Posted by Klery on Jul 18, 2019 in String Quartet |

They say brilliant minds have the heaviest souls. The more accomplished or advanced an individual is, a shift seems to occur to provide balance. It is the creative, analytical and progressive thinkers that are labeled as weird, quirky or plain crazy by the general population. Until a grand discovery or result is provided, it is not often the label dissolves on its own. Famous composers in classical music history have a long resume of oddities that do not seem to harmonize with their legendary Musical contributions.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Mozart is perhaps one of the most renowned composers in history. His genius works are elegant and timeless. As one of the greats, he is still well known and played after the passing of over two centuries. Those who knew him, would also claim he had some different habits. He bored easily and filled his time with wat seemed as comedic reliefs for the moment. He is said to enjoy behaving as a cat during practice sessions and while in groups. Leaping about tabletops and meowing loudly would likely make him stand out in a crowd. In light of this feline fact, he remains a master of his Classical craft.

Erik Satie

Satie was a French Composer from the Nineteenth Century. Famed for his piano suites, he also had a comedic side. He titled his works with odd names that contradicted the typical Classical themes. While most considered it as a unique trait, it may have been a clue into the other parts of his life. We are used to creative persons lavishing in color and tone, yet Erik Satie found himself at the other end of the spectrum. Enjoying the monochromatic side of style, he owned multiple velvet gray suits that were completely identical. He wore one continuously until it was in disrepair before reaching for the next in the lineup. This coincides with the many letters he had written to himself where some described his desire to eat only white foods.

Anton Bruckner

This Austrian composer had a fascination or obsession with numbers. He generated lengthy lists of accounted repetitions. These logs depicted how many times he did various things in a day. Forging numerical patterns in his music was not a secret, however he was the only one who knew the configurations. This can easily be contributed to autism or an obsessive compulsive disorder if it were not for the next detail. There are two funerals Bruckner was known to have attended. Beethoven and Schubert had services only months apart. When Anton stepped up to pay his respects, he shocked fellow mourners by grabbing the skull or head of the deceased. He held on so tightly he had to be physically removed from the scene.

It is hard to imagine the energy behind the scenes can have hints of a conflicting perception of their surroundings. It appears a distinguished higher level of thought and imagination can translate into its own class. We as a whole are fortunate to have individuals who walk to the beat of a different tune for they are the greatest innovators of our time.

Posted by Klery on May 18, 2019 in String Quartet |

Classical music is both timeless and iconic. The genre differs from the trend setting tunes you hear on the radio today. When you have children, it is beneficial for them to be well rounded in cultures and musical tidings. Younger kids and teens are becoming who they are meant to be with an inclusion of their experiences, exposures and expectations as their guide. As with any learning endeavor, beginning early on ranks a higher success rate of adaptability. It is smart for parents to infuse a variety of musical tastes in their environment.

Posted by Klery on Mar 29, 2019 in String Quartet |

Through the Ages, Classical Music has been a foundational introduction to learning notes and instruments while gaining a diverse palate. Composers have their own unique style that adds charming sounds to the Musical set. From a young age we are exposed to several genres that have an impact on our lives. Classical Music especially is proven to hold a wide array of benefits for their listeners. You may have heard of a few, yet the complexity of Classical Music reaches further than only one or two adages.

Posted by Klery on Jan 6, 2019 in String Quartet |

Classical Music has long been associated with the tidings of serenity and tranquility. Many assume it is the elements of the instrument such as the piano or violin. Studies have shown Music’s ability to connect with our emotions and thoughts. When a piece is written, it is not based on what “sounds” good.

Posted by Klery on Jun 22, 2018 in String Quartet |

The cello, invented in the early part of the 16th century, is a significant instrument which had undergone various stages of development in human history. The music eras saw the evolution of the cello. Bach, during the Baroque era, made beautiful music without the accompaniment of the cello.

Posted by Klery on Jun 14, 2018 in String Quartet |

Tracing its roots to the traditions of western cultures, classical music has for a long time enthralled music fans since the 12th century. Classics owe their success in the golden age between 12th to 17th century to a few of its famous composers; the likes of Johanna Sebastian Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Though not like years gone by, classical music continues to still boast of a loyal following and still garners new fans to-date. For long-time classics’ lovers and new fans, looking to quench your thirst for great content of classical music or perhaps spicing up your playlist, read on to know where to find classics.

Posted by Klery on Jun 1, 2018 in String Quartet |

With the rise of alternative music genres such as jazz, pop music, and electronic, classical music took a back seat in the contemporary music industry. It’s almost unheard of to find a youthful person listening to classical music or merely displaying an interest in it these days. For this reason, many pundits have claimed classical music is in its death bed, which is a major misconception. Classical music remains very much alive, and people all over the world still hold a keen interest in the genre.

Posted by Klery on May 13, 2018 in String Quartet |

It is important when you go to hear an orchestra that you do so in a venue that enhances the sound of the music. There are some amazing concert halls and opera houses around the world that are really the best places you can go if you want to listen to an orchestral performance.

Posted by Klery on May 11, 2018 in String Quartet |

Musical instruments have changed dramatically over the years and there are so many different types of instruments that are still played today.Many Asian and African countries still use old traditional instruments today, but you seldom see them out of their own environments. However, there are some modern instruments that are popular all over the world and we look at some of the favorites here.

Posted by Klery on May 8, 2018 in String Quartet |

Whether you’re a newcomer to the modern classical music scene or already a die-hard fan, it’s worth knowing which are the best places in the world to experience a concert in real life. Nothing beats hearing an orchestra perform Mozart or Bach just feet away from you, and the atmosphere created by an excited crowd of aficionados adds an extra level of elation.

Wherever you are in the world, Europe, America, Australia or beyond, such is the reach of classical music that you will be able to find somewhere near you perfectly suited to a live concert. Here, we’ve put together a list of the most desirable destinations across the globe.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

Perhaps the most recognisable concert hall in the world right now is the soaring outline of the Sydney Opera House. Conceptualised by Danish designer Jørn Utzon, the venue was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1973 and almost immediately became a global icon. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying that this building has become one of the most famous in the modern world. It’s home to Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the main Concert Hall hosts the Sydney Opera House Grand Organ, which boasts over 10, 000 pipes.

Carnegie Hall, New York, USA

Carnegie Hall may not be as visually impressive as the Australian building, but it certainly has a massive presence as a music venue. Opened in 1891 and named after famed Scottish philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, its purpose is to “bring the transformative power of music to the widest possible audience”. It’s well known for its collection of world premiere performances, including works by Strauss, Gershwin and Duke Ellington, often with the composer conducting. A visit to this concert hall could result in a once-in-a-lifetime experience, at one of the most celebrated musical venues in the USA.

Royal Albert Hall, London, UK

A trip to London would not be complete without a peek inside the beautiful Royal Albert Hall. Opened in 1871 by Queen Victoria, the building is named after her husband, Prince Albert, who had died ten years previously. As a memorial it is magnificent, but as a music venue it is historic. Catering for much more than just classical music, the building has seen everything from the Eurovision Song Contest to Pink Floyd to the WWE within its walls, along with concerts from Classic FM, the BBC Proms and Classical Spectacular.

Mariinsky Theatre, St Petersburg, Russia

Opened in 1860, the Mariinsky Theatre has seen the likes of Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev and Mussorgsky performed on its stage through the years and has been home to both the Imperial Ballet and the Imperial Opera. Nowadays, it does a fantastic job of bringing the past and the present together in a magical, opulent setting, premiering new works alongside the celebrated old masters that form such a vital part of the theatre’s story. Its grand interior must be seen to be believed, and a night spent here will whisk you away into a fairytale of Russian antiquity.

Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall, Japan

This thoroughly modern and impressive piece of architecture is located within the Tokyo Opera City Tower, the seventh-tallest building in Japan’s capital city. Opened in 1997, it’s the newest concert venue on this list but it definitely deserves its accolade of ‘must-see’. The oak interior that forms a pyramid-shaped roof is designed specifically to enhance the acoustics and makes for an interesting environment in which to sit. As a newer building, it is able to utilise the latest advancements in technology to create the ultimate listening experience, with such complete silence created inside that each rustle of the audience can be heard.

Unless you’re a hardcore traveller, it’s unlikely that you’ll experience every one of these classical music venues in a lifetime. However, this is where the power of the internet comes into play. Whether I’m on the road or sat at home, I turn to my phone or tablet for entertainment; I do the daily crossword on The Guardian, play a few hands at Skyvegas and check in with my opponents on WordsWithFriends. Lately, I’ve also been using my handheld devices to get my classical music fix. The release of the BBC’s new Sounds app means that I can access concerts and broadcasts that I might have missed, whereas Idagio gives me a whole new world of curated playlists and accessible classics to listen to at my own pace.Whilst you don’t have to visit a world-class music venue to enjoy listening to Brahms, Beethoven or Vivaldi, it certainly does enhance the experience. You can use internet players and apps to keep you topped up in between, but I can wholeheartedly recommend attending ‘the real thing’ at your nearest concert hall to understand the full potency of those classic pieces of music.

Posted by Klery on May 2, 2018 in String Quartet |

Every musical instrument falls into the orchestral groups of instruments. If you look at an orchestra from the front, the musicians are sitting in a certain position defined by what instruments that they are playing.

Posted by Klery on Apr 26, 2018 in String Quartet |

Having an interest learn how to play an instrument is fun. The act of playing an instrument is beautiful and a skill that you can use all your life. It does take a lot of discipline though and commitment from the student to make them a master of their chosen instrument. For a classical instrument, you will need to understand and act on the following fundamental principles.

Principles of Classical Instruments

No matter the thought and pressure, keep in mind that you alone can best teach yourself. Having this understanding helps encourage yourself to become better at it. Make the learning process fun. When you enjoy what you do, it makes it easier to improve your skills.

Switch on your brain as you practice, and your improvement of the instrument will double. Learn to focus as you play the instrument, when you develop the ability to concentrate, you will get better at being focused.

Any problem you encounter in the process of learning should be your focus point until you overcome the mistake. Play the problematic tune more slowly until you do not find it difficult anymore. After that, try increasing the tempo and use the help of a metronome to mark time.

How to Build Your Skills

Jazz

Always try to play the instrument as correctly as you can. So, don’t start by playing fast. You will make a lot of mistakes if you do that. Try playing slowly repeatedly until you are better at it, and then increase the tempo. Create time to practice every day and make use of every available opportunity to work on playing the instrument. You can choose any time of the day for practice. You need to have a special place for practice. Find a place that will help you concentrate, and avoid the distractions that come from TV, radio and several other sources.

You should understand that learning an instrument is a long process. Prepare your mind for this and learn to play with patience. Initially, as you begin learning by playing slowly, it may not sound musical to your ears. Don’t worry – your effort will pay off in the long run if you dot quit. The more you play, the more you begin to hear the music in the note you play.

You can you can play a melody while practicing. Think of a famous childhood song and try it on the 12 keys. If you wish to learn jazz, then you have to understand scales, patterns, chords, and be good in all the 12 keys. Listening to talented and skilled instrumentalists is important too. Get a record of their best performance related to your area of interest and pay attention so that you can improve in their areas of weakness. The idea of ‘practice makes perfect’ is not true in the actual sense. When you practice, your focus should be on becoming better in the art. Then keep assessing your performance, and you will improve the way you play music.

Playing an instrument can bring you such joy and delight to a person’s life, as well as increase intelligence and help with focus and work ethic. We hope these ideas can help you in your journey.

Posted by Klery on Apr 16, 2018 in String Quartet |

Many people love the idea of classical music and listen to it at home because there are so many great benefits to listening to it. Many find that string quartets are a great option when it comes to classical music. Here are a few of the best quartets to see live in the States this year.

Belcea String Quartet

Arnold Schoenberg and his band were got all the fame in Germany for not following the traditional rules for composition of songs. Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel, however, were working tirelessly and secretly testing some new styles which were revolutionary in the history of music. Later, these styles were named Impressionism.

It involves some sounds purely made to play on its own without the need to go with other sounds. The quartet composed by Debussy gives the listener the feeling of being lifted the sky, while that of Ravel makes some unexpected twists even with all the music rules intact. However, Belcea Quartet has a touch of French in it and is a masterpiece no one can afford to miss.

Lindsay String Quartet

These quartets represent the height of Haydn’s music writing career which should have fetched him the title “Father of String Instrument” just as he was named “Father of Symphony”.  He composed the Second Quartet, very fascinating that it was given the term “Fifths” taken from the musical intervals contained in the first movement themes.

The third quarter is a variant of the song “God Save Emperor Franz” which later became the national anthem of Austria and nicknamed “Emperor”, while the fourth quarter was named “Sunrise” and introduced by an ascending violin line. The sixth quartet has no tag but is the most creative of the quartets. It has a “fantasia” that is slow and has various surprising movements. Today, the Lindsay are the best interpreters of Haydn’s music, and their performance attests to that.

Takacs String Quartet

The five last quartets composed by Beethoven were finished before he passed away. All his quartets are great works of outstanding creativity of the man himself. The music deviates from the rules, yet they are deep and sensational. Most of his work is influenced by Bach, and it is quite noticeable, especially “Grosse Fuge and “Op 131”. Beethoven artistry is deeply felt in the Takacs Quartet. The Emerson Quartet which shows the same skill cannot compare regarding depth of feeling.

Emerson String Quartet

Tchaikovsky was a student when he wrote the string quartet which was published in 1940 as his first work. The second movement lyric is amazing and, today, many instrumentalists feature it during concerts as Andante Cantabile on cello and strings. Equally amazing are the other movements as they burn with intensity into the heart of listeners, and the last movement gives the work a great conclusion.

There are many great quartets all around the world, these are just a few of the best ones that you can see this year. We hope you enjoy your show and the work of these great guys.

Posted by Klery on Apr 10, 2018 in String Quartet |

The violin is one of the most popularly used stringed musical instruments. It is played with a bow just like a guitar. Sting musical instruments played with a bow dates back to ancient times. Although there is no detailed information on its origin, a violin (which is bigger than a violoncello and viola) can be said to date back to the middle of the 16^th century in Italy. Andrea Amati born in 1500 and died in 1577 is said to be the maker of the first violin and the owner of the Cremona school of violin making. 

Posted by Klery on Mar 3, 2018 in String Quartet |

The process of joining an orchestra is not as difficult as most people make it seem. You can master your skills and join an orchestra. It does not require knowledge of rocket science to do this. Read through to have an idea of what it takes to join an orchestra.

Posted by Klery on Feb 25, 2018 in String Quartet |

A string quartet is essentially a music group or musical ensemble comprising of four string players, generally two playing violins, one playing a viola and the fourth playing the cello. The string quartet is widely acknowledged as among the most prominent chamber classical music ensembles. The outer movements of the quartet can be fast while the inner movements may comprise a slow movement and a minuet or some form of dance movement.

Posted by Klery on Feb 14, 2018 in String Quartet |

Renowned for its chamber music concerts, the Portland String Quartet (PSO) has contributed enormously to the local and international classical music niche. Starting as the Portland Symphony String Quartet (PSSQ), its members have progressed to become key members in the Portland Symphony Orchestra. Where many of them also created studios for teaching, positions for school music, and organize chamber music events which render full-time service to Maine. Since it was established in 1969, with Maestro Paul Vermel leading the group when it first began, it has served as a model for symphonies its size.

Posted by Klery on Feb 3, 2018 in String Quartet |

From New York to Massachusetts, America has some great schools to study classical music. Below are some top schools for music performance and composition in the U.S. They each offer great music courses, have an accomplished faculty and numerous performance opportunities.