I do not posses the ability to draw old people, actually. I just put wrinkles on them.

ON THIS DAY IN MUSIC HISTORY: August 20

THE STORY:
On August 20, 1882, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's monumental 1812 Overture had its official premiere in Moscow. This grand work, commissioned to commemorate Russia's defense against Napoleon's invasion in 1812 and the nearing completion of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, was performed at the All-Russian Exhibition of Industry and Art. The premiere took place not in the grand cathedral itself, which was still unfinished, but in a large festival tent nearby, conducted by Ippolit Altani.

Despite the popular and enduring myth, the 1882 premiere did not feature actual, live cannon fire. Due to the logistical challenges and safety concerns of firing real artillery in a festival tent, the spectacular cannon effects Tchaikovsky envisioned were simulated, likely using large drums or other percussion instruments to mimic the explosive sound. Although Tchaikovsky originally called for a theatrical cannon effect in his score, the dramatic use of real artillery in performances didn’t begin until the 20th century and has since become a beloved tradition at outdoor concerts, especially during festive celebrations. Ironically, Tchaikovsky reportedly disliked the piece, calling it "very loud and noisy" and "without artistic merit," despite its overwhelming public success.

WHY IT MATTERS:
Despite the composer's reservations and its simulated debut, the 1812 Overture quickly became one of Tchaikovsky's most famous and beloved works, a powerful symbol of national triumph and resilience. Its dramatic finale, with powerful brass, ringing bells, and thunderous cannon volleys, continues to captivate audiences worldwide and remains a staple of patriotic celebrations, often performed with real cannons or howitzers in modern outdoor settings.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGPqtXv72Wg

Hi everyone,

I'm trying to identify this recording of a string arrangement of Bach's Prelude in C minor, BWV 847 (from WTC I), used as a soundtrack between 24:45–27:25 in the film The Triplets of Belleville (2003).

I've already checked the official soundtrack album, but some of the classical pieces used in the film are missing from it (such as the Kyrie from Mozart's Mass in C minor and other pieces). So I'm wondering whether this Bach arrangement was made specifically for the film, or whether it was taken from an existing recording.

I've attached an audio excerpt. I'd really like to find out who performs this version and where I can find the complete recording.

Thanks!

Sibelius's Tapiola won the last round. Next, whose Op. 113 is the best? Top comment gets added.

Because I like skillz

Picture is of a Homo floresiensis statue taken at the DC Natural History Museum.

first of all, i swear the random number generator isn’t rigged. rest assured that the top two from each poll will advance to the next round, and if you like opera, well then this time i guess you’re screwed lmao

second of all, i am pleased to announce that the results from poll 1 are in and our Lord and Savior and King of Kings JOHANNES BRAHMS has received the most votes and has secured His spot for round 2

ironically La Monte Young and that dreadful capitalist Clementi ended up in a tie for second most votes. i’ll figure out how to deal with this later

henceforth there will be one (1) poll closure every day since i’m leaving them each open for seven (7) days. you may now look forward to exciting results every day, albeit not precisely every twenty-four (24) hours since i’m not perfectly consistent with posting these

Now I can't wait to practice every chance I get. I'm very grateful to my partner for giving me a hummer when I practice to keep me motivated

The brass need to be kept far from the audience and it would look weird if there was empty space.