Story perspectives

Music Highlights: Passionate Performances and Innovative Staging

12/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

Lea Desandre's Songs of Passion showcases her as an early-music mezzo, with lutenist Thomas Dunford directing performances.
Victoria Kelly, Kiwi composer, premiered Stabat Mater on NZSO+ streaming, drawing praise despite balance issues in a live concert.
Daniel Müller-Schott's Schumann Cello Concerto with the Auckland Philharmonia highlighted intimate duets and emotional depth.
Philip Glass’s Les Enfants Terribles was staged at the Seville Opera Festival, noted for innovative staging and budget-friendly production.

History

Historical Context

The early music revival gained traction in the 1970s, driven by figures like conductor Nikolaus Harnoncourt and ensembles such as The Early Music Consort of London. This movement emphasized historically informed performance practices, utilizing original instruments and scholarly research. Today, artists like Lea Desandre continue this legacy, enhancing appreciation for historical compositions and influencing modern classical music interpretations.

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Story summary

Lea Desandre's Songs of Passion showcases her as an early-music mezzo, with lutenist Thomas Dunford directing performances.
Victoria Kelly, Kiwi composer, premiered Stabat Mater on NZSO+ streaming, drawing praise despite balance issues in a live concert.
Daniel Müller-Schott's Schumann Cello Concerto with the Auckland Philharmonia highlighted intimate duets and emotional depth.
Philip Glass’s Les Enfants Terribles was staged at the Seville Opera Festival, noted for innovative staging and budget-friendly production.

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