The Great Composers Podcast - a classical music podcast
This classical music podcast explores the history and lives of some of western classical music's most famous composers and musicians. Classical music is filled with very colorful personalities and riddled with drama of all kinds, from political intrigue to failed romances and everything in between. Through the course of the show, we will discuss composers and musicians from the distant past all the way to the present, beginning with the greatest, JS Bach. -Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-great-composers-podcast/id1125785164?mt=2 -Like our Facebook page too! https://www.facebook.com/thegreatcomposerspodcast/ -Want to help out? Donate to the show! https://www.gofundme.com/manage/thegreatcomposerspodcast www.kevinnordstrom.com Thank you for listening! Recently named an artaxmusic top 10 classical music podcast https://www.artaxmusic.com/top-10-classical-music-podcasts/ Bibliography for all episodes found on the website: https://www.kevinnordstrom.com/the-great-composers-podcast
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50 - Johannes Brahms pt. 15a "Tokens of Friendship" a classical music podcast
08/12/2023
50 - Johannes Brahms pt. 15a "Tokens of Friendship" a classical music podcast
Brahms pt. 15a: we return to the life narrative of our great composer, picking up where we left him in the summer of 1879 adding the finishing touches to his D major violin concerto which he had written for and with the advice of his great friend, Joseph Joachim. This was the high point of their friendship and musical partnership; but for how long would the happy feelings last, and if they didn't, how long would it take Brahms to reclaim them? Works heard in this episode in order (all by Brahms): - Hungarian Dances WoO 1 books 3-4, nos. 11-21 17. in F Sharp Minor (Andantino) 18. in D major (Molto Vivace) 19. in A Minor (Allegretto) 20. in D Minor (Poco Allegretto) 11. in D Minor (Poco Andante) 12. in D Minor (Presto) 13. in D Major (Andantino Grazioso) 14. in D Minor (Un Poco Andante) 15. in A Major (Allegretto Grazioso) 16. in G Minor (Con Moto) 21. in E Minor (Vivace) Robert Gerle - Violin Norman Shelter - Piano - Piano Concerto no. 2 in B Flat Major, Op. 83 IV. Allegretto grazioso - Un poco più presto - Symphony No. 3 in F major III. Poco allegretto - 6 Lieder and Romances, op. 93a I. Der bucklichte Fiedler II. Das Mädchen III. O süsser Mai IV. Fahr wohl! V. Der Falke VI. Beherzigung Sung by Ensemberlino Vocale https://musopen.org/music/6729-6-songs-and-romances-op-93a/ ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page!
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49 - Johannes Brahms pt. 14 "The Violin Concerto" a classical music podcast
05/25/2022
49 - Johannes Brahms pt. 14 "The Violin Concerto" a classical music podcast
In Brahms pt. 14 our pause in the narrative continues as we study the greatest of all violin concertos, that by Johannes Brahms. We will analyze the relationship between Brahms and the work's first, possibly finest performer Joseph Joachim, putting the concerto in the context of his performing life and in relation to other works in the genre. We conclude with a discussion of cadenza's, but Joachim and others, which happily allows us to revisit Fritz Kreisler, seeing how his life intersects with Joachim's and Brahms's, and discuss another of my heroes: the violinist Jascha Heifetz. Works heard in this episode in order (all by Brahms): -Concerto in D major for Violin and Orchestra, op. 77 Unmarked recording from Musopen's "European Archive" (possibly Jacques Thibaud...) 1. Allegro non troppo 2. Adagio 3. Allegretto giocoso, ma non troppo vivace https://musopen.org/music/2130-violin-concerto-in-d-major-op-77/ ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page!
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48 - Johannes Brahms pt. 13 "The Second Symphony" a classical music podcast
02/27/2022
48 - Johannes Brahms pt. 13 "The Second Symphony" a classical music podcast
In Brahms pt. 13 we pause the narrative and retrace our steps to spend some more time with the Second Symphony. A brief discussion of the symphony and an analysis of its motives will be presented, including excerpts from it and a complete recording by the Musopen Symphony. Works heard in this episode in order (all by Brahms): -Symphony no. 2 in D major op. 73 Multiple excerpts recorded by Chang Ji, violin and Kevin Nordstrom, viola 1. Allegro non troppo 2. Adagio non troppo 3. Allegretto grazioso 4. Allegro con spirito Musopen Symphony https://musopen.org/music/65-symphony-no-2-in-d-major-op-73/ ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page!
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47 - Johannes Brahms pt. 12 "Why the Light is Given" a classical music podcast
02/06/2022
47 - Johannes Brahms pt. 12 "Why the Light is Given" a classical music podcast
Pt. 12: It is early November 1876 and Brahms is in the audience as the orchestra at Carlsruhe premieres his first symphony in C minor. The concert goes better than expected and riding high on his success, Brahms performs the symphony many more times elsewhere. Its positive reception gladdened his heart and he quickly produced another symphony to celebrate, then a series of other wonderful works including the first violin sonata in G major, and the monumental violin concerto for Joseph Joachim. Works heard in this episode in order (all by Brahms): -Symphony no. 2 in D major op. 73, mvt. 3 Allegretto grazioso -Capriccio in B minor op. 76, no. 2, Luis Sarro, piano, -Sonata in G major, op. 78, mvts. 2, 3, Chang Ji (Mrs. the GCP), violin and Haeri Su, Piano ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page!
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46 - Johannes Brahms pt. 11 "A Symphony" a classical music podcast
10/11/2021
46 - Johannes Brahms pt. 11 "A Symphony" a classical music podcast
It is summer 1876. Brahms is vacationing with his friend George Henschel on the Baltic island or Rügen and finishing work on his first symphony in C minor... Works heard in this episode (all by Brahms): Symphony no. 1 in C minor op. 68 Excerpts: performed by Chang Ji, Mrs. the GCP - mvt. 1 mm. 1-2, mm. 41, mm. 42-46 - mvt. 4 mm. 1-3, mm. 12-14 ...by The GCP House Orchestra... - mvt. 4 mm. 30-38, mm. 61-78 Complete performance by the "Musopen Symphony" 1. Un Poco Sostenuto - Allegro 2. Andante sostenuto 3. Un poco Allegretto e grazioso 4. Adagio. Più andante. Allegro non troppo, ma con brio https://musopen.org/music/64-symphony-no-1-in-c-minor-op-68/ ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page!
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45 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 10 "From the Soul of the Purest Youth" a classical music podcast
08/16/2021
45 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 10 "From the Soul of the Purest Youth" a classical music podcast
It is December 1871 and Johannes Brahms has finally established permanent residence in the music loving city of Vienna. Still, his thoughts remain in Hamburg for a time as his family slowly start to drift away from him... He himself then drifted for a time, compositionally at least. He would begin his new position as Artistic Director of the Gesellschaft der Musik Freunde in Fall 1872 which made him so busy he hardly had time to compose. Except during the summers, when he would disappear from their sight, as it were, and work on his music. And what incredible music it would be: two string quartets, the Haydn Variations, the third piano quartet, plenty of music for the voice, and very nearly a first symphony. Works heard in this episode (all by Brahms): - String Quartet in C minor op. 51, no. 1 1. Allegro 2. Romanze: Poco adagio 3. Allegretto molto moderato e comodo 4. Allegro - Variations on a Theme (Said to be) by Joseph Haydn, op. 56a Theme Var. 1-3 Var. 4-6 Var. 7, 8 Finale ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page!
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44 - "Interview with Alan Walker and Daniel Vnukowski” a classical music podcast
06/22/2021
44 - "Interview with Alan Walker and Daniel Vnukowski” a classical music podcast
I am pleased to be joined during this episode by Alan Walker, celebrated author of biographies of Franz Liszt, Frederick Chopin and others, and acclaimed concert pianist Daniel Vnukowski. We discuss Liszt, Chopin, and Schumann, taking a look at their lives and music from the perspectives of biographer and performer. Vnukowski and Dr. Walker present "In the Footsteps of Chopin" on Wednesday June 23rd 7pm Eastern, a free virtual event a part of the Collingwood Music Festival's Summer Solstice Series. You can RSVP to using the link below. See you there! Music heard in this episode, performed by Daniel Vnukowski: Chopin "Raindrop" Prelude op. 28, no. 15 Chopin Sonata no. 3 in B minor op. 58, mvt. 4 finale
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43 - Johannes Brahms pt. 9 "A Lovely Dwelling Place" - Classical Music Podcast
06/07/2021
43 - Johannes Brahms pt. 9 "A Lovely Dwelling Place" - Classical Music Podcast
Ep. 43 – It is Good Friday, April 10, 1868 in Bremen and Brahms has just finished giving the premiere of his German Requiem. It is a complete triumph but one not celebrated with wild applause, the work is too grave for that. Instead, attendees of the premiere listened with glad hearts and in reverence, awe really of the work’s creator. Thus, Johannes Brahms became an internationally recognized composer of considerable importance and some measure of celebrity. Works heard in this episode (all by Brahms): -Requiem mvt. 4 "How Lovely is They Dwelling Place" mvt. 5 "And Ye Now are Sorrowful" -Wiegenlied op. 49 no. 4 -Botschaft op. 47 no. 1 -Hungarian dance 1-10 ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page!
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42b - Johannes Brahms pt. 8 "The Scent of Lilac" - Classical Music Podcast
03/22/2021
42b - Johannes Brahms pt. 8 "The Scent of Lilac" - Classical Music Podcast
Ep 42(b) - It is early 1865. Brahms's mother has just passed away. Filled with emotion he grudgingly moves from winter to spring, entering a long period of deep and private mourning during which he would retreat into himself for a time in order to gather his thoughts and energies, and orient them toward a grand act of artistic creation in which he would immortalize his beloved mother and through which his artist soul would be elevated and ennobled and made pure. ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! Share with your friends! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! Works heard in this episode (all by Brahms): Horn Trio in E-flat mvt. 3 - Adagio Mesto mvt. 1 - Andante mvt. 2 - Scherzo (Allegro) mvt. 4 - Allegro con brio German Requiem pt. 1 "Blessed are they that Mourn" (In English translation!)
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42a - Johannes Brahms pt. 8 "The Scent of Lilac" - Classical Music Podcast
02/08/2021
42a - Johannes Brahms pt. 8 "The Scent of Lilac" - Classical Music Podcast
Ep. 42(a) - It is late November 1862. We find Johannes Brahms in Vienna making a great success of himself for once but reeling from a devastating blow given him by the musical establishment of Hamburg. He will try to pick himself up and carry on with his work, compartmentalizing the tenderness he felt for one place from the bitterness for the other so that he might do so. And then further troubles to deal with: family strife and division that will make his life more difficult than ever; a loss that will wrench his heart and cause him the greatest pain, one for which tears aplenty would not be an adequate response but rather, music; tones and song in memoriam of a cherished loved one on a grand scale. --------------- Try MuseScore 3.6! Wonderful music notation software, easy to use, and free without limitations. ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! Works heard in this episode (all by Brahms): 1. String Sextet in G major op. 36 mvt. 1, Allegro non troppo 2. 9 Lieder and Songs op. 32 no. 9 "Wie bist du, meine Königin" 3-5. String Sextet in G major op. 36 mvts. 2-4, Scherzo, Poco Adagio, Poco Allegro 6, 7. Piano Quintet in f minor op. 34 mvts. 2, 3, Andante, un poco Adagio, Scherzo 8. "Horn" Trio in E-flat major op. 40 mvt. 3 (beginning), Adagio Mesto
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41 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 7 "Vignettes and Vienna" - Classical Music Podcast
11/23/2020
41 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 7 "Vignettes and Vienna" - Classical Music Podcast
In Ep. 41 Johannes Brahms continues his toil, conducing the ladies' choir, playing concerts, and composing; working to build a life and career brick by brick with the sweat of his brow and the help of his friends. He hoped for a permanent position in Hamburg that would lead to a settled, traditional life and some financial security. Brahms's efforts were geared toward turning hope into reality, but it remained to be seen whether the music masters of Hamburg would smooth his way or block it. If Brahms found a professional and therefore personal dead end in Hamburg where else might he go? Could another city offer him the life he was seeking? ---------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! Works heard in this episode, all by Brahms: - Liebeslieder-Walzer, op. 52 nos. 1-18 Ensemberlino Vocale https://musopen.org/music/6684-liebeslieder-waltzes-op-52/ Translations - Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24, var. 23-25 and Fugue. Pierre Feraux, piano https://archive.org/details/onclassical-OC17V - Piano Quartet no. 1 in G minor op. 25, mvt. 2 Intermezzo Allegro ma non tropo, mvt. 4 Rondo alla Zingarese. Chang Ji, violin
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40 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 6 "Warring With the Wizard of Weimar" - Classical Music Podcast
08/03/2020
40 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 6 "Warring With the Wizard of Weimar" - Classical Music Podcast
In ep. 40 we find Johannes Brahms struggling to recover and learn from the defeat of his D minor Piano Concerto at Leipzig's Gewandhaus in January 1859. Despite nearing mastery in his craft and the untiring support of his friends he was yet unable to find a consistently appreciative audience. Success and failure, ridicule and praise, applause and hissing followed Brahms wherever he and his music went. By the Spring of 1860 his frustration and anger had grown so much that he lashed out at one of the greatest musical personalities of the age, Franz Liszt, in the most unlikely way and with pitiful results. ---------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! Works heard in this episode, by Brahms unless otherwise noted: 1. Three Secular Songs for Choir, "Abendständchen" (Evening Serenade) Op. 42 no. 1. "...to let the light of his music shine through the darkness around him" from the intro. is my paraphrase of the last line of this song. 2. Three Secular Songs for Choir, "Darthulas Grabesgesang" (Darthulas Grave Song) op. 42 no. 3 3. Three Secular Songs for Choir, "Vineta" (Vineta) op. 42 no. 2 ( 1-3 performed by Ensemberlino Vocale, ) 4. String Sextet in B-flat Major op. 18 mvt. 3 Scherzo 5. String Sextet in B-flat Major op. 18 mvt. 4 Rondo: Poco allegretto e grazioso 6, cont. 7, 8. Sonata in B Minor for Solo Piano, S. 178 by Franz Liszt wonderfully played by Jean Dubé, piano https://musopen.org/music/43159-piano-sonata-in-b-minor-s-178/
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39 - Rebecca Smithorn and The National Philharmonic's YouTube Series "Composers in Crisis"
07/17/2020
39 - Rebecca Smithorn and The National Philharmonic's YouTube Series "Composers in Crisis"
I'm pleased to welcome to the show Rebecca Smithorn, cover conductor and lecturer with the National Philharmonic. Rebecca is host of the NatPhil's YouTube series "Composers in Crisis" which takes a look at composers whose lives and art were transformed by times of global crisis. In our interview we talk about several composers in crisis: Beethoven, Ravel, Ruth Crawford-Seeger, John Corigliano, Undine Smith Moore, and a good ol' good one, Louis Armstrong, who Duke Ellington said was "Born poor, died rich, and never hurt anyone in between." "Composers in Crisis" --------------- Try nkoda for free! All the digital sheet music you could ever need right on one app. I use it for my own practice, in lessons, and when I just want something fun to play on the piano or guitar! ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! Works heard in this episode: Ravel - "Le Tombeau de Couperin" mvt. 1, Prelude, played by Janet Seitzer mvt. 6, Toccata
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38 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 5 "Gordian Knots" - Classical Music Podcast
05/18/2020
38 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 5 "Gordian Knots" - Classical Music Podcast
In Ep. 38 we pick up with Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann in the weeks following Robert Schumann's death in July 1856, trying to make sense of their relationship and love. They have a crucial, incredibly difficult decision to make and its consequences will color the rest of their lives. All the while, Brahms struggles to complete his first piano concerto in d minor. --------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! Works heard in this episode (all by Brahms): 1. Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in D minor, op. 15, mvt. 1 2. Serenade no. 1 in D major, op. 11, mvt. 2 Scherzo - Allegro non troppo 3. Serenade no. 1 in D major, op. 11, mvt. 3 - Adagio non troppo 4. Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in D minor, op. 15, mvt. 2 5. Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in D minor, op. 15, mvt. 3 https://archive.org/details/BrahmsPianoConcertoNo.1-schnabel
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37 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 4 "Waiting in the Wings" - Classical Music Podcast
03/22/2020
37 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 4 "Waiting in the Wings" - Classical Music Podcast
Stay healthy and well! Ep. 37 – In late 1853, having impressed important musicians across Germany, especially Robert and Clara Schumann, Johannes Brahms planned for the publication of his first opuses. His star was rising in the musical world and he had much to be proud of, but a terrible tragedy loomed on the horizon which threatened to derail his career and set his life down yet another new though unexpected path. Very special thank you to... Michael Calabris! https://www.soundcloud.com/michaelcalabris --------------- Try nkoda for free! All the digital sheet music you could ever need right on one app. I use it for my own practice, in lessons, and when I just want something fun to play on the piano or guitar! ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! Works heard in this episode (all by Brahms unless otherwise noted): Sonata in C major op. 1, mvt. 3 Scherzo Scherzo op. 4 - Natsumi Kataoka Sonata in C major op. 1, mvt. 4 Robert Schumann op. 6 mvts. 1-6 Clara Schumann, Scherzo op. 14 no. 2 - Luis Sarro Robert Schumann, Carnaval op. 9 “Chiarina” 4 Ballads, op. 10 no. 1 “Edward” "Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann" op. 9 var. 1-3 Clara Schumann "Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann" op. 20 var. 3 Robert Schumann op. 12 mvt. 1 Des Abends, 3. Warum? Robert Schumann Piano Quintet in E-flat major, op. 44, mvt. 2 --------------- Michael Calabris, “Meditation (According to Byzantine Modes)” for solo organ
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36 - "Antonio Stradivari, and the Violin Makers of Cremona" a Yuletide Special - Classical Music Podcast
12/26/2019
36 - "Antonio Stradivari, and the Violin Makers of Cremona" a Yuletide Special - Classical Music Podcast
In this special episode "Antonio Stradivari, and the Violin Makers of Cremona" we explore the lives of Cremona's greatest violin makers. Cremona's violin making tradition began with Andrea Amati in the mid-16th century, and lasted until the death of Giuseppe Guarneri "del Gesù" some two hundred years later. In between these two men came many remarkable makers from the Amati and Guarneri families, but the greatest of them all was Antonio Stradivari who rose far above his rivals to become the most celebrated violin maker of all time. --------------- Try nkoda! All the digital sheet music you could ever need right on one app. I use it for my own practice, in lessons, and when I just want something fun to play on the piano or guitar! ----------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! ----------------- All music heard in this episode is by Antonio Vivaldi: Concerto for 4 violins in B minor mvts. 1-4 (Modena Chamber Orchestra) Concerto in F minor “Winter” for violin, strings, and continuo mvts. 1-3(MCO) Concerto in D minor RV 565 (selections) (MCO) Concerto for Two Violins in A minor, RV 522 mvts. 1-3 ------------------------------ Suggested reading and a few resources: - "The Violin-Makers of the Guarneri Family" by W. Henry Hill, Arthur F. Hill, and Alfred Ebsworth Hill. Dover pub. - "Antonio Stradivari, His Life & Work" by W. Henry Hill, Arthur F. Hill, and Alfred E. Hill. Dover pub. - "Stradivari's Genius" by Toby Faber. Random House - "The Violin, a Social History of the World's Most Versatile Instrument" by David Schoenbaum. W.W. Norton and Company - https://www.roger-hargrave.de/Seiten/english/Bibliothek/Bibliothek.htm - - -
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35 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 3 "New Germans and New Paths" - Classical Music Podcast
12/16/2019
35 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 3 "New Germans and New Paths" - Classical Music Podcast
Ep. 35 - In April 1853, Johannes Brahms left Hamburg with the Hungarian violinist Eduard Reményi for a short concert tour of North German towns. After performing in small venues and for small crowds to great success, the duo decided to try their luck in Hanover. There they met one of the most important musicians of the day, who sent them visit another, and yet another... --------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! ----------------- Music in this episode (all by Brahms unless otherwise noted): 1. Sonata in C major op. 1, mvt. 1, Allegro 2. Hungarian Dance no 5, Fritz Kreisler and Carl Lamson 3-5. "Eine Faust Symphonie" fragments of mvt. 1 - Faust, by Franz Liszt 6. Hungarian Dance no. 2, Andreas Pfaul, piano 7. Sonata in C major op. 1, mvt. 3 Scherzo (A section) 8. FAE Sonata, mvt. 3, Scherzo, Oliver Colbenston violin
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34 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 2 "Summer Idylls" - Classical Music Podcast
11/11/2019
34 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 2 "Summer Idylls" - Classical Music Podcast
In Ep. 34 we see Johannes Brahms complete his adolescence and become a young adult. Along the way he is tested severely, leading a double life as a serious music student by day and dance hall pianist by night. Delicate and prone to migraines as a youth, this taxing work nearly ruined Johannes's physical and mental health. But as always, in times of great need a savior came his way and his health was repaired. With his strength renewed, Brahms was ready to confront the world as a professional musician and composer. It would not be easy for him at first... --------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! ----------------- Music heard in this episode (all by Brahms): Sixteen Waltzes of op. 39! In order of appearance #’s 1, 2, 10, 6, 3, 11, 12, 4, 5, 15, 16 performed beautifully by Martha Goldstein. Op. 1, Sonata for Solo Piano in C major, mvt. 1
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33 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 1 "A Cup Half Full" - Classical Music Podcast
10/07/2019
33 - Johannes Brahms, pt. 1 "A Cup Half Full" - Classical Music Podcast
In Ep. 33, The Life of Johannes Brahms, pt. 1 "A Cup Half Full" we meet the great composer's father, Johann Jakob Brahms. Jakob was a versatile musician who could play several instruments. He wasn't the most talented of musicians, but he was determined to succeed. In 1826 he went to Hamburg and began working as a lowly beer-fiddler. After establishing himself, he took every job he could get and slowly made his way up the professional ladder... --------------- Subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-star review! download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! ----------------- Music heard in this episode (all by Brahms unless otherwise noted): 1. Serenade in D major op. 11, mvt. 1 2. The Pinzauger Waltz 3. Serenade in D major op. 11, mvt. 4 - Minuet 1 &2 4. Serenade in D major op. 11, mvt. 5 - Scherzo 5. Serenade in D major op. 11, mvt. 6 - Rondo
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32 - Johannes Brahms, "Introduction: A Brahms Rhapsody" - Classical Music Podcast
09/30/2019
32 - Johannes Brahms, "Introduction: A Brahms Rhapsody" - Classical Music Podcast
In this introduction to the life of Johannes Brahms we rhapsodize on key themes in the great composer's life, and begin to sketch his unique position in the history of music. ---------------- Try nkoda for free! They have all the digital sheet music you could ever need right on one app. Find it in your favorite app store. I use nkoda for my own practice, in lessons, and just for fun when I want to dig up some nice music for piano or guitar! When you support our sponsors you support the show! ----------------- Subscribe and give a 5-star review on iTunes! Download our app! Visit and like our Facebook page! ----------------- Music heard in this episode (all by Brahms): 1. Intermezzo in B-flat minor, op. 117 no. 2 2. Serenade in D major op. 11, mvt. 1
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31 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 8 "Epilogue: Bach's in the Future"
06/26/2019
31 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 8 "Epilogue: Bach's in the Future"
Ep. 31 sees our Bach saga come to an end. We meet Sebastian Bach's grandson, Wilhelm Friedrich Ernst, the last musician of his line. Then we see how the family legacy was carried on by those who were Bach's in spirit but not name. Finally, we follow a few members of the family as they spread to other parts of Europe and then America. Music heard in this episode: (By J.S. Bach) 1. Mass in B minor: Sanctus - Osanna in excelsis 2. Cantata: Jesu, der du meine Seele, BWV 78 - Chorale: Herr, ich glaube, hilf mir Schwachen 3. Mass in B minor: Gloria The App! Like our Facebook page! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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30 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 7 "John Christian, a Bach in London"
06/19/2019
30 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 7 "John Christian, a Bach in London"
In Ep. 30, we see Johann Christian Bach round out his time in Italy by planning a new trip to London. While in London, he became immensely famous and was even given a position in the royal household of King George III and his Queen, Charlotte. Johann Christian, or as he preferred to be called, John, enjoyed a swift rise to fame. It lasted for nearly two decades, but as tastes began to change his demise came just as fast. Unable to stomach the loss of his glory, John died a broken man, mourned only by his wife and few remaining friends. The App! Music heard in this episode: (All composed by J.C. Bach unless otherwise noted) 1. Symphony in E-flat major, op. 3, no. 4, mvt. 1 2. Symphony in E-flat major, op. 3, no. 4, mvt. 1 cont. 3. Sonata for two keyboards in G major, op. 15, no. 5 4. Twelve Variations on "Ah vous dirai-je, Maman", theme, by W.A. Mozart 5. Twelve Variations on "Ah vous dirai-je, Maman", finale, by W.A. Mozart 6. Orfeo, Minuet, by Christoph Gluck 7. Symphony in G minor, op. 6, no. 6, mvt. 1 For all things GCP Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! Like our Facebook page too! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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29 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 6 "Giovanni Christiano, a Bach in Italy"
05/24/2019
29 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 6 "Giovanni Christiano, a Bach in Italy"
In Ep. 29 we follow the Great Bach's youngest son, Johann Christian born 1735, from his childhood to the early years of his maturity. Christian was one of the most brilliant and successful musicians the Bach family ever produced and he achieved a level of fame none of them ever did during their lifetimes. Christian was unique in his family and never felt compelled to adhere to the traditions of old. He moved beyond the old compositional styles of his father, and even moved beyond the confines of the Germanic homeland, eventually finding his way to Milan, Italy and great fame. Our App! Music heard in this episode: (All composed by J.C. Bach) 1. Symphony in E-flat major op. 18 no. 1, mvt. 1 2. Symphony in G minor op. 6 no. 6, mvt. 2 (opening) 3. Keyboard Sonata in D major op. 5 no. 2, mvt. 1 4. Symphony in E-flat major op. 18 no. 1, mvt. 3 5. Symphony in G minor op. 6 no. 6, mvt. 2 (cont.) 6. Symphony in G minor op. 6 no. 6, mvt. 3
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28 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 5 "Anna Magdalena"
03/21/2019
28 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 5 "Anna Magdalena"
In Ep. 28, we take a closer look at the life of Anna Magdalena Wilcke, beloved second wife of Sebastian Bach. Anna came from a long line of musicians, and was an accomplished musician herself. At the age of 20, or possibly sooner, she attained a coveted position as soprano in the Cöthen Capelle then under Sebastian's direction, who often featured her as a soloist. After their marriage in 1721 and subsequent move to Leipzig, she was a key player in the Bach family business, teaching students, copying music, making sure everyone was practicing, and generally keeping things in good working order. She was also the step-mother of Bach’s two famous sons by Maria Barbara, Friedemann and Emanuel, seeing them through difficult adolescent years, and mother to one of the most brilliant and influential composers of the 18th century, Johann Christian Bach, who was worshipped by no less a figure than Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Our App! Music heard in this episode: Organ Trio Sonata in G major, BWV 530, mvt. 1, arr. Michael Way Cantata No.51 - I. Jauchzet Gott in allen Landen.2 Brandenburg Concerto no. 4 in G major, BWV 1049, Presto Partita no. 5 in G major, BWV 829, mvt. 6 Passapied, arr. Michael Way Ice run zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639, arr. Michael Way Organ Trio Sonata in G major, BWV 530, mvt. 3, arr. Michael Way Tracks 1, 4, 5, 6 Stephen Nordstrom - Violin Kevin Nordstrom - Viola Michael Way - Cello, arranger
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27 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 4 "Carl Philipp Emanuel and the Prussian Blues"
01/22/2019
27 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 4 "Carl Philipp Emanuel and the Prussian Blues"
In Ep. 27, The Lives of Some Other Bachs, pt. 4 “Carl Philipp Emanuel and the Prussian Blues” we see Emanuel Bach suffer many more years in service to King Frederick the Great of Prussia, unable to find employment elsewhere. His perpetual good cheer served him well during these troubled years and he continued to compose and make a success of himself as before. Following the Third Silesian War from 1756-1763, Emanuel had enough of royal service and was determined to leave Berlin. He set his sights on Hamburg, where his godfather Georg Philipp Telemann was music director. Luckily, Emanuel would be Telemann’s successor, and took over his new post in 1768. He spent the rest of his life there and passed away in 1788 knowing that his life had been a success from beginning to end. Our App! Music heard in this episode: 1. B minor sonata, H. 245 beginning of mvt. 3 (played by me) 2. Solfegio in C minor, organ version - Dick Koomans 3. D major symphony H. 663 mvts. 1,2,3 4. Fantasia in F-sharp minor H. 300 - Joan Benson ---------------- For all things GCP Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! The App! Like our Facebook page! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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26 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 3 "Carl Philipp Emanuel and All the King's Men"
12/18/2018
26 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 3 "Carl Philipp Emanuel and All the King's Men"
In Ep. 26 - The Lives of Some Other Bachs, pt. 3 "Carl Philipp Emanuel and All the King's Men" we will meet the Great Bach's second son, Carl Phillip Emanuel. Despite having much the same upbringing, Emanuel managed to make a success of himself while Friedemann did not. Independent, friendly, and worldly wise, Emanuel left his father's home ready to take on the world, and found himself in the service of one of the most eccentric rulers of the age. Our App! Music heard during this episode: (By CPE Bach unless otherwise noted) Symphony in C major, complete, H. 659 Sonata for Solo Flute in A minor, mvt. 1 H. 562 – Marcos Granados 12 Variations on “The Follies of Spain” H. 263 – Stefano Ligoratti The King’s subject from the Musical Offering (JS Bach) Flute Concerto in G Major, mvt. 1, H. 445 ---------------- For all things GCP Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! The App! Like our Facebook page! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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25 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 2 "Wilhelm Friedemann, The Golden Child"
11/23/2018
25 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 2 "Wilhelm Friedemann, The Golden Child"
In Ep. 25, The Lives of Some Other Bachs, pt. 2 "Wilhelm Friedemann, The Golden Child" we explore the life of Sebastian Bach's eldest son, Friedemann (1710-1784). While he was alive, Sebastian did everything he could to support Friedemann's career. He wrote music for him, gave him instruction manuals, and even wrote at least one job application letter. For a time, it seemed that Friedemann's life was generally headed in the right direction. He was comfortably employed and his fame as a performer and composer was growing. But once the Great Bach died, his golden child took a turn for the worse and what promised to be a prosperous life slowly unraveled. Extraordinary talent—maybe even genius—was not enough to keep Friedemann from alienating himself from his peers and making enemies at every stop along his progress. Though neither were capable of realizing it, the love and affection Sebastian showered on his beloved Friedemann proved to be a fatal gift. The App! Music heard in this episode is by Wilhelm Friedemann unless otherwise noted. 1. Sinfonia in d minor F. 65, complete 2. Prelude no. 1 in C major, WTC book 1 3. "Erbarme dich, mein Gott" (Have mercy, my God) from The St. Mathew Passion BWV 244, by JS Bach 4. Organ Sonata BWV 525, by JS Bach 5. Prelude (fugue sold separately) in G major BWV 541, by JS Bach 6. Polonaise in E-flat for harpsichord F. 12 no. 5 (Sylvia Kind) 7. Polonaise in d minor for harpsichord F. 12 no. 4 (Sylvia Kind) 8. Duo for two violas in G major, F. 60 mvt. 2 "Lamento" played by me and one of my students ---------------- For all things GCP Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! The App! Like our Facebook page! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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24 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 1 "The Grapes of the Vine"
11/09/2018
24 - Some Other Bachs, pt. 1 "The Grapes of the Vine"
In Ep. 24 "The Grapes of the Vine" we will follow the Bach family tree from its founding member, Veit Bach, all the way down to JS Bach and his first born son Wilhelm Friedemann. For nearly three centuries, the Bach's produced musician after musician. All were highly skilled in their craft and some became quite famous. Not only did JS Bach's children have as a father the greatest musician of all time, but they were just the latest fruit of a long musical vine. The GCP App! Music in this episode: 1. BWV 50 - “Non ist das Heil und die Kraft “ (some think that this may not be by Bach, but JE Gardiner thinks it is and so do I! Anyways it’s a great piece) Unless otherwise noted, the following are chorales from BWV 244, the “St. Mathew Passion” their number in the score is listed alongside. 2. “Mir hat die Welt trüglich Gerlicht” no. 32 3. “Ja nicht auf das fest” (a choral interlude during a recit. not a chorale...) no. 4 4. “Ich bin’s, Ich solte büßen” no. 10 5. “Erkenne mich, mein Hüter” no. 15 6. “Ich will hier bei der stehen” no. 17 7. “Herzliebster Jesu, was hast du verbrochen” no. 3 8. “Was mein Gott will, das g’scheh allzeit” no. 25 9. Final Chorus “Wir setzen uns mit Tränen neider” no. 68 ---------------- For all things GCP Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! The App! Like our Facebook page! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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23 - Judith Chernaik and her book "Schumann: the Faces and the Masks"
10/01/2018
23 - Judith Chernaik and her book "Schumann: the Faces and the Masks"
In Ep. 23 we welcome another very special guest, Judith Chernaik, author of the book “Schumann: the Faces and the Masks”. She and I had an in-depth discussion about her book, a brilliant telling of the tragic and beautiful story that is the life of Robert Schumann. Be sure to pick up her book wherever books are sold and at the link below! It is well worth it. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/546890/schumann-by-judith-chernaik/ Enjoy! Music in this episode: Schumann - Carnaval op. 9 -Préambule(Charles Rosen) -Marche des “Davidsbündler” contres les Philistins (Guiomar Novaes) ---------------- For all things GCP Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! The App! Like our Facebook page! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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22 - Suzanne Bona...and her show "Sunday Baroque"
09/24/2018
22 - Suzanne Bona...and her show "Sunday Baroque"
In Ep. 22 I am pleased to bring you a very special guest, Suzanne Bona, host of the syndicated radio program "Sunday Baroque". We met up at WGUC studios in downtown Cincinnati and enjoyed a wide ranging discussion about her show, her life, and lots of interesting musical things! She was also kind enough to let us hear a sample of her program at about 45 minutes in, a special treat indeed. Be sure to listen to Suzanne's show "Sunday Baroque" on your local radio station every Sunday morning. For more information, visit her website: Music: -Bach Double Violin concerto in D minor mvt. 3 -Suzanne's show! -Vivaldi Double Violin concerto in A minor ---------------- For all things GCP Please rate, review, and subscribe on iTunes! The App! Like our Facebook page! A complete bibliography for all episodes can be found on my website: www.kevinnordstrom.com
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