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Classical Californians: Nicholas McGegan
Conductor Nicholas McGegan is this week's Classical Californian
A Temple of Glory… with a Message for a King
"Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale release a modern performance of Rameau and Voltaire's opera, Le Temple de la Gloire. The opera, ordered by King Louis XV, subtly critiques the king's lifestyle."
A New Music Director for Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale
Richard Egarr is set to become the Music Director of Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale in 2020/21, succeeding Nicholas McGegan. Egarr plans to explore new repertoire areas and enhance audience interaction.
Nicholas McGegan to Retire from Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra
World-renowned conductor Nicholas McGegan retires after 35 years with the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chorale, transitioning to Music Director Laureate.
Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra Loses East Bay Home
Berkeley's First Congregational Church, a 91-year-old icon and Philharmonia Baroque's venue, suffered a severe fire causing roof collapse. The orchestra seeks new performance sites.
Beethoven’s Quartet of ‘Thanksgiving’
Beethoven's String Quartet in A Minor, Op. 132, features a movement expressing gratitude for recovery from illness. It alternates between prayerful chorales and lively sections, reflecting his mortality.
The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet
Explore the history of Appalachian Spring, a ballet commissioned by Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge, composed by Aaron Copland, and choreographed by Martha Graham.
The Mystery Behind Scriabin’s Mystic Chord
Explore the life of Russian composer Alexander Scriabin, his obsession with the occult, and his creation of the "mystic chord" used in his compositions.
Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”
Explore the intriguing history of Edward Elgar's Enigma Variations, composed in 1898-99. Discover how this piece, inspired by Elgar's friends and personal experiences, established his fame.
Something Old, Something New
Alan Chapman shares the best of baroque to modern music.
A Playlist to Celebrate All Things Fall
Explore the beauty of autumn through music with this curated list of compositions inspired by the season's warm colors, chilly weather, and melancholic mood.
