As a mythological character, Hercules is one who has always captured our attention. Famed for his strength and for his adventures around the known world, he’s caught the attention of writers and musicians for centuries. The stories and feats of
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Musical Giants of the 20th Century: Classical Music Ensembles May 7th, 2017 Musicians have long known that playing or singing in an ensemble can be one of the most rewarding and enjoyable musical experiences. The process of making music with friends or like-minded musicians provides the unique opportunity to discuss interpretative opinions, -
Cellos and Cellists Star IN the Movies May 7th, 2017 When I mention that I play the cello, people say, “The cello is my favorite instrument.” Hollywood has picked up on that sentiment. No longer merely the provider of soulful background music, although it is not yet an Oscar category, -
Mrs. President May 6th, 2017 Much of the political landscape in 2016 was dominated by Hillary Clinton’s attempt to become the first female President of the United States. In the end, as we all know, it didn’t quite work out. However, Hillary Clinton was by -
Composers and their Poets: Ernest Chausson May 5th, 2017 French Chansons Composed by Ernest Chausson French composer Ernest Chausson’s early death in a bicycle accident cut short a career just as it was beginning to flourish. His position as secretary of the Société Nationale de Musique for 13 years -
Claudio Monteverdi May 4th, 2017 Creator of modern music In 2017 we celebrate the 450th birthday of Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643). He was the most important musician in late 16th and early 17th-century Italy, and the first great composer of opera. He developed powerful ways of - Unsung Concertos
Mieczysław Karłowicz: Violin Concerto in A Major, Op. 8 May 3rd, 2017Mieczysław Karłowicz (1876-1909) met his end in a rather unusual way. An avid hiker, photographer and skier, he undertook long solitary mountain hikes in the Tatra Mountains. During one of his expeditions on 8 February 1909, a sudden avalanche buried -
Rewriting Artist Biographies May 2nd, 2017 Another concert programme, another artist biography comprising a dry list of eminent teachers and mentors, concert halls performed in, orchestras and conductors worked with, recordings made and “forthcoming engagements include”. All standard information: exchange the names and the impersonal text -
Ermonela Jaho May 1st, 2017 Truth, Openness and Honesty Just out of the window of the coffee shop where I meet Ermonela Jaho, I can see the towering pillars of the facade of the Royal Opera House, where a couple of nights ago she was
