Thomas Ades

"The best thing about the Grammys is that we’re all together," Toyin Spellman-Diaz, oboist in Imani Winds, said while accepting an award. Her pronouncement rings true in light of the breadth of classical artists in this year's winners circle.

Recorded by the Los Angeles Philharmonic (with Gustavo Dudamel at the helm), Thomas Adès' 'Dante' is a relentlessly fascinating ballet. Bruce Hodges gives it a close listen in our Album of the Week review.

Thomas Adès' Concerto for Piano and Orchestra riffs on the old classics while speaking in the distinctive voice of a 21st century master composer.

"Classical music is many things," says violist Asbjørn Nørgaard. "It can sound like Coldplay. It can sound like heavy metal." The quartet's new album, out now, is called Adès/Nørgard/Abrahamsen.