethoven as an alternative to the minuet in symphonies, sonatas and other instrumental forms...

Q&A | 6 Questions for Alexander Shelley

By Lev Bratishenko on February 23, 2015

Interview with Alexander Shelley, announced as NAC Orchestra Music Designate in October 2013.

COFFEE BREAK | Lady Gaga Sings Sound of Music and Nails It.

By Michael Vincent on February 23, 2015

Since Sunday night’s 87th Academy Awards, many have been critical of the nights many snubs, and lack-thereofs. But one thing stuck out – and her name was Lady Gaga...

THE SCOOP | Massey Hall Launches Phase 1 of Revitalisation Project

By Michael Vincent on February 23, 2015

Today the Corporation of Massey Hall and Roy Thomson Hall announced the launch of Phase 1 of its seven-year Massey Hall Revitalization project. The rebirth of one of Canada's flagship arts venues will be completed in two phases, and will cost a total of $135M...

THE CLASSICAL TRAVELER | Van Zweden Conducts Spectacular Ein Heldenleben

By Paul E. Robinson on February 22, 2015

The most memorable performance of Ein Heldenleben I ever heard was in Washington, D.C. January 24, 1965 with Herbert von Karajan conducting the Berlin Philharmonic in a glorious performance. There was an extra-musical dimension to this performance which made it that much more special; Winston Churchill had passed away that morning and Karajan dedicated the performance to his memory. If ever a man had lived a hero’s life, Winston Churchill was surely that man, and watching a German conductor like Karajan, a one-time member of the Nazi party pay tribute to him with this piece engendered in me thoughts and emotions that would last a lifetime...

COFFEE BREAK | Fruit or Composer - the Quiz

By Michael Vincent on February 20, 2015

Do you know your Zucchini from your Zorn? Find out with our fun new quiz and test your knowledge.

CONCERT REVIEW | Three Out of Five Ain't Bad

By Arthur Kaptainis on February 19, 2015

New Works from East and West was the well-travelled theme of the New Music Concert Saturday at the Betty Oliphant Theatre. You could certainly tell them apart without a program, even if there were some instances of what sounded like cross-hemispheric dialogue...

ULTIMATE MAVERICK | Interview with Composer John Luther Adams: Video

By Ludwig Van on February 19, 2015