Classical Music
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In addition to Boston Symphony Hall (301 Massachusetts Ave., 617/266-1492, www.bso.org), Boston has many excellent smaller halls that regularly offer classical concerts. These include: New England Conservatory’s acoustically refined Jordan Hall (30 Gainsborough St., 617/585-1260, www.newenglandconservatory.edu/concerts); Boston University’s Tsai Performance Center (685 Commonwealth Ave., 617/353-8725, www.bu.edu/tsai); and Harvard’s intimate Sanders Theatre (45 Quincy Sts., Cambridge, 617/496-2222, www.fas.harvard.edu/tickets).
Boston Symphony Orchestra
Since its founding in 1881, the Boston Symphony Orchestra (888/266-1200, www.bso.org) has been one of the country’s premier classical orchestras. In 2006, classical aficionados were clapping vigorously (their version of cheering) when modern legend James Levine ascended to the BSO’s podium as conductor of both Boston’s orchestra and the New York Metropolitan Opera.
Boston Pops
From the very beginning of its existence, the BSO has interspersed classical music with lighter fare. In 1900, the latter became the specialty of Boston Pops, which reached national prominence under the baton of march-master Arthur Fiedler in the 1970s and further acclaim with movie-theme composer John Williams.
The current manifestation of the Pops is under the direction of the boyishly exuberant Keith Lockhart, whose lineups might feature show tunes, movie themes, or vocal pop music. The orchestra performs in Symphony Hall in May and June, and then stages free outdoor concerts through July.
Handel and Haydn Society
Dedicated to the performances of choral works from the 19th century and earlier, Handel and Haydn Society (617/262-1815, www.handelandhaydn.org) regularly performs at Symphony Hall, Jordan Hall, and the Sanders Theatre. The highlight of the year is its Christmastime performances of Messiah, a Boston tradition.
Boston Lyric Opera
In addition to classics by Rossini, Mozart, and other masters, the Boston Lyric Opera (617/542-6772, www.blo.org) regularly stages modern works, such as a recent opera based on the children’s book The Little Prince. Performances take place at the Shubert Theatre.
Chamber Music
The eight-person Boston Chamber Music Society (617/779-0900, www.bostonchambermusic.org) performs classics by Mozart, Beethoven, and other composers. The Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra (617/661-7067, www.proarte.org) is a co-op orchestra that presents relatively more daring fare.
Church Concerts
A little-known choral gem, Emmanuel Music (15 Newbury St., 617/536-3356, www.emmanuelmusic.org) performs entire Bach masses on Sundays at Emmanuel Church.
Trinity Boston (206 Clarendon St., 617/536-0944, www.trinitychurchboston.org) performs half-hour recitals on Fridays at noon, as well as occasional choral concerts in one of the most beautiful settings in Boston—Copley Square’s Trinity Church.
© Michael Blanding and Alexandra Hall from Moon New England, 2nd Edition
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