A Triumphant Spring with Nic McGegan
Nic made a much-anticipated return to the Los Angeles Philharmonic this April at Walt Disney Concert Hall, conducting a radiant program that paired Vivaldi’s Four Seasons with Mozart Chaconne from Idomeneo and Haydn’s Symphony No. 94 (“The Surprise”).
Violinist Martin Chalifour, LA Phil’s concertmaster, brought exquisite precision and sparkle to Vivaldi’s iconic score, while Nic’s conducting drew out both the grandeur and wit of the Baroque and Classical symphonic works. With his deep affinity for this repertoire and a touch that’s equal parts scholarly and joyful, Nic once again captivated West Coast audiences.
A Joyous New Recording: Bach’s Easter Oratorio & Magnificat
April also brought the release of Nic’s latest album with Cantata Collective, continuing their ambitious Bach choral cycle with AVIE Records. This recording pairs two of Bach’s most festive sacred works: the Easter Oratorio, a vivid musical portrayal of the Resurrection morning, and the Magnificat, one of his most exuberant and dazzling vocal pieces.
Nic leads a top-tier ensemble and a star-studded vocal quartet featuring:
Nola Richardson, soprano
Aryeh Nussbaum Cohen, countertenor
Thomas Cooley, tenor
Harrison Hintzsche, bass
With historically informed performance practices and glowing artistry, this album captures the spiritual joy and compositional brilliance that define Bach’s sacred music.
"...McGegan and his forces are spot-on...and represent an accurate and elegant account..." – Early Music America
Behind the Baton
Nic has been sharing delightful glimpses into his musical world on Instagram. Here are three recent highlights.
Handel’s Messiah with the St. Louis Symphony
In this clip, Nic reflects on the joy of conducting Handel’s Messiah with the St. Louis Symphony, emphasizing the unique energy and spirit that each performance brings.
Hidden Gems: Handel’s L’Allegro
Nic shares his admiration for Handel’s L’Allegro, highlighting its grand orchestration and imaginative spirit, and why it holds a special place in his repertoire.
Mentoring Young Talent
In this heartfelt post, Nic discusses the thrill of working with emerging musicians, expressing how their fresh perspectives continually inspire his own artistry.
Follow Nic on Instagram for more insights and behind-the-scenes moments: @nicholasmcgegan
Looking Ahead
May 19 - Internationale Händel Festspiele Göttingen
In celebration of Nic’s 75th birthday, the Internationale Händel Festspiele Göttingen hosts a special tribute concert. A beloved figure in Germany’s Baroque scene, Nic shaped the Festival for over two decades. This evening features chamber works and arias by Vivaldi, sung by soprano Arianna Vendittelli, whose radiant voice and dazzling coloratura capture the spirit of 18th-century opera.
May 27 & 29 – Dido and Aeneas, Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (Ireland)
Nic conducts Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas in the atmospheric St. Carthage’s Cathedral, Lismore — a perfect setting for this tale of love and loss. Expect emotional intensity and the full expressive power of English Baroque under Nic’s direction.
June 2 – Baroque Hits, Blackwater Valley Opera Festival
Nic brings the 2025 Blackwater Valley Opera Festival to a rousing close with a glittering Festival Finale Concert at the stunning Dromore Yard. Joining forces with the Olivier Award-winning Irish Baroque Orchestra — Ireland’s premier period instrument ensemble — and acclaimed Irish mezzo-soprano Paula Murrihy, Nic leads a vibrant evening celebrating the best of the Baroque.
On the Horizon: Aspen Music Festival
Friday, July 11 – Chamber Symphony
Thursday, July 17 – A Baroque Evening with Nicholas McGegan