A Young Woman's Journey: From Azerbaijan to Tel Aviv

Klaus Mäkelä, the upcoming music director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO), showcased his interpretative skills in a series of concerts featuring Dvořák’s Symphony No. 7 and Mahler’s Third Symphony. Mäkelä’s direction emphasized long, cohesive musical lines, particularly evident in the Dvořák performance. However, his rendition of Mahler's Third was more introspective, focusing on the orchestra's ensemble sound rather than momentum. Contralto Wiebke Lehmkuhl delivered an authoritative vocal performance, marking Mäkelä’s first appearance with singers at the CSO. Meanwhile, pianist Daniil Trifonov provided an engaging yet occasionally imperfect performance of Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 2. Trombonist Timothy Higgins shone during Mahler’s Third, suggesting he could be Mäkelä’s next hire for the orchestra. The program also included Pierre Boulez’s “Initiale,” highlighting the CSO brass section, though with mixed results. Upcoming events include expanded seasons from the CSO and related organizations, showcasing diverse classical and jazz offerings.

Neil Young's new song "Let's Roll Again," a sequel to his 2002 track "Let's Roll," now has an official music video. The song and video criticize Elon Musk and Donald Trump, featuring imagery like Cybertrucks with American flags and a "Heil Tesla" sign. Young performs pointed lyrics, accusing Musk and Trump of fascist tendencies and urging American automakers to produce environmentally friendly vehicles. He calls out China's lead in clean car production and challenges Ford, GM, and Chrysler to build something special that meets people's needs. Through rustic, rebellious visuals of everyday Americans, Young advocates for cleaner automotive innovation while delivering a strong political message.

Disney has released "The Place to Be," the debut single and music video from the upcoming Disney Channel Original Movie *ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires*. The film, premiering July 10 on Disney Channel and streaming on Disney+ the following day, features two rival monster groups, the Daywalkers and the Vampires. The soundtrack, available for pre-order, includes nine new songs and reprises of popular hits. Fans can also pre-order a limited edition vinyl album featuring franchise favorites. Additionally, the Descendants/ZOMBIES: Worlds Collide Tour will showcase music from both franchises across 43 North American arenas this summer. Previous *ZOMBIES* movies are currently available on Disney+.

The Homegrown Music Festival in Duluth, Minnesota, is nearing its conclusion for the 2025 season, with final performances set to take place. The Penny Peaches, a family band featuring sisters Hattie and Grace Peach, are among the acts performing at Wussow’s Concert Cafe. Known for their lyrical storytelling and harmonies, the band includes their father on drums and a family friend on guitar. This marks their second year participating in the festival, expressing gratitude for being part of the community event. Spirit of the Lake Community Arts hosts events during the festival, celebrating the collaborative spirit of Homegrown. Attendees and performers alike describe the festival as a joyful and unifying experience. For schedules and more information, links are provided.

"American Mariachi," a bilingual play with Latin influences, makes its regional premiere at the Omaha Community Playhouse. Directed by Alex Rodriguez, the play tells the story of Lucha, who defies social norms by forming an all-women mariachi band. Featuring live music from local Mariachi musicians, the production is accessible to all, regardless of Spanish language proficiency. Notably, it marks the first show at the Playhouse with an all-Latino cast, creative team, and playwright. Cast member Marina Rosado makes her stage debut in this performance, which explores universal themes of love, family, and tradition. The show runs from May 2 to June 1 at the Howard Drew Theater.