Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Wednesday Wow - Rachmaninov

A friend, Trish, invited me to join her for a night of Rachmaninov and the Fort Worth Symphony.
I couldn't say no. I took an Uber into Fort Worth, basked in the glory of Bass Hall, and soaked in the beauty of classical pianists. I admit I know nothing about classical music. Many refrains of Rachmaninov are no doubt part of movie soundtracks - I could recognize refrains.

The three pianists sounded awesome to my untrained ears. Plenty of dramatic arm flourishes, rapid riffs up and down the keyboard, and the symphony sounded beautiful. I thought the conductor was thoughtful and encouraged the group.

I did read the review in the paper and OMG - I was SO wrong. Apparently the conductor had no clue, the symphony drowned out key elements, and the pianist I liked the most - Yeol Eum Son, was over dramatic and not worthy.

Big sigh.  Best to not know anything.  Just bask in the glory of sound, feel the music, and Uber home content.

Support your local symphony and musicians. Do not over think. Let the music wash over you.

10 comments:

  1. You enjoyed it - that's what matters.
    I can play and hear all of my mistakes. When I ask my wife, she'll say it was incredible. Ignorance is bliss sometimes.

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    1. yep -and I can sing amazingly in the shower too. Ha!

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  2. When you don't know the ins and outs, you can enjoy more indeed.

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  3. If you liked it then that's all that matters.

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  4. Hi Joanne - bless them ... just glad you enjoyed it and the Uber ride home - cheers Hilary

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    1. I just admire the intensity of these pianists. It's impressive

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  5. Ouch. What a harsh review. It makes me feel badly for the performers and conductor. It's just mean and snooty to write that kind of thing. I can't imagine the amount of talent it all takes. Glad you enjoyed it, Joanne.

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  6. It's all a matter of opinion and perspective. I say I'm glad you enjoyed it. :)

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