May sees the classical music season drawing to its conclusion in Vancouver, with several grand finales still in the works. While some groups have already signed off, major projects like Vancouver Opera's latest production, La Bohème, remain on offer. This spring also saw high-profile cancellations, including Daniil Trifonov due to illness and Philippe Jaroussky due to visa issues, but the month still offers plenty to enjoy.
La Bohème
When: May 2, 7:30 p.m.; May 3, 2 p.m.
Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Tickets/info: vancouveropera.ca
Vancouver Opera anticipated considerable demand for Puccini's tale of love in the garrets of Paris, with five performances and a double cast of principals. The last two performances are in the first weekend of May, conducted by Jonathan Darlington.
Hayato Sumino ("Cateen"), piano
When: May 7, 8 p.m.
Where: Orpheum Theatre
Tickets/info: vanrecital.com
The Vancouver Recital Society takes a flutter on internet sensation Hayato Sumino, known as Cateen. This event will test whether a massive online reputation can attract a new live audience.
Ian Bostridge and Wenwen Du
When: May 14, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Vancouver Playhouse
Tickets/info: nebulaperformances.com
Celebrated tenor Ian Bostridge and pianist Wenwen Du present lieder by Hugo Wolf and Benjamin Britten in a one-night-only recital. The pair have delighted local audiences before, now presented by the Nebula Performances Society.
A Choral Fest!
When: May 14, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Christ Church Cathedral
Tickets/info: vancouverchamberchoir.com
The Vancouver Chamber Choir ends its season by hosting the fourth edition of a project bringing Canada's professional choirs to town. Calgary's Luminous Voices and Edmonton's Chronos Vocal Ensemble join for solo sets and a combined finale.
BMO Day of Music
When: May 16, from 10 a.m.
Where: In and around the Orpheum
The VSO's annual extravaganza presents ensembles and soloists starting in the morning, culminating in an Orpheum concert at 7:30 p.m. All events are free.
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
Hélène Grimaud & Alexander Shelley
Gershwin Piano Concerto in F Major, Ravel Daphnis et Chloé
When/Where: May 22 and 23, 7:30 p.m., Orpheum Theatre
Mahler's Third Symphony
When/Where: May 29 and 30, 7:30 p.m., Orpheum Theatre
Tickets/info: vancouversymphony.ca
