Articles

4247 Posts
archive-post-image
On This Day
31 August: Itzhak Perlman Was Born
Itzhak Perlman is one of the world’s most popular classical musicians. “Beloved for his charm and humanity as well as his talent, he is treasured by audiences throughout the world who respond not only to his remarkable artistry, but also
Read more
archive-post-image
Playing the Cello: The Best Icebreaker
You’ve probably heard the cello on numerous occasions either because you love its deep baritone sounds or because the cello is used whenever someone dies in a movie. The cello—its vibrant sounds so close to the human voice—is the perfect
Read more
archive-post-image
On This Day
29 August: Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla Was Born
Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla is, without doubt, one of the most in demand conductors and music directors of our times. Gentle, strong, calm and self-confident, she proudly says, “The only thing that could ever stop me is my own lack of imagination.”
Read more
archive-post-image
On This Day
28 August: Bohuslav Martinů Died
Escaping Nazi oppression, Bohuslav Martinů found refuge in the United States. Struggling financially and eternally homesick, Martinů started to set folk song texts that became a symbolic connection to his beloved homeland. Dejected dreamlike vision of peace and the longing
Read more
archive-post-image
Opera Doctors – The 19th Century, Part II
As we progress further into the 19th century, doctors (be they medical or learned) become more than just figures of fun. In the last article, we saw doctors becoming major characters, if not the central character. In 1850 and beyond,
Read more
archive-post-image
On This Day
27 August: Gabriel Fauré’s Prométhée Was Premiered
On 27 August 1900 a massive number of performers assembled at Arènes de Béziers to premiere the tragédie lyrique, essentially the grand cantata Prométhée by Gabriel Fauré. The performing cast, numbering almost 800 participants including two wind bands and 15
Read more
archive-post-image
Prince and Composer: Louis Ferdinand of Prussia
Berlin-born Louis Ferdinand of Prussia (1772-1806) was a nephew of Frederick the Great. He was active in the Prussian military, serving as lieutenant general. He died in battle with French forces at the Battle of Saalfied, during the War of
Read more
archive-post-image
On This Day
26 August: Ralph Vaughan Williams Died
Ralph Vaughan Williams enjoyed excellent health throughout his life, and at the age of 85 he has just completed the piano score of his new opera Thomas the Rhymer. He also planned two song cycles for voice and piano, to
Read more