“When musicians play instruments, their brains are processing a huge amount and variety of information in parallel. Musical styles and strengths vary dramatically: Some musicians are better at sight reading music, while others are better at playing by ear. Does this mean that their brains are processing information differently?”
Category: music
Justin Davidson: Shouldn’t The Metropolitan Opera Be Doing A Better Job Of New Opera?
“Art demands openness, persistence, and a willingness to tolerate failure. You can’t expect an opera composer to write a great opera if she’s never had the chance to write a mediocre one — or five.”
My Very First Classical Concert Was In My Own Living Room (And It Was Amazing)
Tamara Best: “I barely listen to classical music, so how did a live string quartet end up in my apartment on a Saturday night?” (The answer: Groupmuse.)
In Last-Minute Turnaround, Toronto Symphony Sees $4 Million+ Deficit Become $831K Surplus
What’s more, $5 million in debt has been paid down. “It’s an impressive result, considering the financial wake that former President and CEO Jeff Melanson left when he abruptly resigned last March.”
There’s A Settlement In The Fort Worth Symphony Strike
The musicians’ three-month work stoppage will be over if they ratify the proposed new contract on Wednesday. So what’s in the new deal? Well …
Jazz Sucks! This Meme Is Picking Up Speed
“These may seem like isolated incidents, but they are not the only examples in an alarming pattern of offhand derision and dismissal of jazz in popular culture. Why are these media denizens suddenly picking on jazz? What does it mean?”
Instagram Has Fast Become Musicians’ Social Media Platform Of Choice
“Instagram has taken a series of small steps to turn its once photo-driven service into a creative haven where artists tease new music, reveal album artwork, announce tour dates, and offer intimate behind-the-scenes glimpses.”
Detroit Symphony Debuts Its Adult Community Orchestra
“Student training ensembles are de rigueur among American orchestras, but the Detroit Community Orchestra extends the idea to adults. Several other major orchestras have started musical training programs for avocational musicians, but the DSO model of an ongoing chamber orchestra appears unique. The musicians rehearse weekly at the Max, conducted by two former high school music directors who work in the DSO’s community and learning department. DSO musicians also work on occasion with the new ensemble as coaches.”
A 360-Degree Video Of Anna Netrebko, Backstage At The Met
This is a New York Times experiment that you’ll need to play, and play with, in order to appreciate.
The Pittsburgh Symphony May Be Playing Again, But Its Financial Problems Continue
The symphony hasn’t had a balanced budget since the 2007-2008 season (you may recognize that as right before the Great Recession, by the way).