Italian conductor Claudio Abbado, died this morning at the age of 80. He had been ill for several years, yet continued working until a couple of months ago. He was a greatly loved figure, with a big … [Read more...] about Great Italian conductor Claudio Abbado dies at 80
Claudio Abbado
Rosalind Plowright answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
Q&A When did you start singing? Age 12. I had always sung before but only found my true voice at this age. My father was a bass player and had been playing in the orchestra for a performance … [Read more...] about Rosalind Plowright answers the Gramilano Questionnaire… Singers’ Edition
Daniel Barenboim gets an early 70th birthday present in Berlin
On the eve of his 70th birthday, Daniel Barenboim has succeeded in launching a dream project: the creation of a music academy where young Arabs and Israelis will be able to train and study side by … [Read more...] about Daniel Barenboim gets an early 70th birthday present in Berlin
Thomas Quasthoff has announced his retirement due to health issues
German bass-baritone Thomas Quasthoff has announced he is ending his singing career after nearly 40 years due to health issues. In a statement he said, "My health no longer allows me to live up … [Read more...] about Thomas Quasthoff has announced his retirement due to health issues
Hélène Grimaud on her tiff with Claudio Abbado
Hélène Grimaud and conductor Claudio Abbado's falling out over the choice of cadenza is elaborated on by Grimaud, one of the top pianists in the world, in a lengthy profile this week in the New … [Read more...] about Hélène Grimaud on her tiff with Claudio Abbado
Gramophone Magazine’s Classical Music Awards 2011 – shortlists
Gramophone's shortlists are out for this year's awards. No real surprises, but then those Gramophone people have great taste! Here's a sample: Opera: Die Zauberflöte - René Jacobs; Akademie für … [Read more...] about Gramophone Magazine’s Classical Music Awards 2011 – shortlists