H+H Blog

A Message from Harry Christophers

A Message from Harry Christophers

January 24, 2019
Most composers throughout history have written primarily on commission, or at least with specific ensembles and occasions in mind for the first performances of new pieces. This guarantees that their pieces will be played, and usually ensures that the composer will be paid for them. Orchestras and[...]
On Commission

On Commission

December 26, 2017
Most composers throughout history have written primarily on commission, or at least with specific ensembles and occasions in mind for the first performances of new pieces. This guarantees that their pieces will be played, and usually ensures that the composer will be paid for them. Orchestras and[...]
All That’s Old is New Again (Part 3 of 3)

All That’s Old is New Again (Part 3 of 3)

October 23, 2017
H+H uses period instruments to create an historically-informed presentation of Baroque and Classical music—as close as possible to the composer’s original intent. Interestingly, not all the instruments are available as working antiques. Sometimes we make new instruments to function and sound like th[...]
All That’s Old is New Again (Part 2 of 3)

All That’s Old is New Again (Part 2 of 3)

September 22, 2017
H+H uses period instruments to create an historically-informed presentation of Baroque and Classical music—as close as possible to the composer’s original intent. Interestingly, not all the instruments are available as working antiques. Sometimes we make new instruments to function and sound like th[...]
All That’s Old is New Again (Part 1 of 3)

All That’s Old is New Again (Part 1 of 3)

August 23, 2017
Interestingly, not all the instruments are available as working antiques. Sometimes we make new instruments to function and sound like the originals. Learn about the reproduction of the Basset Horn.[...]
Amadeus: Fact or Fiction?

Amadeus: Fact or Fiction?

July 13, 2017
We are excited to share with you our upcoming performances of “Amadeus” Live, in November. As with so many legendary historical figures, the life of Mozart has generated a wealth of legacies and myths. Here are some of our favorites – what do you think: fact or fiction?[...]
Jealousy, Love, Madness: A Synopsis of Handel's Saul

Jealousy, Love, Madness: A Synopsis of Handel's Saul

April 26, 2016
When Handel wrote Saul in 1738, he could have expected their entire audience to be familiar with the story, taken from the First Book of Samuel. For today's audience, here's a plot synopsis of the dramatic oratorio.[...]
Five Questions for Eric Hoeprich

Five Questions for Eric Hoeprich

March 29, 2016
On April 8 and 10, H+H principal clarinetist Eric Hoeprich performs in Mozart and Beethoven: an intimate chamber program featuring Beethoven's Septet and an arrangement of Mozart's Violin Sonata in B-flat for clarinet and string trio. We spoke with him about the classical clarinet.[...]
Bach's <em>St. John Passion</em> from Leipzig Church to Symphony Hall

Bach's St. John Passion from Leipzig Church to Symphony Hall

March 10, 2016
Three extraordinary musicologists: Ellen Exner, Robin Leaver, and Christoph Wolff, offer insights into Bach's St. John Passion.[...]
Q+A with Fortepianist Robert Levin

Q+A with Fortepianist Robert Levin

February 24, 2016
Acclaimed fortepianist Robert Levin will perform Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 4 with H+H on February 26 and 28. He discusses his career, the evolution of the piano in Beethoven's day, and the risk of improvisation.[...]
Q+A with Concertmaster Aisslinn Nosky

Q+A with Concertmaster Aisslinn Nosky

January 19, 2016
Ahead of her solo appearance with H+H, concertmaster Aisslinn Nosky discusses her love of Haydn and the history of his Violin Concerto in A Major, which was lost until its rediscovery at an abbey in Austria.[...]
The Big Picture: Haydn the Symphonist

The Big Picture: Haydn the Symphonist

January 14, 2016
Haydn lived a long life, wrote 106 symphonies, and practically defined the Classical style. But how did two of his symphonies come to be written, and how do his early and late works differ?[...]
Historical Note: The Handel and Haydn Society at 200

Historical Note: The Handel and Haydn Society at 200

December 22, 2015
Musicologist Teresa Neff discusses H+H's 1815 inaugural concert on the 200th anniversary of that historic performance.[...]