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Soundcheck

Friday, September 01, 2006
  • The operatic boy band Il Divo
    The operatic boy band Il Divo

    Why Classical Crossover Thrives

    Classical crossover is a musical category that includes orchestras playing rock hits, violinists in wet t-shirts, and tenor heartthrobs crooning love ballads. It also includes plenty of music with a real artistic edge. Today, we explore this booming genre with Steven Mercurio, the conductor and composer whose new CD "Many Voices," features crossover singers like Andrea Bocelli and Sumi Jo, and with Greg Sandow, a composer, critic and orchestra consultant. Also on the show: tenor saxophonist Chris Byars shares music from his new album, "Night Owls." His octet will be performing at Joe's Pub this weekend.

Crossover Take-Over

A look at the state of crossover, a thriving genre that dominates classical recording charts and concert venues. Joining us is critic and consultant Greg Sandow and composer/conductor Steven Mercurio.
» Greg Sandow's blog
» Steven Mercurio's Web site
» Classical Crossover: A Timeline

Chris Byars

Tenor saxophonist Chris Byars and his octet perform live in the new album. The Octet includes: Chris Byars (tenor saxophone); Dan Block (alto saxophone); Frank Basilli (baritone saxophone); Richie Vitale (trumpet); Jeff Bush (trombone); Sacha Perry (piano); Neal Miner (bass); Andy Watson (drums); Shawn Clark (vocal).

Best Live Performances of 2008

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We revisit memorable in-studio performances from Toumani Diabaté, Cat Power, Regina Spektor, and others.

The Year in Music and Branding

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Pop music and advertising go together like peanut butter and jelly. Grey Group music director Josh Rabinowitz shares his picks for the best song picks and ad campaigns of 2008.

Critics Week

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Music writers look back at the year's best pop, rock, hip hop, classical, jazz, Latin and world albums. Plus: the worst music of the year and the best online music. Read our critics' lists here. And don't forget to cast your vote in our best-albums poll.

Noteworthy New York

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We have invited musicians and artists to help us select their favorite cultural destination in the neighborhood where they live. From parks and coffee shops to bowling alleys and museums, the options are as diverse as our group of contributors.