Why striking CSO musicians and management are at impasse
Two issues above all precipitated the strike that the Chicago Symphony Orchestra called on Sunday evening: pensions and salary. Both sides — musicians and management — agree on at least...
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CSO musicians picket in front of Orchestra Hall after announcing strike
For the first time since 2012, the musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra went on strike on Sunday evening. “We have been clear from the beginning that we will not...
Jazz reviews: D’Rivera at his best with Chicagoan Levy
The high point of reedist Paquito D’Rivera’s set Friday night in Orchestra Hall arrived toward the end, when he invited an unannounced guest to the stage. Those who have followed...
CSO review: Impressive debut from pianist Angelich in Beethoven’s ‘Emperor’
Any soloist’s Chicago Symphony Orchestra debut raises hopes and expectations, the performer testing himself or herself against one of the world’s most revered ensembles. That responsibility and opportunity came to...
Riccardo Muti on CSO contract talks: ‘I am with the musicians’
Chicago Symphony Orchestra music director Riccardo Muti has sent a letter to board chair Helen Zell and president Jeff Alexander expressing support for the musicians in current contract talks, according...
Feddeck to replace Afkham at CSO concerts
James Feddeck – a winner of the Solti Conducting Award, Aspen Conducting Prize and a former assistant conductor of the Cleveland Orchestra – will replace guest conductor David Afkham at...
A big moment for CSO piccolo whiz, Jennifer Gunn
The piccolo doesn’t draw much attention in this noisy world of ours, but it’s getting ready for its closeup. Starting March 14, Chicago Symphony Orchestra piccoloist/flutist Jennifer Gunn will play...
Chi-Town Jazz Fest gears up for its 10th
Creating a jazz festival that lasts 10 years is no small feat, particularly when all the musicians, club owners and others are donating their services. But Chicago guitarist John Moulder...
Lyric Opera review: A startling update of Handel’s ‘Ariodante’
This has been a rough year for the stars at Lyric Opera. After opening as Violetta in “La Traviata,” soprano Albina Shagimuratova has been forced to miss several performances due...
A sweeping history of gospel music in prose and song
No city has played a larger role in the emergence and nurturance of gospel music than Chicago, so listeners here – and beyond – have ample reason to applaud the...