John von Rhein has been the classical music critic of The Chicago Tribune since 1977. During that time, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra has had three music directors and Lyric Opera of Chicago four general directors. Von Rhein has covered innumerable other shifts (seismic and otherwise) on the local cultural scene, as well. Before joining The Tribune, he reviewed classical music and dance for the Akron Beacon Journal. His hobby is collecting classical music on recordings.
The burgeoning career of Pablo Heras-Casado makes the young Spaniard one of Pierre Boulez's most successful conducting proteges. So it seems only fitting that a week of Chicago Symphony Orchestra programs honoring Boulez on his upcoming 90th birthday (the actual date is March 26 of next year)...
Featured pick
As the 90th birthday of Pierre Boulez in March 2015 draws nearer, there will be no shortage of musical tributes to the eminent modernist composer and conductor throughout the classical world.
Pick of the Week
VIENNA – The Chicago Symphony Orchestra saved the best for last.
VIENNA – Talk about culture shock.
VIENNA – The applause rose, crested, gathered new energy, much like the restless surges of the Alexander Scriabin symphony Riccardo Muti and his Chicago Symphony Orchestra had ridden to victory just seconds before.
Apollo Chorus: The ensemble launches its 143rd season with a free concert ranging from Handel and Schubert to Morten Lauridsen and the Beatles. 3 p.m. Sunday, St. John Cantius Church, 825 N. Carpenter St.; 312-427-5620, apollochorus.org