Let's face it, most people don't think of Mexico when they think of classical music. And neither do they envision noteworthy Mexican conductors making headway on the classical scene.
Mi Alma Mexicana (My Mexican Soul)
Alondra de la Parra
Philharmonic Orchestra of the Americas
Sony Classical
3 1/2 stars
The community orchestra is the hyperlocal world of the amateur musician. Almost every city has one, and the Sacramento region boasts three: the Camellia, Auburn and Folsom Lake symphonies.
Community orchestras like the Camellia Symphony, the Auburn Symphony and the Folsom Lake Symphony have hung on during the economic downturn, thanks to their already-lean budgets, community support and the loyalty of their mostly unpaid musicians.
Camellia Symphony
A slate of 2009-10 productions of the San Francisco Opera will be broadcast nationally on the radio, including 21 radio stations statewide.
At long last, "Songs With Orchestra," the San Francisco Symphony's Mahler recording cycle of songs and symphonies, is complete.
In mixing two strands of musical DNA – Mexico's Norteño music and techno – the Nortec Collective has made a name for itself by creating a whole new sound.
The Nortec Collective – led by DJs Fussible, left, and Bostich – blends elements of Norteño music and techno.