When Russia invaded Ukraine this winter, orchestras around the world opened their concerts by performing the Ukrainian National Anthem in support of the country. That show of solidarity, while heartening, reminds us that Ukraine’s classical composers and musical contributions are far more significant than many people realize, writes Elena Dubinets, and it’s time for that to change.
From the Editor Pick your metaphor—roller coaster, crapshoot, whack-a-mole—the sheer unpredictability of the global pandemic and the swift spread of the Omicron variant have forced life once again into a state of near-constant recalibrations, revisions, shutdowns, returns. That’s not to make light of the tragic impact of COVID-19, which is real and heartbreaking. Still, it’s …
Ray Chen isn’t your standard violin virtuoso. He has carved out a distinctive profile with a longstanding embrace of social media, aiming to make classical music more accessible, more relatable— and still brilliant. Here, Chen writes about how his latest digital project expanded his idea of what a musical community can be.
Our annual listing of emerging composers, conductors, ensembles, and soloists is inspired by the breadth and sheer volume of young classical talent.
Composers have never shied from difficult subject matter or recent tragedies, but the period that began in March 2020 has been particularly challenging. Five creators share how they are documenting, reflecting, and responding with new orchestral works.
Many emerging musicians were about to make their marks at orchestras nationwide when the pandemic hit. Some put their careers on pause, while others performed online or used the time to address issues of racial equity and social justice. As concert life gradually returns, what’s next for emerging musicians in today’s shifting landscape?
The pandemic may not be over, but this fall felt different, as fuller indoor concert schedules resumed. A recent concert road trip proved how much in-person concerts have been missed by audiences and musicians alike.
The League of American Orchestras is helping orchestras by researching and reporting how orchestras—and their audiences—are dealing with the pandemic.
Volunteer groups at orchestras are seeking younger and more diverse volunteers to better reflect today’s society and to connect their message and mission with their communities.