Classical Music Talk

Claude Debussy (1862-1918) is one of the most enduring composers of all time. His music—typically is piano music—is often used in music to signal some sort of unarticulated malaise, which is appropriate for Debussy’s impressionist music. The French composer is known for his atmospheric music that transgresses traditional boundaries of pitch and key. Read more about Claude Debussy's "Nocturnes"

During the 1930’s and ‘40’s, the Soviet regime wanted memorable melodies in its music, probably so it would be easier for the public to remember music in the form of propaganda. They wanted music to be understood by all, and this was achieved not only with a memorable melody, but also with the “plain language of music,” or more traditional musical harmonies created by Beethoven and other prominent Germans. They wanted music which conformed to the doctrine of Socialist Realism-or music that would serve as propaganda for the ideals of the state—rather than “naturalism,” which, although it leveled the plane of all Soviets, also puts them in a “beastly guise.” Read more about Shostakovich's Soviet-Era Rebellion

Since the song “Lisztomania” by Phoenix became such a hit in the past few years, I thought it would be worthwhile to speak about the man who inspired it. Franz Liszt (1811-1886) was a Hungarian composer most well-known for his big hair and improvisatory piano stylings. Liszt composed much of the music we know today for himself to perform, making it extremely difficult for even a great pianist to perfect. He also was something of an innovator, using styles and techniques that didn’t become popular until the 20^th century. Read more about Franz Liszt

Some wouldn't call American composer Henry Cowell's "The Banshee" music. Some would call it ambient noise, while others would just call it fooling around on piano strings. Whatever you call it, Cowell's interpretation of a banshee's wail, orchestrated by plucking or strumming the strings inside a piano while also playing some of its keys, certainly opened the door to piano experimentation and new methods of interacting with the instrument. Read more about Henry Cowell's "The Banshee"