The impact of COVID-19 on ticket sales for the performing arts is getting worse. That is the finding of a new monthly study—the September “COVID-19 Sector Benchmark Insight Report”—by TRG Arts, international arts … » Read

The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago has canceled its entire 2020-21 season at the Lyric Opera House. The decision will cost the troupe over $9 million at the box office. At the same time, the company will make available plenty of online material, with … » Read

Handel’s opera Rinaldo offers unusual opportunities for instrumental virtuosity, of which the most charming is the recorder obbligato in a classic “bird call” aria. Tabea Debus did the honors for the English Concert’s 2018 … » Read

The death of Breonna Taylor, a 26-year-old EMT, at the hands of Louisville police is but one instance of violence against Black people that has roiled the U.S. over the past year. Incidents that seem to occur with alarming regularity have had a … » Read

To cope with what is increasingly looking like a universally dark and/or streamed 2020-21 season, many orchestras are outlining new terms with their musicians that will enable both sides to continue working but at reduced circumstances. These … » Read

Pre-eminent clarinetist Michael Collins is to be the new artistic director in-residence of the London Mozart Players, a two-year appointment that starts September 2021 and fits in well with his evolution into conducting. LMP has recently launched … » Read

While most American symphony orchestras are challenged in their attempts to build diverse audiences, staffs, and boards, the Chicago Sinfonietta is the exception that proves the rule. In 1987 the late conductor and activist Paul Freeman , founded … » Read

Even if you can’t see a lot of opera on stage right now, there are still plenty of chances to hear it on record with four intriguing contemporary American works among the best of the recent releases. Missy Mazzoli ’s track record as a … » Read

Breaking 84 years of tradition, American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) has for the first time ever endorsed a presidential candidate. At the urging of the (unaffiliated) Soloists Coalition , not to mention its national membership, AGMA on … » Read

The Save Our Stages Act, which was  given a “kick in the gut” when Congress adjourned on August 13 without considering it, is part of the Heroes Act, which has been  gridlocked in Congress for several months. As of September … » Read