BBCSO/Slatkin

Each of the two concerts in the BBC Symphony Orchestra’s survey of Leonard Bernstein’s symphonies was meant to include a new work by a British composer. That plan foundered when Steve Martland failed to complete his Percussion Concerto in time … Continue reading →

Carmen

Royal Albert Hall, London

Soul singer

A dockworker's son from Jamaica, he sang gospel in America's deep south, studied music in New York then become a major opera star and made his debut as an actor. Nicholas Wroe reports on the uncompromising bass-baritone known for his passionate performances

A Masked Ball

Maybe not all those who came to boo stayed on to cheer. But after all the media hysteria about the excesses of English National Opera’s new production of A Masked Ball, the reality of the opening performance last night was … Continue reading →