Other Listening
It's so easy for musicians to become absorbed in studying and practicing the music of their own instrument or voice and never branch out to other kinds of listening. Throughout my years as a student and arts administrator, I have attended master classes and performances of almost every other instrument, and have found that a special kind of insight about music itself can be gained by listening to every kind of music. With that in mind, I've come up with a (very) brief list of pieces that are worth checking out:
Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five When It's Sleepy Time Down South
If you aren't already a fan of jazz, this is a fun introduction to the genre. Armstrong is a monumental figure in the history of jazz, and this fun tune showcases his skill as both trumpeter and singer. Jazz musicians are often, in my opinion, more in touch with their own creativity than we classical musicians allow ourselves to be, and I think it's good to take a lesson from them in musical expression. And it's just fun! Be sure to check out the American Masters documentary film on Armstrong.
Johannes Brahms Sonata No. 1 in G Major for Violin and Piano
Actually, all three of the Brahms Sonatas are absolute must-listens, but I just chose one to get the ball rolling (and what better than the very first). These Romantic sonatas contain some of the most beautiful melodies ever composed in my opinion. Every note is full of meaning, and the piano parts are just as beautiful (and difficult) as the violin parts. I particularly like the recording of the set by violinist Stefan Jackiw.
Maurice Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major
This gorgeous concerto fully utilizes the best qualities of the piano within a colorful orchestral sound. I especially love the second movement, with its nostalgic harmonies and waterfall-like themes (actually, for those of you who are fans of the most recently release film version of Pride and Prejudice, I find that some of the thematic material of the soundtrack is reminiscent of some of the passages in this movement). My favorite recordings of this are by pianist Helene Grimaud.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky Variations on a Rococo Theme
This stunning piece for cello and orchestra is just as its name suggests, a set of variations on a theme in the Rococo style. This piece really highlights the cello's ability to be light and graceful, and also happens to have a pretty tricky but fun flute solo. Check out the recording by Yo Yo Ma.
It's so easy for musicians to become absorbed in studying and practicing the music of their own instrument or voice and never branch out to other kinds of listening. Throughout my years as a student and arts administrator, I have attended master classes and performances of almost every other instrument, and have found that a special kind of insight about music itself can be gained by listening to every kind of music. With that in mind, I've come up with a (very) brief list of pieces that are worth checking out:
Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five When It's Sleepy Time Down South
If you aren't already a fan of jazz, this is a fun introduction to the genre. Armstrong is a monumental figure in the history of jazz, and this fun tune showcases his skill as both trumpeter and singer. Jazz musicians are often, in my opinion, more in touch with their own creativity than we classical musicians allow ourselves to be, and I think it's good to take a lesson from them in musical expression. And it's just fun! Be sure to check out the American Masters documentary film on Armstrong.
Johannes Brahms Sonata No. 1 in G Major for Violin and Piano
Actually, all three of the Brahms Sonatas are absolute must-listens, but I just chose one to get the ball rolling (and what better than the very first). These Romantic sonatas contain some of the most beautiful melodies ever composed in my opinion. Every note is full of meaning, and the piano parts are just as beautiful (and difficult) as the violin parts. I particularly like the recording of the set by violinist Stefan Jackiw.
Maurice Ravel Piano Concerto in G Major
This gorgeous concerto fully utilizes the best qualities of the piano within a colorful orchestral sound. I especially love the second movement, with its nostalgic harmonies and waterfall-like themes (actually, for those of you who are fans of the most recently release film version of Pride and Prejudice, I find that some of the thematic material of the soundtrack is reminiscent of some of the passages in this movement). My favorite recordings of this are by pianist Helene Grimaud.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky Variations on a Rococo Theme
This stunning piece for cello and orchestra is just as its name suggests, a set of variations on a theme in the Rococo style. This piece really highlights the cello's ability to be light and graceful, and also happens to have a pretty tricky but fun flute solo. Check out the recording by Yo Yo Ma.
