The love story between Robert and Clara Schumann is often regarded as one of the most romantic in classical music history. Happily for historians, many of their love letters survive. They document their inner thoughts and emotions, as well as
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- Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 9 (1908-11) October 10th, 2012 The German born conductor Bruno Walter worked closely with Gustav Mahler as an assistant and protégé. In addition, he frequently heard Mahler conduct his own works. Since Mahler did not live to lead performances of Das Lied von der Erde
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Vienna’s ‘Ringstrasse’ Style and Modernism October 9th, 2012 Brahms Fest und Gedenkspruche, Op. 109 Strauss II Die Fledermaus (excerpts) Schoenberg Verklarte Nacht (Transfigured Night), Op. 4 (version for string orchestra) Emperor Franz Josef I came to power after the revolution of 1848 – a time which saw the -
Mozart in London V October 8th, 2012 Scholars are generally in agreement that the young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart attended a performance of J.C. Bach’s opera “Adriano in Siria,” which premiered at King’s Theatre London on 26 January 1765. J.C. was clearly at the centre of London’s almost -
Claude Debussy: The Moon, The Sea; Dreams and Desires October 5th, 2012 The music of Claude Debussy is evocative. One cannot help but be transported by his subtle shadings of tone color, delicate instrumentations and shimmering melodies. A master at the piano and of orchestration, his name is linked with Impressionism although -
Jan Ladislav Dussek September 28th, 2012 The tradition of the touring piano virtuoso did not start with Sigismond Thalberg or even Franz Liszt. This distinct honour should rightfully be bestowed upon the Czech pianist and composer Jan Ladislav Dussek, who was born 12 February 1760 in - German Adventures I
Liszt and Charlotte von Hagn September 27th, 2012Liszt Was Liebe sei?, S288/1/R575a Was Liebe sei?, S288/2/R575b Was Liebe sei?, S288/3/R575c After a highly successful tour of Russia, Franz Liszt arrived in Berlin and played his first recital at the Berlin Singakademie on 27 December 1841. His performance -
Brass Buzz September 26th, 2012 Brass players are lucky to have some of the most gorgeous music written for them. One can’t help but think of Bruckner Symphonies, like the 9th Symphony with 8 horns, 4 of them doubling on Wagner Tubas, 3 trumpets and -
Mozart in London IV September 25th, 2012 During his stay in London, Wolfi apparently composed a number of duet sonatas, that is, two players performing at one piano. They were probably intended for his personal use and included the participation from his sister Nannerl. Advertisements from 1765
