We celebrate Mardi Gras this week with Gal Costa and Bossa Nova and a sampling of others sure to please.

Among other things, a review of Mozart’s Magic Flute with all its Masonic symbolism, as timely today as it when premiered 200 years ago.

Songs of Spring and the cautious approach of Summer’s tender child, June.

A sampling of new and old from Paul Simon, and a musical appreciation of the Indian mystic Rabindranath Tagore.

A selection of song with an explanation of how, when and why women were pushed out of music.

A further look into the black American musicians who fled Jim Crow for Europe, and the magnificent music they made.

A survey of likely candidates for Best Original Score in this year’s Oscar nominations.

Music for all ages, not least of which, infants, toddlers and those still in the oven. 

Music and commentary meant to bring about vibrant health and high happiness with year-end wishes from Leonard Cohen.

A look at the Solstice through the eons and a selection of songs to bring the sun back to life.

Music various and sundry for the waning light of November fading into December.