UNCSA Symphony Orchestra 2025-26 Review: Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 & Malek Jandali’s Symphony No. 5 (U.S. Premiere)

(Photo: Scott Jati Lindsay) University North Carolina School of the Arts concert was so thoroughly professional that one had to remind oneself that this was a conservatory orchestra. The program, brilliantly conducted by James Allbritten was both ambitious and stunning in its quality. The free program at the National Cathedral was one of the season’s high-points for me, offering the {…}

Apr 10, 2026

Florentine Opera Unveils 2026-27 Season

Florentine Opera announces its 2026-27 season. Soprano Kathryn Henry gives a solo concert. Performance Date: July 26, 2026 Baritone Zachary Nelson gives a solo recital. Performance Date: August 20, 2026 “An Aria Extravaganza” features the Baumgartner Studio Artists. Performance Date: September 15, 2026 Verdi’s “La Travitata” stars Amanda Woodbury, Dominick Valdés Chenes, Ethan Vincent, Zachary Taylor, Michael Segura, Danielle Casós, {…}

Feb 27, 2026

Claire Griffin to Headline University of North Carolina School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra’s Debut at Washington National Cathedral

The University of North Carolina School of the Arts Symphony Orchestra will make its Washington National Cathedral debut on April 14, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. The performance will feature Mahler’s Symphony No. 4, headlined by A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute soprano Claire Griffin. A North Carolina native from Brevard in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Griffin completed her Master of Music at {…}

Oct 23, 2025

Opera in Appalachia – How Brevard Music Center Brought Opera to the Mountains

(Photo credit: Chuck Gilmore) Southern Appalachia is typically acknowledged as the heart of traditional American folk music, from old-time string bands to bluegrass, and haunting ballads, but there are more connections to opera and classical singing than one might realize. Pioneers like Cecil Sharp, Maud Karpeles, and John Jacob Niles collected folk songs throughout southern Appalachia, such as “The Lover’s {…}

Aug 7, 2024

Janiec Opera Company of the Brevard Music Center Review 2024: The Threepenny Opera

The Brevard Music Center’s third and final opera production for the 2024 Summer Festival, Weill’s “The Threepenny Opera,” emphasized the company’s versatility and devotion to training top-notch young artists. A myriad of musical skill, dedication, and artistry was displayed by the members of the Janiec Opera Company in the three mainstage operas the team produced over the last month. While {…}