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Becoming Music: Nielsen’s Pan og Syrinx
In 1918, between his Flute Concerto and his third symphony, Carl Nielsen wrote one of his few tone poems: Pan og Syrinx (Pan and Syrinx). The nymph Syrinx, known for her chastity, and vowing, as a follower of the huntress
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  • Valentine’s Music Valentine’s Music
    For me, Valentine’s Day is no more than an occasion for retailers to sell flowers and chocolates. But for lovers, I think every day can be Valentine’s, and a special thought, sweet message, or just a tender hug can be
  • Ravel’s Repetition Ravel’s Repetition
    If God hadn’t desired repetition, the world would never have been created. Soren Kierkegaard, Repetition Repetition is essential to music. Indeed, without some form of repetition, there is no rhythm. And few composers have taken this consideration of repetition as
  • Ogdon-Stokowski CD Ogdon-Stokowski CD
    Aix-en-Provence, 2nd Feb 2011. Most people have their favourite place, favourite wine, favourite composer. Here, I would like to share my favourite recording. Nearly a decade ago, I acquired from Brenda Lucas herself some recordings and manuscripts of her late
  • Feelings, nothing more than feelings Feelings, nothing more than feelings
    Music is a beautiful yet complicated creation. For learners, the initial focus ought to be on the technical side. Upon the mastery of the basic skills, however, it is the sensational aspect that the musicians have to observe in detail.
  • Why Were Opera Singers Fat? Why Were Opera Singers Fat?
    Picture in your head an image of an opera singer. Like many people, you may see the stereotype of a fat lady in an extravagant gown belting it out like there was no tomorrow. Why are opera singers fat? Or,
  • Concert Review: Michael Chance & City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong Concert Review: Michael Chance & City Chamber Orchestra of Hong Kong
    Tuesday 25 January 2011. Concert Hall, HK City Hall With a slight divergence from mainstream classical concert programmes, City Chamber Orchestra Hong Kong’s choice of performances captures a fuller audience base with diversified tastes. A counter-tenor recital featuring early vocal
  • Federico Mompou Federico Mompou
    Cancons i danses (1962) 12 Preludes (1960) Variations sur un theme de Chopin (1957) Federico (Frederic) Mompou (1893-1987) was one of the greatest Spanish composers of the 20th century. A Catalan by birth, he studied and appeared on stage in
  • Chinese repertoire or not Chinese repertoire? Chinese repertoire or not Chinese repertoire?
    The following is a fictional story. Any resemblance to actual individuals or events is purely coincidental. An internationally renowned conductor is invited to lead the New Year concert at one of the most prestigious halls in China. The maestro kindly