MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS REVIEWS

 
By  William Jenkins, East Coast  Bureau Chief & Correspondent

Photo Credits: Boston Symphony Orchestra, Carnegie Hall

Published May 22, 2025, 2:30 p.m. ET

Defining the "best" classical performances across a season as rich and varied as 2024-2025 is a subjective yet engaging task. Excellence in classical music manifests in countless ways: the technical brilliance of a soloist, the nuanced interpretation of a conductor, the cohesive power of an ensemble, or the emotional resonance of a particular rendition. Rather than attempting a definitive ranking, this essay will explore some of the standout performances and trends that have characterized the classical music scene during this period, drawing from critical acclaim, notable events, and emerging artistic voices.
One significant aspect of the 2024-2025 season has been the celebration of anniversaries and the exploration of diverse repertoire. The classical music world continued to commemorate composers like Bruckner and Smetana, whose anniversaries in 2024 prompted numerous performances of their symphonic and orchestral works. Vladimir Jurowski's interpretation of Bruckner's Symphony No. 7 was particularly lauded for its insightful and persuasive approach. Similarly, in-depth explorations of Smetana's orchestral music, beyond the well-known "Má vlast," offered audiences a deeper appreciation for his compositional breadth.

The season also witnessed remarkable solo performances. Pianists such as Bruce Liu and Alexandre Kantorow continued to captivate audiences with their technical mastery and insightful interpretations. Liu's performances, including Scriabin's Piano Concerto with the Danish National Symphony Orchestra, showcased his dynamic range and expressive capabilities. Kantorow, known for his profound musicality, presented compelling recitals featuring works by Brahms and Schubert. Violinists like Vilde Frang were celebrated for their interpretations of core repertoire, such as Elgar's Violin Concerto, bringing fresh perspectives to established masterpieces.

Orchestral collaborations remained a cornerstone of the season. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Riccardo Muti, presented a diverse program including Brahms' Symphony No. 4 and Stravinsky's "The Fairy's Kiss," demonstrating their continued commitment to artistic excellence. The Toronto Symphony Orchestra was recognized as one of the busiest orchestras, highlighting the vibrant orchestral landscape of North America. Klaus Mäkelä's ascendance as a leading conductor was also notable, with a significant number of concert engagements showcasing his growing influence.
Beyond established orchestras and soloists, the 2024-2025 season highlighted innovative and contemporary voices. The London Symphony Orchestra's Soundhub Showcase featured world premieres by emerging composers, demonstrating a commitment to the future of classical music. Carnegie Hall's "Contemporary Classical / New Music Concerts" series provided a platform for groundbreaking works and collaborations across genres. Performances of living composers like John Williams and Arvo Pärt continued to be popular, reflecting the enduring relevance of contemporary classical music.

Opera also contributed significantly to the season's highlights. The Metropolitan Opera's production of Gounod's "Roméo et Juliette" was noted as a standout performance. Furthermore, the premiere of "Zarqa Al Yamama," the first Arabic-language grand opera staged in Saudi Arabia, marked a significant cultural milestone, showcasing the global reach and evolving landscape of operatic performance.
Chamber music continued to thrive, with ensembles like the Jerusalem String Quartet receiving acclaim for their nuanced interpretations. The Nash Ensemble's recordings of string sextets by Tchaikovsky and Korngold were also celebrated, highlighting the depth and intimacy of chamber music performance.

In terms of recordings, several albums released during the 2024 eligibility window garnered significant attention. Víkingur Ólafsson's interpretation of Bach's Goldberg Variations earned him a Grammy for Best Classical Instrumental Solo. Gabriela Ortiz's "Revolución Diamantina" was a multiple Grammy winner, recognized for its contemporary composition and overall classical compendium. These recordings represent the high caliber of musicianship and innovative programming that characterized the year in classical music.
Looking ahead, the remainder of 2025 promises further exciting performances and events. The London Symphony Orchestra's season includes diverse programs featuring soloists like Lisa Batiashvili and conductors such as Sir Antonio Pappano. The Czech Philharmonic, with Daniil Trifonov as Artist-in-Residence, will explore Dvořák's Piano Concerto across Europe and North America. Festivals and special events will continue to enrich the classical music calendar, offering unique and memorable experiences for audiences worldwide.

Thus, while pinpointing the "best" classical performances of 2024-2025 remains a personal journey, the season has undoubtedly offered a wealth of exceptional musical experiences. From celebrated interpretations of core repertoire to the emergence of new voices and innovative programming, the classical music world continues to evolve and inspire. The performances highlighted here, along with countless others, underscore the enduring power and transformative beauty of classical music in the contemporary world.