Performer: Susanna Mälkki

At the Metropolitan Opera, Innocence proves a gripping and perhaps divisive piece which feels real because it is a reflection of our reality, with no realistic hope of finding peace. 

Pierre Audi is remembered in words and music as the Festival d’Aix-en-Provence receives $1m – the richest prize in classical music – at Stockholm’s Konserthuset. 

Julia Perry and two Europeans exiled to America feature in Susanna Mälkki's London Symphony Orchestra programme, featuring Leila Josefowicz as soloist in Stravinsky's Violin Concerto. 

Exceptional singing enlivens a flawed production, which takes liberties with the tone and tenor of Beethoven's sole opera.

In addition to the New York premiere of Luca Francesconi’s Duende: The Dark Notes, the evening is marked by an intriguing coupling of Strauss' Metamorphosen and Ravel's La Valse. 

With a remarkably extensive season featuring a slew of major guests, and the cream of Japanese classical music talent, the TMSO has an uncanny ability to switch between musical styles on a dime. 

Cate Blanchett’s imperious performance has attracted praise and controversy. Yet in Germany, a woman chief conductor of Lydia Tár’s status seems distant.