The SPCO

Conductor and harpsichordist Christopher Hogwood has died at the age of 73 following a prolonged illness.

When we engender, particularly among newcomers to the art form, the expectation that classical music be relaxing, what chance do Schulhoff, Shostakovich, and Messiaen stand? Or, for that matter, what chance do Haydn and Beethoven stand to really penetrate the listener's senses, when all she's after is some white noise while doing her taxes?

The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra announced this week the hiring of Julie Albers as its new principal cellist. Not long after arriving on a flight from Atlanta, Albers visits with Classical MPR's Alison Young. Get to know Albers and hear her thoughts about her new job.

The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra has named Julie Albers as its new principal cellist. Albers will officially begin her tenure in the 2015-16 season, but will join the SPCO on stage for eight weeks of the current season, including this weekend. MPR News Arts Reporter Marianne Combs has more.

When the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts unveils its sparkling new $75 million concert hall next spring, it will do so in elaborate and enduring style. In a month-long celebration that begins March 1, the Ordway will introduce the public to its intimate new venue for the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra. Euan Kerr has more.

A young violinist and budding environmental scientist. Grant Johnson is a passionate lover of classical music.

On today's Learning to Listen, three concertmasters talk about what it's like to lead an orchestra not from the podium, but from a chair just to the left of the conductor.

Professional birder Sharon Stiteler joins Learning to Listen to talk about birds in Minnesota, paired with music inspired by birds.

Colleen Meier is the co-founder of Twin Cities Fringe Opera. As the company prepares for its first production, Meier spoke with Steve Staruch.

The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra recently kicked off a celebration of British composer Benjamin Britten's centenary. This weekend, the SPCO will perform Britten's chamber opera, The Turn of the Screw.