Artist Spotlights

Jeff Kaliss - August 23, 2013

From Bach to bluegrass to “salongrass,” Chris Thile plays the mandolin as if there’s no tomorrow.

Georgia Rowe - August 14, 2013

Newly appointed as music director of the California Symphony, Donato Cabrera talks about building a rapport with the audience and musicians, what sparked his passion in music, and how his plans for the future will do the same for others. 

Jeff Kaliss - August 7, 2013

Young stride pianist Stephanie Trick visits SFJAZZ with a plethora of powerful and pleasurable pieces.

Georgia Rowe - July 24, 2013

International conductor phenom Xian Zhang readies a Merola production of her beloved Le nozze di Figaro.

Jeff Kaliss - July 13, 2013

Nicola Benedetti was recently voted Classical Brit of the Year, and at only 26, has become one of Scotland’s most wanted exports. But she’s not letting success turn her head.

Jeff Kaliss - July 2, 2013

Michael Feinstein, his marriage newly legitimized, talks about his big-band gig in San Francisco, where he’ll salute the Gershwin brothers in his inimitable style.

Niels Swinkels - June 11, 2013

Pianist Jonathan Biss, about to perform Schumann with the S.F. Symphony, champions him as a perpetually fascinating composer who elicits deep personal feelings.

Jeff Kaliss - June 6, 2013

Singer/composer Rufus Wainwright rides life’s challenges with a light heart and a commitment to reinvent himself regularly.

Georgia Rowe - May 23, 2013

Matthew Polenzani returns to S.F. Opera to sing the title role in Offenbach’s The Tales of Hoffmann. Here, he opens up about the challenges of Hoffmann, his approach to new roles — and what he has planned for future seasons.

Georgia Rowe - May 15, 2013

Lera Auerbach, preparing for a premiere with New Century Chamber Orchestra, discusses her need to pursue multiple artistic endeavors beyond mere composing.