St. Louis classical calendar for the week of March 28, 2016

Time for Three

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The Community Music School of Webster University presents a concert by Time for Three on Thursday, March 31, at 7:30 p.m. "The classically trained trio (Nicholas Kendall and Nikki Chooi, violins; and Ranaan Meyer, double bass) defies any traditional genre classification. With virtuosity and showmanship, the trio performs music from Bach to Brahms and beyond, including originals and their own arrangements of everything from bluegrass to ingenious pop-music mash-ups." The Community Music School is at 535 Garden Avenue on the Webster University campus. For more information: webster.edu/cms.

DaySpring Arts and Education presents a Bach Birthday Bash on Friday, April 1, at 7:00 p.m. "DaySpring students and faculty are joined by members of the Bach Society of Saint Louis for a fun and educational concert showcasing Johann Sebastian Bach's large body of work. Listen to pieces on period instruments, enjoy unique dance collaborations with DaySpring's Volé Connection, learn about the 330-year-old master's extensive career and life, and be entertained by Saint Louis's oldest continuous chorus." The performance takes place in the Black Box at DaySpring Arts and Education's new state-of-the-art facility, 2500 Metro Blvd. Maryland Heights, MO. For more information: dayspringarts.org.

Eliot Unitarian Chapel presents a Friends of Music concert on Sunday, April 3, at 3 PM. The program features music by Mozart, Brahms, and Telemann. The concert takes place at Eliot Unitarian Chapel is at 100 South Argonne in Kirkwood. For more information: fomcstl.org.

The Ethical Society presents a Great Artist Guitar Series concert with Lukasz Kuropaczewski on Saturday, April 2, at 8 p.m. "A native of Gniezno, Poland, Mr. Kuropaczewski studied with Manuel Barrueco at the Peabody Conservatory, awarded the Artist Diploma in 2008. He has appeared on stage at the Royal Festival Hall in London, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the National Philharmonic Hall in Warsaw, Tchaikovsky Hall in Moscow and Carnegie Hall in New York. " The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road. For more information: ethicalstl.org.

2 Cellos

The Fox Theatre presents 2 Cellos on Thursday, March 31, at 7:30 p.m. "Propelled into international fame in 2011 after their version of Michael Jackson's "Smooth Criminal” went viral, the Croatian cellists, Luka Sulic and Stjepan Hauser, continue to wow their fans with dynamic music videos and covers of today's most classic and popular songs. Most recently their Baroque inspired, yet high octane head-banging video of AC/DC's "Thunderstruck” garnered over 45 Million views to date. The duo returned to their rock roots on their recently released, critically acclaimed, third album Celloverse.” The Fox Theatre is at 527 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: fabulousfox.com.

David Robertson conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra with soprano soloist Susanna Phillips in Ravel's Mother Goose Suite, Claude Vivier's Lonely Child and Mahler's Symphony No. 4 on Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m., April 2 and 3. "Originally composed for the enjoyment of young children at the piano, Ravel's Mother Goose Suite was later transcribed for full orchestra, offering audiences a vivid orchestration of the adolescent fairytale. Mahler also reveals the innocence of youth depicting a child's view of celestial bliss in the finale of his Fourth Symphony. Returning after her captivating 2013 performance in Peter Grimes with the STL Symphony, soprano Susanna Phillips will astound audiences singing the finale of Mahler's Fourth." Performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Second Presbyterian Church presents Cortango Orquesta on Friday, April 1, at 7:0 p.m. "Cortango Orquesta – an ensemble of musicians from The St. Louis Symphony with Cally Banham, English horn and oboe, Asako Kuboki, violin, David DeRiso, bass, and guest pianist Adam Maness– team up with Principal Harp Allegra Lilly to perform a concert that features tango with a symphonic twist. Free and open to the public." The church is at 4501 Westminster Place in the Central West End. For more information: secondchurch.net.

Julia Bullock
sheldonconcerthall.org

The Sheldon Concert Hall presents soprano Julia Bullock and pianist Renate Rohlfine on Wednesday, March 30, at 8 PM. "Soprano Julia Bullock is a rising star in the opera world, with performances in New York, Boston, San Francisco and Paris to her credit. A St. Louis native and graduate of Opera Theatre's Artist-in-Training program, Bullock won the 2014 Naumburg International Vocal Competition, and is currently pursuing an Artist Diploma at The Juilliard School. Don't miss an exciting performance by a singer The New York Times hails as "ravishingly visceral.”” The Sheldon is at 3648 Washington in Grand Center. For more information: thesheldon.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents tenor Phil Touchette and pianist Jon Garrett in Liederabend: Beloved Schubert and Brahms Songs on Wednesday, March 30, at 8 p.m. "Tenor Phil Touchette returns to the Tavern with pianist Jon Garrett for a Liederabend recital of beloved songs by Franz Schubert and Johannes Brahms. In addition to these works, Phil has prepared a special set comprised of well known "Lieder" that didn't originate in German, but have become quite popular in German-speaking countries. Do you want to know the theme? You'll have to come and join us." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents baritone Erik Olson and pianist Jon Garrett on Friday, April 2, at 8 p.m. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Reuel Umali, tenor and Diana Umali, piano on Saturday, April 3 at 8 p.m. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Town and Country Symphony Orchestra presents a special Holiday Concert on Sunday, April 3, at 2:30 PM. "The Orchestra also performs in a variety of musical styles — classical, pops, Christmas pops, operettas, and oratorios." The performance includes David Diamond's Rounds for String Orchestra and Peter Warlock's Capriol Suite and takes place at Parkway UCC Auditorium, 2841 N. Ballas Road. For more information: tcsomo.org.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of February 8, 2016

Xufei Yang
Photo: EMI Classics / Paul Mitchell

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The Ethical Society presents a Great Artist Guitar Series concert with Xuefei Yang on Saturday, February 13, at 8 p.m. "Born in Beijing and now based in the UK, she was the first-ever guitarist in China to enter a music school (Beijing's Central Conservatory of Music), and the first Chinese guitarist to launch an international professional career. A master of many styles from baroque to contemporary, Ms. Yang is committed to expanding the guitar repertoire, including the music of China." The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road. For more information: ethicalstl.org.

The St. Louis Chamber Chorus presents Concert Four: Languish With Love on Sunday, February 14, at 3 p.m. "Music in honor of love is the natural complement for this day. We present Romances by Robert Schumann, Rakastava by Jean Sibelius, and a hymn to Juno, goddess of marriage, by Orlandus Lassus. Our modern masterwork is the passionate Amore Langueo of Francis Pott, which is paired with a commission from Clare Maclean." The concert takes place at Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 Soulard St. in Soulard. For more information: www.chamberchorus.org.

Anibal Diaz Dance With Carmen Morelos
Telemundo studios, Miami

The St. Louis Cultural Flamenco Society presents the Anibal Diaz Dance Company performing a world premier of Argentina-Andalucia, Two Tangos on Saturday, February 13, at 8 p.m. Passion, sensuality, virtuosity and rivalry are elements connecting two cultures in the same staging. Two Tangos, the Argentine Tango and the Flamenco Tango - come to the stage, with the most powerful expression of a New Vision through Dance, where passion and challenge dominate this presentation. Choreography by Anibal Diaz General Directo, Artistic Director Marisel Salascruz. The performance takes place at the Sheldon Concert Hall in Grand Center. For more information: stlouisflamenco.org.

The St. Louis Symphony presents Lift Every Voice: A Black History Month Celebration on Friday, February 12, at 7:30 p.m. Join conductor Kevin McBeth, special guest artist Larnelle Harris, and the STL Symphony IN UNISON Chorus to commemorate the legacy of African-American art, music, culture and community. The concert takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The St. Louis Symphony presents A Night of Symphonic Rock on Saturday, February 13, at 7:30 p.m. "Bringing the sounds of the Strip to Powell Hall, this concert features the swingin' tunes of the Rat Pack and songs from Vegas icons including Tom Jones, Neil Diamond, Elvis Presley and more. A cast of crooners join the orchestra for this afternoon of romantic favorites including "Luck Be a Lady," "Young at Heart," "The Way You Look Tonight" and more!" The concert takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The St. Louis Symphony presents A Las Vegas Valentine's Songbook on Sunday, February 14, at 3 p.m. Kansas' John Elefante joins the STL Symphony for an evening devoted to your favorite classic rock bands this Valentine's Day weekend. With songs from Aerosmith, Foreigner, Journey, Led Zepplin and more, relive generations of classic rock that changed music forever. The concert takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

Alarm Will Sound

The Sheldon Concert Hall presents the contemporary chamber ensemble Alarm Will Sound on Friday, February 12, at 8 PM. "The ensemble performs the newest music being composed today with energetic virtuosity and a sense of adventure, creating programs that not only span a wide range of styles, but also transform the traditional concert experience itself." The Sheldon is at 3648 Washington in Grand Center. For more information: thesheldon.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a classical open stage night on Monday, February 8, from 7:30 - 9 PM. "Come by yourself or bring your quartet. Sight read through a Beethoven quartet or use this as an opportunity to put the finishing touches on that Hindemith Viola Sonata you have been working on. All ages and skill levels are welcome. We have a 6' grand piano and an accompanist." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Cupid's Celebration: A Senses in Harmony Production on Saturday, February 13, at 8 p.m. "Cupid and his friends would be delighted to entertain you for this cheery holiday! Our collective goal will be to transport us all back to the sweet days of annual Valentine's parties in grade school. Music, art, laughter, and many fun surprises are in store! " The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of November 2, 2015

Nasville Ballet's Carmina Burana

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Dance St. Louis presents the Nashville Ballet production of Carl Orff's Carmina Burana Friday and Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM. The production features 120 singers, 60 musicians, and 40 dancers, including The University of Missouri-St. Louis Orchestra and Singers, The Bach Society of Saint Louis and The St. Louis Children's Choir. The opening act for Carmina Burana a world premiere performed by Saint Louis Ballet and choreographed by Dance St. Louis Artistic and Executive Director Michael Uthoff. Performances take place at the Touhill Center on the University of Missouri-St. Louis campus. For more information: dancestlouis.org.

The Ethical Society presents a Great Artist Guitar Series concert with Duo Miric on Saturday, November 7, at 8 p.m. Identical twin sisters Tanja Miric and Darka (Kooienga) Miric, natives of Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina-were presented at the GFA convention in Louisville, KY. in 2013. Their awards include winners of theB.G. Walden Memorial Scholarship at Mississippi College, and First Place awards at the MMTA, MFMC, and University of Texas Ensemble Festival competitions." The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road. For more information: ethicalstl.org.

Charlemagne Palestine

The New Music Circle presents Charlemagne Palestine on Saturday, November 7, at 8 p.m. "Charlemagne Palestine may not be a considered a household name in all circles, but his moniker is one you would be unlikely to forget. Now at the age of 70, Palestine has made a name for himself as a musician unlike any other, his signature style being comprised of long evolving drones and sustained notes, often involving installations of stuffed animals that envelope the performance space." The performance takes place at The Pulitzer Arts Foundation, 3716 Washington in Grand Center. For more information: newmusiccircle.org.

The New Music Circle presents a pipe organ concert by Charlemagne Palestine on Sunday, November 8, at 7 p.m. "Charlemagne Palestine will be joined by a live processed video feed led by Chad Eivins and Kevin Harris, two of St. Louis' most regarded moving image artists." The performance takes place at Trinity Lutheran Church, 812 Soulard Street in Soulard. For more information: newmusiccircle.org.

The St. Louis Chamber Chorus presents Concert Two: In Every Corner Sing on Sunday, November 8, at 3 p.m. "Music scored for multiple choirs is heard to grand effect in this spacious acoustic. Offerings by Monteverdi and Vaughan Williams, and a commission from contemporary British master Gabriel Jackson, complement more elaborate settings by Thea Musgrave (Make We Merry), Knut Nystedt (Immortal Bach, for 5 choirs) and Thomas Tallis (Spem in Alium, in forty parts)." The concert takes place at St. Louis Abbey6, 500 S. Mason Road in Creve Coeur. For more information: www.chamberchorus.org.

Orli Shaham
Photo: Christian Steiner

Nicholas McGegan conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, with piano soloist Orli Shaham, on Friday at 10:30 a.m. and Saturday at 8 p.m., November 6 and 7. "With 'playing marked by delicacy, agility and a sense of fun' (St. Louis Post-Dispatch), pianist Orli Shaham shines in Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 9, a work full of profound emotion written by the composer at the age of 21. Nicholas McGegan brings these concerts to a stunning conclusion with Haydn's Symphony No. 98, the first piece completed by Haydn after learning of Mozart's death." The concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The St. Louis Wind Symphony and pianist Jennifer Lim-Judd perform Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue and other wind band compositions on Sunday, November 8, at 3:00 PM. The performance takes place at Kirkwood High School Keating Theater, 801 West Essex in Kirkwood. For more information: stlwindsym.org.

Webster University presents pianist Carol Schmidt and Friends in Humor and Music on Sunday, November 8, at 4:00 p.m. A member of the Webster Jazz Faculty, Carol Schmidt creates a program of funny business - music intended to make us laugh and perhaps bring on a happy mood! Expect quiet chuckles and outright guffaws as Webster University’s Department of Music faculty and friends reach the lighter side of their performance personalities. The program includes music by Gershwin, Satie, and Thelonius Monk performed by vocalists Debby Lennon, Martha Hunt, and Jeffrey Carter, along with pianists Kim Portnoy, Daniel Schene, and Carol Schmidt and bassist Ric Vice. The performance takes place in the Winifred Moore Auditorium 470 E. Lockwood on the Webster University campus. For more information: webster.edu.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of June 22, 2015

Thomas Murrah

The American Guild of Organists presents an organ recital by Thomas Murray on Wednesday, June 24, at 8:15 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis at 4431 Lindell.  “Murray is organist and professor at Yale University and will play works of Duruflé, Grieg, Mozart, and Saint-Saëns.”  For more information: www.agostlouis.org

Christ Church Cathedral presents an organ concert by Christopher Marks on Monday, June 22, at 7:30 p.m.  "Marks is organ professor at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and will play works of Seth Bingham, Marcel Dupré, and Leo Sowerby." Christ Church Cathedral is at 13th and Olive downtown.  For more information: christchurchconcerts.org.

The Compton Heights Concert Band presents free Sunday Serenades concerts featuring marches, show tunes and classical favorites on Sundays at 7:30 PM, June 28 – July 26.  This week's concert features baritone soloist Robert Ellison and includes a performance of Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" complete with cannons.  The concerts takes place in Francis Park at Donovan and Eichelberger on the Compton Heights Band’s "Carol Joy Brooks Memorial" Stage.  For more information: chband.org

The Ethical Society presents The Legend Singers in concert on Thursday, June 26, at 6 p.m.  "It’s time for The Legend Singers Chorale Ensemble’s concert and tribute to Black Music History Month! We had the Divas (Women) in 2013 and the Music Royals, Kings, Princes & Dukes (Men) in 2014. This year we are celebrating African-American music genres and Family Performers!" The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road.  For more information: ethicalstl.org.

The Barber of Seville
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Rossini's comedy The Barber of Seville Saturday, June 27, at 8 p.m.. "There's a good reason it's one of the world's most popular operas! Rossini's zany and sparkling score sets the gold standard for opera that is fresh, elegant, funny, and brimming with vocal fireworks. Delight as the young barber Figaro helps Count Almaviva steal the beautiful Rosina from under the nose of her doddering guardian." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Emmeline
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Tobias Picker's drama Emmeline Thursday, June 25, at 8 p.m. and Saturday, June 27, at 1 p.m. " Inspired by a compelling true story from a mill town in 19th century New England, Emmeline's heart-wrenching saga echoes the age-old Oedipus legend." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents A Little Lunch Music, a free concert with soprano Felicia Moore (Harriet Mosher in Emmeline), mezzo-soprano Emily Fons (Rosina in The Barber of Seville), baritone Jonathan Beyer (Figaro in The Barber of Seville), and pianist Andrea Grant, on Monday, June 22 at 12:30 PM.  The concert takes place at Manchester United Methodist Church, 129 Woods Mills Road in Manchester.  For more information, you may visit experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644.

Richard the Lionheart
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents the American premiere of Handel's Richard the Lionheart Wednesday and Friday at 8 p.m., June 24 and 26. "If you only know him from Robin Hood, you don't know the whole story of Richard the Lionheart. Shipwrecked on the way to the Third Crusade, one of England's bravest kings must disguise himself to protect his future bride and prevent war in a foreign land. But who can he trust in this all-too-real game of thrones? Handel's virtuosic vocal writing in this opera, never before heard in the United States, makes Richard an eagerly-anticipated event for all music-lovers." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

La Rondine
Photo: Ken Howard

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Puccini's La Rondine Wednesday, June 24, at 1 p.m. and Sunday, June 28, at 7 p.m. " Can a beautiful, sophisticated Parisian courtesan find happiness with a young man from the country? Or is her love affair doomed by a past she cannot keep secret? Celebrated OTSL music directorStephen Lord brings Puccini's gorgeous music and romantic storytelling to life in this stunning, newbelle epoque period production." Performances take place at the Loretto-Hilton Center at 135 Edgar Road on the Webster University campus. All performances are sung in English with projected English text. For more information: experienceopera.org or call 314-961-0644. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra presents The Music of U2 on Friday, June 26, at 7:30 p.m.   "Dubbed by Rolling Stone as the ‘Biggest Band in the World,’ U2 has released 13 albums and sold more than 150 million records worldwide. Channeling the global celebrity stardom of frontman Bono and the musicians of U2, conductor Brent Haven, the STL Symphony and a rock band perform U2’s greatest hits.”  The performance takes place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand.  For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents cellist Bjorn Ranheim in a program of Bach's Cello Suites 1, 3, and 5 on Monday, June 22, at 8 PM.  The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood.  For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of March 23, 2015

The Chamber Project St. Louis

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The Ethical Society presents Jubilee—A Landmark Celebration on Sunday, March 29, at 7 p.m. "Celebrating 50 years of residing in their one of a kind home in Clayton, the Ethical Society of St. Louis invites you to a birthday concert featuring Chamber Project Saint Louis and Friends. The Trombones of the St. Louis Symphony and organist Nick Bideler join us in an eclectic program featuring music that spans the eras, from the Renaissance to Bach, Mozart, and on to the 20th Century." The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road. For more information: ethicalstl.org.

Fabio Zanon

The Ethical Society presents a Great Artist Guitar Series concert with Fabio Zanon on Saturday, March 28, at 8 p.m. "As a solo and chamber player, author, conductor, teacher, broadcaster and guitarist, Fabio Zanon has shown himself a musician of great importance. This native Brazilian won both the Francisco Tarrega Competition in Spain and the GFA Competition here in St. Louis in 1996. In 2009 he published his first book, Villa-Lobos, to mark the 50th anniversary of the death of this great Brazilian composer. Fabio last performed for us in March 2003. This performance has been re-scheduled from March 22, 2014." The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road. For more information: ethicalstl.org.

Maryville University presents World War I Remembered on Thursday, March 26, at 7:30 p.m. "Maryville University is observing the centennial of the start of World War I, a devastating conflict with far-reaching effects. Maryville Music faculty and invited guests will explore aspects of the musical culture of this pivotal era during a one time evening performance. The musical presentation features popular music of the time, as well as concert works by Granados, Janácek, Britten, and Ravel. This recital, among other events, are sponsored by the Medart Lectures and held in conjunction with the exhibit, World War I: Remembered, in the Morton J. May Foundation gallery—an exhibition to recognize and contemplate the 100th year anniversary of 'the War to End All Wars''. The concert takes place at the Maryville University Auditorium, 650 Maryville University Drive. For more information: maryvillesymphony.com.

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Opera Tastings on Thursday, March 26, at 7 p.m. "Join Opera Theatre of Saint Louis for the first year of a new interactive concert series, 'Opera Tastings.' It's a fun and delicious way to inspire Young Friends or other opera newcomers to discover opera for the first time. Enjoy music from across the history of opera in a one-hour concert, as each aria or duet is paired with samples of wine or small bites designed to highlight the qualities of the music. Selections include excerpts from Handel, Mozart, Puccini, and Verdi, among others. Singers include four of OTSL's past and upcoming artists, including Sydney Mancasola, soprano, Shirin Eskandani, Geoffrey Agpalo, and Erik Van Heyningen. Internationally celebrated conductor Ryan McAdams, a St. Louis native who returns to lead OTSL's season-opening production of 'The Barber of Seville,' emcees each evening, alongside the chef from HERBIE'S Vintage 72 who has crafted the tasting menu. Herbie's Vintage 72 is at 405 North Euclid in the Central West End. For more information: experienceopera.org.

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Opera Tastings on Friday, March 27, at 7 p.m. "Join Opera Theatre of Saint Louis for the first year of a new interactive concert series, 'Opera Tastings.' It's a fun and delicious way to inspire Young Friends or other opera newcomers to discover opera for the first time. Enjoy music from across the history of opera in a one-hour concert, as each aria or duet is paired with samples of wine or small bites designed to highlight the qualities of the music. Selections include excerpts from Handel, Mozart, Puccini, and Verdi, among others. Singers include four of OTSL's past and upcoming artists, including Sydney Mancasola, soprano, Shirin Eskandani, Geoffrey Agpalo, and Erik Van Heyningen. Internationally celebrated conductor Ryan McAdams, a St. Louis native who returns to lead OTSL's season-opening production of 'The Barber of Seville,' emcees each evening, alongside the chef from Moulin, who has crafted the tasting menu. Moulin at at 2017 Chouteau, downtown. For more information: experienceopera.org.

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Opera Tastings on Saturday, March 28, at 7 p.m. "Join Opera Theatre of Saint Louis for the first year of a new interactive concert series, 'Opera Tastings.' It's a fun and delicious way to inspire Young Friends or other opera newcomers to discover opera for the first time. Enjoy music from across the history of opera in a one-hour concert, as each aria or duet is paired with samples of wine or small bites designed to highlight the qualities of the music. Selections include excerpts from Handel, Mozart, Puccini, and Verdi, among others. Singers include four of OTSL's past and upcoming artists, including Sydney Mancasola, soprano, Shirin Eskandani, Geoffrey Agpalo, and Erik Van Heyningen. Internationally celebrated conductor Ryan McAdams, a St. Louis native who returns to lead OTSL's season-opening production of 'The Barber of Seville,' emcees each evening, alongside the chef from The Dark Room, who has crafted the tasting menu. The Dark Room in at 615 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: experienceopera.org.

Marlon Brando in The Godfather

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra presents screenings of the classic movie The Godfather with the score performed live by the orchestra Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m., March 27-29. "The blockbuster crime saga The Godfather is a touchstone of cinema. It is one of the most widely imitated, quoted, and lampooned movies of all time. Enjoy Nino Rota's beloved score performed live by the STL Symphony with Francis Ford Coppola's Academy Award®-winning full-length masterpiece shown from the Powell Hall stage. It's an offer you cannot refuse!" The performances take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents soprano Angela Moore and pianist Jon Garrett on Friday, March 27, at 6 p.m. "Soprano Angela Moore performs December Songs (a song cycle by Maury Yeston based on Die Winterreise by Schubert) and some favorites from the musical theatre repertoire." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents guitarist W. Mark Akin on Friday, March 27, at 8 p.m. "W. Mark Akin makes his solo guitar debut at Tavern of Fine Arts with a program of outstanding classical guitar repertoire including works by Assad, Bach, Bellinati, Jose, and Rodrigo." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of February 23, 2015

The Bach Society at Powell Hall

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The Bach Society of St. Louis presents Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, March 1, at 3 PM.  “Few choral works even come close to the profound impact that Handel’s Messiah has had on audiences for over 250 years. This dramatic work offers an inspiring meditation on the life of the Messiah, from the prophecy of His birth through His death and resurrection, and culminating in man’s redemption and thanksgiving. The Chorus and Orchestra are joined by four outstanding Baroque soloists. Bach Society favorites mezzo-soprano Patricia Thompson and bass Curtis Streetman will return, while introducing two new performers to our audience: tenor Steven Soph and soprano Nathalie Colas from Strasbourg, France.”  The concert takes place at Firsts Prebyterian Church of Kirkwood, 100 East Adams.  For more information: www.bachsociety.org

The Ethical Society presents a Great Artist Guitar Series concert with Martha Masters on Saturday, February 28, at 8 p.m.  "In October of 2000 Martha Masters won First Prize in the GFA International Solo Competition, a recording contract with Naxos, a concert video with Mel Bay, and an extensive North American concert tour. In November of 2000, she also won the Andres Segovia International Guitar Competition in Linares, Spain. She has been a prizewinner or finalist in many other international competitions.
In addition to being on the guitar faculty of California State University Fullerton and Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, Masters is also the President of the Guitar Foundation of America (GFA), dedicated to supporting the instrument, its players and its music in the US and throughout the world." The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road.  For more information: ethicalstl.org.

The Sheldon Concert Hall presents Sheldon Classics: Asia on Wednesday, February 25, at 8 PM. “Asia is a large and diverse continent, and many classical composers have been influenced by its music, including Claude Debussy, Florent Schmitt and Dmitry Kabelevsky. We’ll hear their beautiful and imaginative works, as well as music by 20th century composer Toru Takemitsu, and top composers of today – Bright Sheng and Tan Dun.” The Sheldon is at 3648 Washington in Grand Center.  For more information: thesheldon.org.

Hans Graf
cmartists.com / Bruce Bennett

Hans Graf conducts the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra with violin soloist Augustin Hadelich on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m., February 27-March 1.  "Following his outstanding 2013 performances of the Paganini with the STL Symphony, violinist Augustin Hadelich is back to perform Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, a tour-de-force that will dazzle with its sizzling technical displays and tender melodies.  Hans Graf leads Stravinsky’s radiant Firebird Suite, known for its brilliant and colorful orchestration, bringing this concert to a spectacular conclusion."  The concerts take place at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center.  For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a chamber music concert by the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra on Tuesday, February 24, at 7:30 p.m.  The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood.   For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents Passione ed Armonia: Baroque String Band on Saturday, February 28, at 4:30 p.m.  " The Baroque string band “Passione ed Armonia” plays a program of Italian music for strings by Vivaldi, Monteverdi, Marini, Uccellini, Bertali and others." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood.   For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of February 9, 2014

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Eliot Unitarian Chapel presents a Friends of Music concert on Sunday, February 15, at 3 PM. "The program will feature: Baroque music by Georg Philipp Telemann, Joseph Bodin de Boismortier, Heinrich Biber and Marco Uccellini played on Baroque instruments by Lorraine Glass-Harris and Darrel Berg, violins; James Harris, flute; and Alan Rosenkoetter, guitar. Songs from Broadway musicals and other show tunes performed by Madeline Black, soprano, and Patti Brumleve, piano." Eliot Unitarian Chapel is at 100 South Argonne in Kirkwood. For more information: fomcstl.org

Amy Camie

The Ethical Society presents a Faces of Love Concert: Celebration of the Divine Feminine on Saturday, February 14, at 8 p.m. "The 18th Annual Faces Of Love Concert features diverse and extraordinary female musicians and singers whose performances are both spiritual and contemporary arousing our deepest emotions and instincts. Aska Kaneko, an internationally known Japanese violinist/composer and member of the group Gaia Cuatro is teaming up with Jasnam Daya Singh (Weber Iago), a Brazilian pianist and composer as the featured artists. Joining them are Amy Camie, professional harpist and award winning recording artist and Ruth Latchison Nichols recognized as one of the leading Gospel singers in the region. All of these spectacular artists share a commitment to internal harmony and universal peace through the vehicle of music ranging from classical to jazz, new age to gospel and contemporary forms of sacred music." The performance takes at the Ethical Society of St. Louis, 9001 Clayton Road. For more information: ethicalstl.org.

The St. Louis Chamber Chorus presents Concert Four: Milhaud and Purcell on Sunday, February 15, at 3 p.m. “Quintessentialy French motets and chansons arranged by Darius Milhaud offer a striking contrast with the brooding, even searing, anthems of Henry Purcell, written for Westminster Abbey immediately prior to the ‘Glorious Revolution’ of 1688.” The concert takes place at Christ Church Cathedral, 1210 Locust. For more information: www.chamberchorus.org

Kevin McBeth

The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra presents Lift Every Voice: A Black History Month Celebration on Friday, February 13, at 7:30 PM. “This annual concert celebrates African-American cultures and traditions that have influenced the history of St. Louis, as well as cities around the world. Join conductor Kevin McBeth and the St. Louis Symphony IN UNISON chorus to commemorate influential leaders who helped shape history.” The concert takes place at Powell Hall, 718 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlsymphony.org.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a classical open stage night on Monday, February 9, from 7:30 – 9 PM. “Come by yourself or bring your quartet. Sight read through a Beethoven quartet or use this as an opportunity to put the finishing touches on that Hindemith Viola Sonata you have been working on. All ages and skill levels are welcome. We have a 6' grand piano and an accompanist.” The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents an evening of chamber music by Haydn, Kodály, and Shostakovich with St. Louis Symphony musicians Ann Fink (violin), Jennifer Yamamoto (violin), Eva Stern (viola), Davin Rubicz (cello), and Patti Wolf (piano) on Tuesday, February 10, at 8 p.m. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents a special Valentine's "Senses in Harmony" wine pairing recital with Rebecca Drury, soprano; Diana Umali, piano; Jon Garrett, tenor and piano; and Melissa Peterson, sopran on Saturday, February 14, at 8 p.m. "Classical, opera, art song, musical theatre...all lighthearted and fun. This program is guaranteed to bring smiles and laughter on "heart day." Songs and sets will be paired with like-minded wines perfect for the occasion. we'll have something for everyone - a "singles" date alternative, or girls' night out, and/or something for sweethearts - fun for all." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Washington University presents a senior piano recital by Jonathan Heaney on Friday, February 13, at 2 p.m. The program features music by Brahms. The performance takes place at the 560 Music Center, 560 Trinity in University City. For more information: news.wustl.edu.