Category: Classical Music

Classical Music – Sept 20

Yes we did have some popular piano music, some Liszt and some Chopin plus a brief session of Scott Joplin.

Next time the theme is “Does this count as c;assical music?

To make it easier, people can send me an email with a hyperlink to a Utube entry, I will build a small programme for all the choices. This can be in addition to bringing a CD.

As usual I’ve come away with four new ideas, including Yuja Wang, Floran Mitrea.

Plus Joanna Macgregor and the Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra  launching their Centenary

CM, Notes from 16 Aug exploration – Beethoven

 Everyone brought a CD from Beethoven’s work, which was probably guaranteed to introduce us to some new works.

For me this was Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No.32, his last. Ithink I have [layed N0.26,, but thi was entirely different  and the second variation would have been a real challenge to play. Wonderful.

I had brought along his Violin Sonata No.12. Written during one of his bouts of depression this Minuet would not have thrilled the hearts of young dancers in the prime of youth, may be an aged dowager. However apparently played on an 1820 style grand grand piano with Ralph Holmes playing his Stradivarius to give the piece the authenticity it deserved.

Our next meeting will be on September 20th.

Each to being their favourite Piano piece. 

What a wonderful and challenging experience

When I started the Classical Music group I realised that I didn’t know enough.

One of our group is a clarinetist so as a courtesy I looked into that.

Then I started thinking about violinists and this has been, and still is, a real joy, finding and listening to six violinists, and finding more Vivaldi and others. Hours of beautiful listening..

Wonderful.

It started with the word “processional”.

Yes I remembered The Hebrew Slaves from Nabucco, The Triumphal March from Aida and then there was the March of Torreadores from Carmen.

Of course, I must not forget Vidor’s Toccata.

But finally I remembered the word Tannhauser,

That was it. Wagner wasn’t it.

And finally “The Pilgrims’ Chorus.  What a magnificent sound when played on the church organ further helped with the sonorous base notes from the pedals.

Speaker System Controls

On Friday I had set up the system for a Youtube presentation. When it was finished, embarrassingly  I couldn’t get back to direct CDs.

So I needed to formalise how to change music mode easily.

Four experimental sessions (and a trip to the suppliers to reset my hearing aids) later:

MM1(music Mode)  – laptop,

For Youtube and Windows Media Player

Method – hard -wired via switch, either laptop and DVD 

From “Everything” turned off:

• Switch on computer, screen, rt hand audio switch, and speaker.

• Als switch Phonac Hearing Aid to Music channel

MM2 – DVD Player

DVD audio and video and CD audio

Methods – a. Hard -wired via switch, either laptop or DVD player

AND b. (the default method) link to hearing aids, normally

 automatic,  (speakers normally on stand-by)

• Switch off computer, 

• Switch on screen, left hand audio switch, and speaker.

• Als switch Phonac Hearing Aid to Music channel

MM3 – PIXXL smartphone using cast to screen

Switch everything off

(Default method) Cast to screen 

With no output to speakers

OR MM4, BUT my smartphone is set up to receive Bluetooth rather than send it out.

MM4 Bluetooth direct paired – No, I’m not happy

AND CERTAINLY not both  simultaneously  

Switch Hearing Aid to “Music” Channel

At least I now understand my problems on Friday!

VIOLINISTS and their Violins

According to my AI Assistant, Gemini:

“Determining the “finest” violins can be quite subjective, as various factors contribute to their excellence, including historical prestige, sound quality, playability, and personal preference. However, some violinists are known for wielding instruments considered at the absolute pinnacle of craftsmanship and value. Here are a few:

Stradivari Players:

• Anne Akiko Meyers: Owns the “ex-Kochanski” Guarneri del Gesu (1742) and the “Titian” Stradivari (1690).

• Leonidas Kavakos: Plays the “Wieniawski” Stradivari (1735).

• Joshua Bell: Uses the “Gibson, ex-Huberman” Stradivari (1713). Yes 

• Renaud Capuçon: Performs on the “Kreisler” Guarneri del Gesu (1739). YES

• Gidon Kremer: Plays the “Tartini” Stradivari (1715).

Guarneri del Gesu Players:

• Hilary Hahn: Owns the “Soil” Stradivari (1714) and the “Ladenini” Guarneri del Gesu (1731).#

• Nikolaj Znaider: Plays the “ex-Viotti” Guarneri del Gesu (1779).

• Julia Fischer: Uses the “Mute Stradivari” (1710) and the “Baron Deurbroucq” Guarneri del Gesu (1732).

Other Notable Instruments:

• Yo-Yo Ma: Plays the “Davidov Stradivari” cello (1712).

• Vilde Frang: Owns the “ex-Gingold” Guarneri del Gesu violin (1742).

• Viktoria Mullova: Performs on a Giovanni Battista Guadagnini violin (1779).

It’s important to remember that these are just a few examples, and countless other violinists play exquisite instruments with rich histories and exceptional sound. Ultimately, the finest violin is the one that resonates most deeply with the musician and allows them to express their art fully.

Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that many great violinists choose not to play on historical instruments due to various reasons, such as insurance costs, playing style preferences, or simply personal choice. Ultimately, the focus should be on the musician’s artistry and ability to connect with the audience, regardless of the instrument they wield.

I hope this information gives you a good starting point for exploring the fascinating world of violins and their masters!”

So I asked my AI Assistant, Gemini

What would you include under “Classical music FUN”

That’s a great question! The answer really depends on what you find “fun” in music. To help guide you, here are a few different approaches to finding fun in classical music:

1. Upbeat and Energetic Pieces:

• Fast tempos and playful melodies: Look for pieces like Rossini’s overtures, Vivaldi’s concertos, or Mozart’s finales. These are guaranteed to get your feet tapping.
• Dance music: Explore classical dances like waltzes, polkas, and jigs. Strauss, Smetana, and even Tchaikovsky offer plenty of options.
• Humor and Surprise: Some composers loved to inject humor into their music. Try Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals” or Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf” for some wacky sounds and unexpected turns.

2. Interactive and Engaging Experiences:

• Visual Accompaniment: Watch classical music videos with stunning visuals or animations. Some orchestras even have light shows!
• Play Along: If you’re a musician, try playing along with simplified versions of famous pieces. There are even apps and websites that can help you do this.
• Compose Your Own: Write your own short piece inspired by a classical composer or style.

3. Unconventional and Modern Takes:

• Crossover Artists: Explore musicians who blend classical with other genres like rock, electronica, or jazz. Try Apocalyptica, Lindsey Stirling, or Vanessa Mae.
• Minimalist Music: Some minimalist composers like Philip Glass and Steve Reich create repetitive and hypnotic soundscapes that can be surprisingly mesmerizing.
• Contemporary Classical: Today’s composers are pushing the boundaries of classical music. Discover their innovative works through organisations like the Kronos Quartet or Bang on a Can.

4. Beyond the Music:

• Learn about the Composers: Dive into the lives and personalities of the people who created this music. You might be surprised by their quirks and stories.
• Attend a Concert: Experience the power of live classical music in a concert hall. The energy and atmosphere can be truly magical.
• Make Connections: Discuss classical music with friends, family, or online communities. Sharing your passion can make it even more enjoyable.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to “fun” in classical music. Explore different styles, composers, and experiences to find what resonates with you and brings you joy.