Arts & Culture

Few classical musicians these days are serious improvisers — aside from organists and early-music practitioners. But pianist Gabriela Montero is absolutely fearless when it comes to creating a new piece, right out of the air, right on the spot. At her concerts she takes requests from audience members. They can suggest a song for her to improvise on, or simply a topic of interest.

If ever the term ‘opposites attract’ were applied to an opera, it should applied to Jules Massenet’s Thais. Two of the unlikeliest of characters will carry on an extended, obsessive and sublimated non-affair affair. It will inspire some of the composer’s most popular music, the Meditation for violin and orchestra, though the work as a whole has never quite become part of the repertory. It falls between two of his most well known works Werther and Cendrillion.

It's only November, but Fiesta is already kicking off. On Thursday, leaders with the Fiesta Commission unveiled the official 2013 Fiesta poster by artist Stuart Seal.

Seal's work, "Bridging the Traditions and Cultures of Fiesta," will represent the celebration and marks the start of the season to Fiesta.

"The poster represents our heritage signified by the Rose Window of Mission San Jose which frames Fiesta," said Seal.

The water color, colored-pencil work is reflective of the spark, energy and icons of San Antonio, said Seal.

Richard Stoltzman is a legendary musician, winning Grammy Awards, playing chamber music, new music and concerti around the world. He's also famous for his jazz, playing with greats like Woody Herman, Mel Torme, and Chick Corea. This weekend, Stoltzman will share his artistry with the Youth Orchestras of San Antonio Philharmonic.