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How the French Influenced the Russians, and Vice Versa
Historically, the French and the Russians have had many moments of close intimacy, and the relationship that they have shared can be witnessed today. In their language, their arts, and of course their music. Interestingly enough, this influence has gone
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On This Day
5 April: Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 Was Premiered
Ludwig van Beethoven premiered his Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor on 5 April 1803 in Vienna. The origins of the work, however, date back to the summer of 1800. Escaping the stifling heat of the city, Beethoven habitually
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Confronting “The Beast” – Musicians’ Performance Anxiety
Thoughts from a Psychologist and former professional pianist, Heather O’Donnell In my work as a psychologist specialized in working with performing artists, few topics loom as prominently as performance anxiety. It’s an ubiquitous issue and one that manifests uniquely in
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On This Day
4 April: Andreas Ottensamer Was Born
Clarinet sensation Andreas Ottensamer is internationally known for his “beauty of tone and distinct musicality over a wide range of styles.” One of the most exciting and respected artists on the classical stage, Ottensamer is passionate about bringing classical music
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On This Day
3 April: Garrick Ohlsson was Born
Pianist Garrick Ohlsson, born on 3 April 1948 in Bronxville, New York, is still the only competitor born in the United States to win the gold medal award at the International Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw in 1970. He had
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The 19th century Diva of Divas: Adelina Patti
Spanish-born Adelina Patti (1843–1919) had a singing career that started when she was a child prodigy and ended in 1903. Over those sixty years, she made her name internationally for her purity of tone and the flexibility of her voice.
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On This Day
1 April: Christian Thielemann Was Born
Like no other conductor, Christian Thielemann’s artistic vision seems to divide the musical world. While his flamboyant interpretations are frequently the target of a hostile musical press, musicians and concertgoers appear to love him. Conservative in his musical and political
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Should You Watch This Documentary About Schumann’s Mental Illness?
In April 2023, PBS’s long-running television series Great Performances released a new documentary called “Schumann: Genius and Madness.” This documentary is part of the miniseries Now Hear This, hosted by violinist and conductor Scott Yoo. Each episode features performances by
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