"Beethoven Explained"

May 9, 2013

An Article by Peter Alexander, Boulder Weekly Classical Music Writer

"Saless is particularly struck by the composer’s ability to manipulate his listeners’ emotions, recalling a story told by one of Beethoven’s students, Carl Czerny. Beethoven’s piano improvisations, in the salons and homes of his patrons, were “most brilliant and striking,” Czerny wrote. “He knew how to produce such an effect upon every hearer that many would break out into loud sobs.” But Beethoven often followed his most moving improvisations with raucous laughter, telling his listeners they were fools for allowing their feelings to be so easily controlled." Read more.

"The Boulder Chamber Orchestra: Contrasts and Artistry"

September 30, 2012

An Article by Robin McNeil, Opus Colorado Music Critic

"This performance was completely fresh in so many ways: the clarity and transparency in the way the BCO performed these classical period pieces was absolutely breathtaking. Their phrasing was meticulous, as were their attacks, which were quite stunning because there were no ill-defined entrances whatsoever. The entire orchestra seemed very excited to get the season underway after all of the rehearsals, and there was a marked vigorousness and uniformity of purpose in the way they played." Read more.

"Boulder Chamber Orchestra plans to mix things up"

September 16, 2012

An article by Kelly Dean Hansen, Camera Classical Music Writer

"When music director Bahman Saless considered the theme for the Boulder Chamber Orchestra's eighth season, he realized he wanted to do many diverse pieces that were difficult to put together in a semantic sense. He also realized he wanted to experiment with concerts that created interest through extreme contrast." Read more.