Reviews

The Cypress String Quartet “Call and Response” has come full circle, commissioning new works for long enough that is has come around to composer Jennifer Higdon for the second time.

A fascinating moment in the Ives String Quartet’s concert is the last movement of Lou Harrison’s Quartet Set Usul; a case-study in string literature monophony.

Alonzo King Lines Ballet throws itself an elegant, if late, 30th-anniversary celebration, with a work in collaboration with virtuoso Edgar Meyer central to the occasion.

Herbert Blomstedt draws mixed results and leaking energy from the S.F. Symphony, conducting Beethoven and Nielsen.

Consolation and beauty are offered to those mourning a loss, including SFCV founding editor Robert Commanday, in a spellbinding concert by the Marin Symphony and Orchestra.

Pinnacles of the variation genre receive sublime, spirited, deeply felt performances by Emanuel Ax.

Brilliant, rafter-raising performances highlight a recital by seven talented Adler Fellows from the S.F. Opera program.

Puccini’s Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi receive propulsive, emotionally engaging performances by Opera San José.

A young winner of an international guitar competition, Vladimir Gorbach, presents a nuanced, passionate performance of little-known works.

The story of noble Orpheus and virtuous Eurydice, the classic originating with Virgil in 30 BC, is given a current treatment by Pocket Opera that will shock you — in a delightful way.