Lloyd Schwartz

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews the latest recording of Yugoslavian pianist Dubravka Tomsic. Tomsic launched her career in America as a teenager, was a student of Arthur Rubinstein, played with the New York Philharmonic, and made her debut at Carnegie Hall before returning to Yugoslavia. Last year she was rediscovered in America on a number of critically acclaimed compact discs. On July 10 she returns to America to open the Newport Festival.

The American composer was born in the 19th century, and has won nearly every major music award. At 93, he still lives in New York's Chelsea Hotel. Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews a new album of his symphonic and operatic works.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews the soprano's new recital album on Nonesuch. He says the album succeeds both because of its performances and program.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews a recording of the recent opera Valis, based on Philp K. Dick's novel of the same name. He says much of the music is haunting, but is often repetitive and sentimental. Yet it's still a beguiling piece of wizardry.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz recently attended the Boston Early Music Festival, which featured all-day programs of performances and workshops. He has this review.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews a new live recording of composer Bedrich Smetana's patriotic music, including his oft-performed "Ma Vlast."

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews a CD of Olaf Bar's performances of selections from Mozart's operatic oeuvre. Schwartz says Bar's lower range is limited, causing him to growl and bark. It's an affect that might work for a full production, but is distracting in a recital setting.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews reissues of the songwriting team's music, recorded in the early 20th century. Schwartz praises the performers' precise renditions of these classic compositions.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz says that some composers elevate film scores, including Bernard Hermann, who wrote the music for several Alfred Hitchcock movies. A new collection of those compositions is now out on CD.

The contemporary composer, known for his difficult and ironic music, has as new album of tone poems, narrative orchestral music, and works for a children's choir. Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz has this review.