Symphony of the Americas celebrates The Women of Symphonic Music with The Symphony Classics program, “Trailblazers!” on Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Broward Center for Performing Arts Amaturo Theater. Conducted by Symphony of the Americas Music Director Pablo Mielgo, the program highlights the role of women in their different historical expressions over a 200-year timespan.

When it comes time to compile a “best of” list for the year, it’s a relatively simple process. I ask myself what albums I kept returning to time and time again. Beginning with Brandy Clark’s eponymous fourth album (which got the most spins of all) and concluding with Man On Man’s sensational second album “Provincetown,” it was a very queer year. While I did everything in my power to limit the list to five, I had to make an exception so you, dear reader, can learn about the great LGBTQ music put out in 2023.

In a recording career that spans more than 40 years, with well over a dozen studio albums of unforgettable originals, Grammy Award-winner Lucinda Williams has left an indelible mark on contemporary Americana, country, blues, pop, and rock music.

It’s safe to say that not every queer person digs opera or classical music. But those who do border on being cultlike.

Whether it’s carols, show tunes, pop, opera, or rap, nothing makes the holidays more festive than music, and there are many opportunities to enjoy your favorites this holiday season.

At the time of this writing, the war in Israel is raging with no end in sight. As the home of major world religions, all eyes are on this tiny country, especially as the holidays are approaching. To take our minds off the ongoing tragedies and to celebrate the holiday season, the following are some musical suggestions to get you into the spirit of the time.