Jim Farber

Los Angeles Philharmonic regulars and visitors might be unaware of it, but the best of L.A.’s adventurous contemporary arts scene is happening right beneath their feet.

Long Beach Opera’s politicized version of Astor Piazzolla’s surreal “tango operita,” Maria de Buenos Aires treads a fine line.

In the top ranks of violinists, he continues to find Bach greatly pleasurable. But he has someone else teach the instrument to his children.

L.A. Philharmonic’s president and CEO speaks about grappling with change, securing loyal audiences, and serving the community.

Stardom has come fast for young Yuja Wang, who is learning how to pace herself and seeking a mentor.

The last time Dawn Upshaw appeared at the Ojai Music Festival was in June of 2006. Five years later, and now a cancer survivor, the renowned soprano will reprise her performance there. Here, she talks with SFCV about what makes the Festival unique, teaching at Bard college, and an exciting new collaboration with Peter Sellars.

The violinist-turned-conductor tells of conducting for Karajan, being encouraged by Previn, and having a sports-minded family.

Dawn Upshaw and Peter Sellars are collaborating to produce a unique festival that will come to Berkeley, as well. Sellars and Artistic Director Thomas Morris give SFCV the skinny.

The young French artist is well on the rise, performing this week with the S.F. Symphony — and in June playing “live” to hundreds of American theaters with fellow hotshot Gustavo Dudamel.

The celebrated pianist essays an all-Schubert recital at three Bay Area venues, with his friend and colleague Jamie Laredo on violin.