David Cohen: A one-man classical band

Yes we can (music dept.): A one-man classical band on a mission

David Cohen grew up in dire poverty in Philadelphia but made a career for himself, first as a pastry chef and then as a multi-talented musician. And at 47, he may just be getting started in promoting his twin passions: classical music and feeding the hungry.

Maria Thompson Corley

Jan 10, 2009 · Articles · 6 minute read

The Crossing at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian

Taking chances at The Crossing

In its fourth year, The Crossing conveys a depth of vision and a commitment to innovative programming that many older, more-established choral ensembles would envy.

Dave Allen

Jan 06, 2009 · Articles · 4 minute read

Unsung musical heroes: The entrepreneurs

The unsung folks behind the scenes: Let us now praise musical entrepreneurs

Performers and music lovers alike owe a debt to the unsung heroes of Philadelphia's cultural scene. This New Year, let's pause to toast the small but growing band of visionaries who create and maintain our musical organizations.

Tom Purdom

Dec 30, 2008 · Articles · 4 minute read

Two concerts in art galleries

Can music and pictures coexist?

Holding a concert in an art gallery is a risky business. The very different sensations of aural and visual stimuli compete for attention, often to the detriment of one and occasionally of both. Two recent concerts took this risk, yielding results that mostly honored their roots.

Dave Allen

Dec 21, 2008 · Articles · 5 minute read

Orchestra 2001 plays Messiaen

Legacy of a cosmic romantic

Orchestra 2001 marks the 100th birthday of Olivier Messiaen with two pieces that capture the cosmic and deeply personal feelings behind his work.

Tom Purdom

Dec 16, 2008 · Articles · 3 minute read

In Praise of Christmas Carols

Beyond Muzak: A few kind words for Christmas music

This is the time of year when no one can escape Christmas music. Which may be a good thing, since they're beautifully written. A professional musician offers her guide to making the most, musically, of the holiday season.

Maria Thompson Corley

Dec 14, 2008 · Articles · 4 minute read

Lucinda Williams and Bob Dylan

Lucinda Williams and Bob Dylan: Two trains running (in opposite directions)

I can't believe that the renowned perfectionist Lucinda Williams doesn't know, in her heart of hearts, that her latest album, “Little Honey,” is a mess. Bob Dylan's impact on our culture, on the other hand, continues to be as deep as Beethoven's or Shakespeare's.

Dan Coren

Dec 14, 2008 · Articles · 8 minute read

"Damnation of Faust' at the Met

The other Faust also rises

Berlioz wrote The Damnation of Faust in 1846 as a concert opera. The Met's new production is a multi-media extravaganza marked by striking imagery.

Steve Cohen

Dec 14, 2008 · Articles · 4 minute read

Ricardo Morales plus

A showcase for Morales (and two others)

Novel programming adds extra spice to a recital that features clarinetist Ricardo Morales and two other local stars.

Tom Purdom

Dec 14, 2008 · Articles · 3 minute read

Lidia Kaminska accordion recital

To take the accordion seriously? That is the question

Lidia Kaminska's accordion made a big hit with a big crowd. But one audience member would have been happier if the program had included more collaboration with other instruments.

Dec 14, 2008 · Articles · 3 minute read