Daniel J. Kushner

On the cusp of Black History Month, soprano Kathleen Battle and pianist Joel Martin will bring a timely program of traditional black spirituals, titled “Underground Railroad: A Spiritual Journey,” to Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre. Battle’s bell-like voice and exquisite technical precision have helped garner her five Grammy awards for her operatic endeavors. The concert’s […]

Following a first-rate production of Philip Glass’s “Hydrogen Jukebox,” Eastman Opera Theatre is back with a double bill of one-act verismo (realism) operas from the early 20th century. Giacomo Puccini’s “Suor Angelica” has long been a staple of the repertoire, while Umberto Giordano’s “Mese Mariano” is rarely performed. Given the two operas’ plot similarities —in […]

The young chamber ensemble Trio Cleonice from Boston has accomplished a lot since acting as New England Conservatory’s Graduate Piano Trio-in-Residence. Cellist Gwen Krosnick, pianist Emely Phelps, and violinist Ari Isaacman-Beck have performed at the Kennedy Center, Boston’s Jordan Hall, and the Concertgebouw in New Amsterdam, among numerous other venues. In the process, Trio Cleonice […]

Yarn/Wire isn’t your typical quartet of classical musicians. Comprised of pianists Laura Barger and Ning Yu and percussionists Ian Antonio and Russell Greenberg, the chamber ensemble — now in its 10th anniversary season — has been a leading proponent of new compositions by living artists. Yarn/Wire’s upcoming performance at Eastman School of Music, as part […]

Pianist Christopher O’Riley brings his popular NPR program From the Top back to Rochester’s Eastman Theatre on Sunday for what is sure to be a mesmerizing set of performances from prodigiously talented classical musicians ranging in age from 14 to 17. The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra will join the three featured soloists — pianist and Pittsford […]

Political relations between the United States and Russia may be complicated, but the enduring musical bond between the two countries is unequivocally vibrant. The bond extends to Rochester and its Sister City, Veliky Novgorod (composer Sergei Rachmaninoff was born nearby). In celebration of this connection, teachers and students from the Eastman Community Music School will […]

The William Warfield Scholarship Fund has long worked to encourage career advancement for African-American vocalists. Since 1977, the fund has helped voice students at Eastman School of Music pursue their craft with the support of additional financial aid. On Sunday, as an important annual fundraiser, the organization will present the concert “William Warfield: A Legacy […]