Tag: neoclassical

269. Sergei Prokofiev

~ ernopepper ~ Leave a comment

(June 2020) Episode 269 is SERGEI PROKOFIEV. Boy do I love 20th Century Russian composers.  He was one of the big trio of Soviet composers (with Shostakovich and Khachaturian) whose output was shaped (or crimped) by political constraints. Yet he composed masterpieces in a broad range of forms: symphonies, operas, ballets, concertos, sonatas, songs.  I’m particularly fond of his early (Stravinsky-ish) modernist compositions.  Most know him as the ‘Peter and the Wolf’ guy.

Favorite piece: Symphony #5

Favorite chamber piece: Cello concerto in E minor

Favorite ballet: Romeo and Juliet

Favorite opera: The Fiery Angel

Favorite solo piece: Piano sonata #6

Compared to expectations: same

Sergei_Prokofiev_circa_1918_over_Chair_Bain

117. Dmitri Shostakovich

~ ernopepper ~ Leave a comment

(March 2017) I have completed episode 117 of my “opus project,” in which I listen to the complete works of an artist. This edition: DMITRI SHOSTAKOVICH. I’m a big fan of 20th century Russian composers. I especially like his dynamic symphonies and string quartets. I noticed how he modulates between loud and quiet, and tends to finish movements quietly rather than with a classic flourish. It’s amazing to learn how he navigated his artistic expression through war and the Soviet system, suffering two denunciations. His martial works lauding Stalin and the Red Army come off as creepy, but that’s what he had to do to stay alive.

Favorite work: Symphony No. 5

Favorite movement: Largo, 3rd movement of Symphony No. 5

Favorite string quartet: 8th

Favorite opera: The Nose

Favorite overture: Festive Overture

Favorite piano work: Piano Trio No. 2

Compared to expectations: ↑

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38. Igor Stravinsky

~ ernopepper ~ Leave a comment

(September 2014) I have completed phase 38 of my “opus project” in which I listen to the complete works of an artist. This episode: IGOR STRAVINSKY.   I went into this as a casual fan, and came out a huge admirer.   Almost every piece has something interesting or unexpected.   Very rich.

 

Favorite ballet (and favorite work): The Rite of Spring

Favorite orchestral piece: 8 instrumental miniatures

Favorite concertante: Concerto for piano and wind instruments

Favorite choral piece: Mass

Favorite vocal piece: Pastorale

Favorite chamber piece: Three pieces for clarinet

Favorite piano piece: Concerto for two pianos

Compared to expectations: ↑

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