Domingo’s 137th operatic role!

If you’d prefer to listen to a much-loved classic rather than try and get your mind around a new work, think again. It may well be worth the effort of listening to something new. Scientists at Rotman Research Institute, in Toronto, found that the brain’s reward centre showed increased activity when participants heard a new piece of music. Read…

Get to know the major benefactor behind Opera on Sydney Harbour, Dr Haruhisa Handa: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/opera/behind-every-good-opera-theres-a-very-generous-patron-20120323-1vpbb.html   Pushing the boundaries with the upcoming ACO Underground concert on April 1st: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/underground-lovers-20120322-1vkuv.html   Selby and Friends “A Ghost at the Cafe” reviewed: http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/music/trio-harness-power-of-understatement-20120323-1vp0w.html   John Shand reviews the latest release form Jordi Savall and his ensemble, featuring his wife…

The Guardian reported last month that two original works by Gustav Holst have been discovered in the library of New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty Symphonia. Written in 1906, Folk Songs from Somerset and Two Songs Without Words were authenticated by matching the handwriting, address and signature of Holst with internet sources. The discovery was verified by…