As a recent hire at U-M, this was my second Messiah. There is great variety in the performances from year to year, depending on the soloists. The countertenor was a real treat–and a U-M alum! I was moved to tears. A perfect beginning to the Christmas season.

I was so impressed by the remarkable tone of the first oboist and first flutist in the Brahms 2nd.

A new professor in music theory at U-M. I was also lucky enough to hear Bernstein conduct the Vienna Philharmonic (in 1984, in Vienna) when he conducted Mahler’s 4th. There are some advantages to being “a certain age.”

One of the most remarkable piano recitals I’ve heard in over 50 years. I haven’t been so moved since my last Horowitz recital in 1980, which says a lot. And her quirky transcription of The Sorcerer’s Apprentice reminded me of Horowitz as well (and her infinite range of tone color). At the same time, her technique is the most natural I have seen of ANY pianist. This was my first concert in Michigan, and I couldn’t believe the number of cell phones. We clap between movements in California, but at least we manage to turn our cell phones off.