Lloyd Schwartz

Director Peter Sellars helmed a modernized production of Mozart's iconic opera at this year's Pepsico Summerfare. Classical music critic Lloyd Schwarz saw the performance in Purchase, NY. He says not all of the updates worked, but the individual performances reached the audience "on a profoundly emotional level."

Pianist Shura Cherkassky claims he never plays the same piece twice. Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz says the versions of Liszt and Stravinsky pieces Cherkassky recently committed to tape are worth the listen.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz says that Christopher Hogwood's interpretation of the composer's symphonies fall flat compared to those of Roger Norrington.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz says that John Gibbons' new record of Bach's music showcases the performer's mastery of the harpsichord.

Two new CDs from the CBS Masterworks series showcase conductor Pierre Boulez's interpretations of classic works by the 20th century composers. Critic Lloyd Schwartz recommends them both.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews a new recording of Arnold Schoenberg's piano and violin concertos, both conducted by Pierre Boulez. Schwartz says listening to this music at home may be the best way for audiences to get accustomed to atonality.

Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz recommends a CD reissue of a 1971 performance of the celebrated opera.

Composer John Harbison recently won the Pulitzer Prizer. Classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz reviews a new CD featuring songs inspired by the poet Mirabai.

Soprano Benita Valente isn't as visible as some of her peers, in part because she hasn't recorded as much as other opera stars. Lloyd Schwartz hopes a new album of lieder will raise Valente's profile.

Artur Schnabel is often considered an intellectual musician, but critic Lloyd Schwartz believes the pianist's skill lies in his emotional sensitivity. The Arabesque label has recently reissued a number of Schnabel's recordings on CD, including a collection of Beethoven concertos.