Trumpeter Charles Lazarus has been performing with the Minnesota Orchestra for nearly two decades. In that time, he has sought to bring as many musical styles as possible to his performances, including fresh renditions of holiday classics in his annual big band extravaganza, 'Merry and Bright.'
Listen Sunday as Classical MPR presents the Minnesota Orchestra and Chorale performing J.S. Bach's 'Christmas Oratorio.' This holiday spectacular begins at noon with a special encore broadcast of Cantata Nos. 1, 2 and 3 from 2017, followed at 2 p.m. by a live broadcast of Cantata Nos. 4, 5 and 6. Conductor Nicholas Kraemer shares his insights on the work.
Volunteers have been playing the bells above City Hall in Minneapolis for more than a century. From New Year's Eve concerts to a special tribute for Prince, performing on these historic bells presents unique opportunities and challenges.
This weekend, principal cellist Anthony Ross will perform Shostakovich's Second Cello Concerto with the Minnesota Orchestra for the first time publicly. Hear it live at 8 p.m. Friday on Classical MPR.
In recent years, the musicians of the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra have tackled many new challenges. To recognize their efforts, the orchestra will hold a Musician Appreciation Concert on Thursday night, featuring the orchestra's artistic director and principal violin, Kyu-Young Kim.
Eric Simonson has directed many productions for Minnesota Opera, but 'Silent Night' stands out. Now, the Pulitzer Prize-winning opera set during World War I is back for a revival that runs Nov. 10-18, and he says this version is better than ever. Check out our gallery of photos and audio from the stars.
The University of Minnesota marshaled its musical forces Sunday for Lest We Forget, a concert to commemorate the centenary of the end of World War I. Listen now to the concert, including the U.S. premiere of 'The Great War Symphony.'
The Together in Hope Project seeks to bridge the divide between Lutherans and Catholics through the power of music. Having caught the eye of the Vatican, a group of Minnesotans recently traveled to Italy for a historic concert.
Twin Cities women's vocal ensemble Lumina performs music for people in need. Its new recording,'Light in the Darkness,' is being made free to those in hospice care and for hospice patients' friends and families.
The University of Minnesota Singers will perform 'The Call' this Sunday, Oct. 28, a new, cross-genre collaboration from English countertenor Ryland Angel and veteran Wilco guitarist Nels Cline inspired by the spirit of community and cooperation. The concert, held at Ted Mann Concert Hall, will be free and open to the public.
