Young Jonathan Biss played a Mozart/Schumann recital, and my TOC blog take can be found here. He's always been poised when I've heard him, but he seems to be getting more intuitive and not letting his technique be front and center. He's no Lang Lang, yet that remarkable control often blunted the music's impact previously. But his dynamic range is widening and, say, the nostalgic waltz in the A minor Rondo, K. 511, had a pleasantly unforced air.
Alex Ross has weighed in on Barenboim's final concerts, and gives the Chicago Symphony Orchestra great kudos and notes Barenboim's gracious exit, while upbraiding Barenboim for his shortsightedness in contemporary music.
CSO bassist Mark Kraemer writes a letter to the Tribune clarifying that business about Barenboim being named Honorary Conductor for Life by the musicians. And he's not happy.
And Jessica Duchen has some thoughts on the downfall of Warner Classics.