The classical music scene in 2023 showcased a plethora of remarkable albums, from premieres of Thomas Adès and Anna Thorvaldsdottir’s compositions to striking portraits of Missy Mazzoli and Kaija Saariaho.

Thomas Adès orchestrated ‘Dante’ with the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of conductor Gustavo Dudamel, released by Nonesuch. Adès demonstrated brilliance in crafting a vivid and impactful musical piece. The Los Angeles Philharmonic’s ambitious live performance, encompassing an hour and a half of music in a single evening, recorded for release by Nonesuch, deserves admiration and is a must-listen for aficionados. DAVID ALLEN hailed its significance.

In the interpretation of Bach’s ‘Goldberg’ Variations, Vikingur Olafsson stands out. He masterfully balances the distinctiveness of each section while maintaining a coherent narrative across the work’s 75-minute duration. His rendition not only achieves unity but also avoids monotony, delivering an emotionally captivating journey from the simplicity of the Aria to the exuberant Quodlibet and back, leaving a lingering sense of nostalgic sweetness. JOSHUA BARONE praised Olafsson’s interpretation.

‘Broken Branches,’ featuring Karim Sulayman’s enchanting vocals and Sean Shibe’s expressive guitar, presented an exceptional musical experience. The album comprises a thoughtful selection of songs that initiate dialogues spanning cultures and centuries. Through this eclectic blend, complex questions about identity, exoticism, and cultural exchange arise, crafting a beautifully immersive listening experience. JOSHUA BARONE hailed it as a standout in classical music for its uniqueness.

Stile Antico’s ‘The Golden Renaissance,’ released by Decca, pays tribute to William Byrd, marking 400 years since his passing. The record, featuring the Mass for Four Voices at its core, offers a profoundly moving musical journey. DAVID ALLEN particularly lauded the exquisitely tender “Agnus Dei,” expressing his inclination to listen to it repeatedly, reflecting its haunting beauty.

Christopher Cerrone’s opera, ‘In a Grove,’ based on the same narrative as the film ‘Rashomon,’ is an engrossing portrayal of truth and memory. The recording captures the essence of the narrative, magnifying its dramatic impact. Every word and note contributes significantly to the immersive storytelling, making it a richly textured production, commended by JOSHUA BARONE.

Michael Spyres’ ‘Contra-Tenor,’ accompanied by Il Pomo d’Oro and conducted by Francesco Corti (Erato), showcases Spyres’ astounding vocal prowess and showmanship. His remarkable three-octave range and charismatic performance through virtuoso arias from the Baroque and early Classical eras make for a mesmerizing 70-minute musical journey. OUSSAMA ZAHR praised Spyres’ singing and the effervescent playing by Il Pomo d’Oro, adding to the album’s allure.