Insight With Beth Ruyak

Trombonist Chris Brubeck Joins The Folsom Lake Symphony

October 16, 2019

The name Brubeck is a familiar one to jazz lovers. And Chris Brubeck is no stranger to Northern California. He’ll play his trombone concerto with the Folsom Lake Symphony and Music Director Peter Jaffe this Saturday at the Harris Center.

New Classical Tracks: John Lunn's New 'Downton Abbey' Film Score Is Fit For A King (And Queen)

October 9, 2019

This week on New Classical Tracks, Scottish composer John Lunn discusses the soundtrack for the new film adaptation of 'Downton Abbey.'

Composer Hildur Guðnadóttir Finds The Humanity In 'Joker'

October 3, 2019

"Joker" is a psychological character study of a disturbed man who turns violent. To give the comic book villain human depth, composer Hildur Guðnadóttir had to dig deep and empathize with the character.

New Classical Tracks: Film Composer Danny Elfman's 'Wild Ride' Continues With Classical Album

October 2, 2019

This week on New Classical Tracks, film composer Danny Elfman, best known for writing 'The Simpsons' theme, discusses his successful foray into classical music with a new recording of his violin concerto and piano quartet.

Opera Singer Jessye Norman Dies At 74

September 30, 2019

Norman was one of the leading African American opera figures in a time when there were fewer than now. The soprano won four Grammys and the National Medal of Arts.

New Classical Tracks: Bluegrass Banjo Picking And Irish Fiddle Tunes Inspire Michael Torke's 'Sky'

September 25, 2019

Michael Torke has been composing for more than 50 years. He found his voice while studying at the Eastman School of Music. He's explored a variety of genres from opera to orchestral music.

Met Opera Faces 'One More Catastrophic Crisis' As Employees Must Work With Domingo

September 20, 2019

One of opera's most popular and bankable stars is scheduled to sing at New York's famed opera house next week. But a number of Met employees say that they find the situation untenable.

Why Is American Classical Music So White?

September 20, 2019

Early American composers could have shaken off their European sound and mined the rich trove of African American music. They didn't. And one historian believes we're worse off because of it.

New Classical Tracks: Yolanda Kondonassis Premieres New Harp Concerto By Jennifer Higdon In 'American Rapture'

September 11, 2019

Harpist Yolanda Kondonassis and conductor Ward Stare share insights into their new album 'American Rapture,' which features the world premiere of a new harp concerto by Jennifer Higdon.

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra And Musicians Continue To Clash As New Season Approaches

September 10, 2019

After nearly a year, the 103-year-old orchestra's musicians and management are still at odds over a new contract. Its new season is scheduled to begin on Saturday.