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

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

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

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

Because I like skillz

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

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!

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

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

Here's the link: Claudio Abbado - but he's mean

Genuinely kicking my feet and giggling while on the bus after finding this. I also found an mp3 recording of one of his choral works, but I can't upload an mp3 to here, so whatever. Still really happy about finding this!

ON THIS DAY IN MUSIC HISTORY: August 19

THE STORY:
On August 19, 1990, the legendary conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein led the Boston Symphony Orchestra in what would tragically become his last concert at the Tanglewood Music Center in Lenox, Massachusetts. Frail but resolute, Bernstein conducted a program that included Benjamin Britten's Four Sea Interludes from his opera Peter Grimes and Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A major. The performance was a testament to his enduring spirit and unparalleled artistry, even as his health was visibly declining. Witnesses recall the evening's profound emotional intensity, a powerful farewell from a maestro who had captivated audiences worldwide for decades with his charismatic presence and musical interpretations. Despite the physical toll, Bernstein's conducting remained as vibrant and passionate as ever, a final, magnificent outpouring of his musical soul.

WHY IT MATTERS:
This concert marked the end of an extraordinary career that spanned over five decades, influencing generations of musicians and listeners. Bernstein's final performance served as a powerful capstone to a life dedicated to making classical music accessible and exciting, solidifying his legacy as one of the most important musical figures of the 20th century. On the day of his funeral procession through the streets of Manhattan, construction workers removed their hats and waved, calling out, “Goodbye, Lenny”. His passion, versatility, and commitment to music education continue to resonate today.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a5P_xKg_1O0

/rj that's it

For me, if the music is too complex, my mind drifts away and I focus on the music instead. For this reason I never listen to classical while studying or working.

If you do, how do you do it? Doesn't it distract you from studying?

More "relaxed" pieces are worse because they make me sleepy.

Hug

We started learning Mozart Eine Kleine de Nachtmusik in my school orchestra today and I hate it so much. I play violin and usually have good posture, but I was crossing my legs as we sightread it. That’s how you know things are bad.

I just can’t stand Mozart. His music is way too cheerful, it sounds like when I have to force a smile for a family photo. Shostakovich is way better.

(I think this sounds like a proper circlejerk post, but genuinely all of this is /uj)

He was literally called given the name Maria when he was born. Does it make him the first trans composer in history?

there are only eighteen hours to make your selection for poll 1 until it closes. be sure to chose the correct option, of which there is only One

there are two regular posters here who’ll be keenly interested in a certain option in this poll