Classical Music

I must admit, I have somewhat of a passion for classical music. I started listening to some of the major works of Tchaikovsky back in 1992, and I've been a fan of this particular musical genré ever since. Over the years my knowledge of the world of classical music has grown, my collection of classical works has indeed expanded, and my tastes have swayed more towards the works of the Baroque composers (usually defined as being composed between 1600 and 1750); specifically the works of Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750). Not that I don't enjoy other works by other composers, it is just that at this particular time I happen to enjoy Bach's works over the others because of his style, genius, and motivations.

"Johann Sebastian Bach was born on March 21, 1685 in Eisenach, and died on July 28, 1750 in Leipzig. He is the most celebrated member of a large family of northern German musicians. Though he was considered old-fashioned in his lifetime and his works were neglected after his death, Bach was recognized in the 19th century as one of the greatest composers of the Western world, a preeminence that has continued undiminished in the 20th century." Encyclopedia Britannica

Bach, like a few others of the Baroque period, wrote for the sole purpose of glorifying God. He worked at a Lutheran church where he wrote most of his works, including new material for worship each Sunday. He was a devout Christian, which can be seen in most of works, and is the main reason why I enjoy his music so much.

J. S. BACH LINKS

I have also recently become interested in Opera (thank you, Laura!). My first opera was Mozart's Cosi Fan Tutte performed by Pittsburgh Opera in March of 1996, followed by Mascagni's Cavalleria Rusticana and Leoncavallo's I Pagliacci in April. I'm slowly learning to appreciate this wonderful new world that before quite frankly intimidated me...

OPERA LINKS


Apart from the composers mentioned, I also enjoy the works of several others; mostly of the Baroque period. G. F. Handel is, of course, one of the greatest right after Bach, with his oratorio Messiah being one of my favourite non-Bach works. With the harpsichord in my opinion the best instrument, I find some Classical and Romantic (being the periods after Baroque) pieces slightly unappealing ;).

BAROQUE MUSIC LINKS

CLASSICAL AND ROMANTIC MUSIC LINKS


Michael Sherman
mset@cmu.edu
Last updated December 8, 1996