Best of Bay Area Classical Music in 2023: Highlights and Premieres

In the diverse landscape of Bay Area classical music, 2023 has been a year of remarkable performances, ranging from grand operas to the introduction of astonishing new compositions. Fans of the genre have been treated to an eclectic mix of kindling classics and groundbreaking new works, showcasing the talents of both local and internationally celebrated artists.

Joyce DiDonato: A Musical Journey through 'Eden'

Joyce DiDonato, the esteemed mezzo-soprano, captivated audiences with 'Eden', a semi-staged concert blending the themes of nature and environmental consciousness. Her collaboration with Il Pomo d’Oro, traversing pieces from the Baroque era to contemporary music, created a magical ambiance at Stanford Live and Cal Performances early in the year.

A Rare French Gem: Messiaen's 'Trois petites liturgies'

The San Francisco Symphony, under the baton of Michael Tilson Thomas, provided a rare treat with Olivier Messiaen's 'Trois petites liturgies de la Présence divine'. Performed in January, pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, ondes Martenot player Cynthia Millar, and the S.F. Symphony Chorus joined forces for a luminous rendition of this spiritual composition.

Verdi's 'Falstaff' Reimagined by Opera San Jose

Opera San Jose's February production of Verdi's 'Falstaff', led by José Maria Condemi, brought Shakespeare’s comedy to life with wit and vibrancy. The performance was marked by an energetic cast, including tenor Darren Drone, delivering a display of operatic excellence that confirmed the company's exceptional quality.

California Symphony's 'Stargazer' Shines Bright

May heralded the premiere of 'Stargazer', a new piece by composer-in-residence Viet Cuong. With Donato Cabrera conducting the California Symphony and pianist Sarah Cahill, the debut at Walnut Creek’s Lesher Center showcased innovation and the orchestra's commitment to modern works.

'Adriana Mater' and a Tribute to Kaija Saariaho

The unexpected passing of Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho was keenly felt. Nonetheless, the San Francisco Symphony's presentation of 'Adriana Mater' became a poignant homage. In June, the semi-staged opera, focusing on weighty themes and directed by Peter Sellars, proved to be a powerful and timely expression.

Busoni Through the Hands of Igor Levit

In a captivating summer residency with the San Francisco Symphony, pianist Igor Levit conquered the challenging Busoni Piano Concerto. An electrifying performance on June 25 captured the attention of classical music enthusiasts and showcased Levit's formidable talent.

West Edge Opera's Eclectic Summer Ensemble

The midsummer program by West Edge Opera delivered both classic and unexpected operatic delights under General Director Mark Streshinsky's guidance. Productions like 'The Coronation of Poppea' and the groundbreaking mariachi opera 'Cruzar la Cara de la Luna' reached new artistic heights, particularly the pairing of Stravinsky's 'The Nightingale' and Schoenberg's 'Expectation' in July.

Breaking Barriers: Women on the Podium

Lidiya Yankovskaya’s guest conductorship with Symphony San Jose in September symbolized the growing recognition of women conductors. Her program included pieces by Prokofiev, Wagner, and Lera Auerbach, heralding a new era of diversity in classical leadership.

Opera Echoes with 'Of Mice and Men'

Livermore Valley Opera captured audiences with Carlisle Floyd’s 'Of Mice and Men', creating a poignant staging of Steinbeck's tale at the Bankhead Theater in October. This production underscored the company’s strength in bringing narrative and musical emotion to the forefront.

The Unforgettable 'Omar' at San Francisco Opera

Among the season's various successes, San Francisco Opera's 'Omar' stood out. The November performances of this contemporary work, composed by Rhiannon Giddens and Michael Abels, told a true story through a stirring and captivating staging, highlighted by Jamez McCorkle's standout portrayal of the title character.

concert, opera, premiere