Music

World Music Exploration - Rhapsody in g minor by Brahms

Johannes Brahms lived from 1833 - 1897. Like all the other selections this month, Brahms hailed from Germany. He wrote works for piano, orchestra, singers and several small chamber ensembles. I've heard many times that a certain level of emotional maturity is needed to play his works well. Having played and heard several of his works, I tend to agree.

This is Brahms' Rhapsody in g minor, op. 79 no. 2.

Great Performances - Eric Whitacre and his Virtual Choir

People from around the world auditioned by submitting their Youtube performance of their part, recorded while following the audio track and video of Whitacre conducting.One person came forward to clean up the audio and put the 2000+ videos together. The result is astounding. Magical.This one is called "Sleep"

World Music Exploration - Handel's Messiah

Handel was an interesting character. Born in Germany, immigrated to England. His opera seria were popular back in the day. Then, when the middle class began their ascent into power, opera seria wasn't so popular. Handel turned to oratorios as one way to win back audiences.