Some discussion is necessary regarding Nationalism in music particularly as it relates to the 20th century. While it is just one of the defining characteristics of music of the period, in many ways the concept carries over into the music of most composers of our time. A composer cannot help but be enculturated into his environment thereby resulting in a language and sound that is directly related to his experience. This makes music that tends to define that time. We found this especially true in Leonard Bernstein but is also true of most composers. Between folk song, wars, experimentation, electronics, and the quick shifts of philosophical thought, it is little wonder that composers used a variety of techniques in their art music.
Using that concept as a springboard we delved into the illustrious career and music of hyper talent Leonard Bernstein. A man equally adept at speaking, composing, conducting, and performing, Bernstein's music continues to live in spite of or maybe because of its vast eclecticism and engaging style. A man devoted to reaching all people and a man whose religion was so ecumenical as to be almost without theological foundation, his music attempts to communicate with the non-believer, the Roman Catholic, the Greek orthodox, the Jewish, the Muslim, the drug user, the academic elite, the sophisticated, the uneducated, the traditionalists and the radicals. In many ways, this kind of global application is liberating, but also beyond the scope of most people. Because of our need for order and categorization, music for everyone that draws from a wide mosaic of styles, is almost beyond comprehension. Be that as it may, Bernstein's music is energetic, expressive, extreme, joyful, touching, and balances the craft of sophistication with the emotion of the masses. We listened to Chichester Psalms, Prelude Fugue and Riffs, Candide Overture, and parts of the incredible Mass. His music is distinctly American in its themes but universal in appeal. All part of the magic of Leonard Bernstein.
Moving on to Sibelius, and one must wonder why a late Romantic is included in this discussion, we discussed his symphonies, concertos, and suites. Listening to Finlandia gave us an opportunity to talk about Finnish music and nationalism in general. Sibelius' use of orchestral padding, large forms, tonality, and vibrant orchestral textures tends to set his music apart from many of his contemporaries. Among the most beautiful pieces in orchestral repertoire is the Violin Concerto by Sibelius. A special piece demonstrating his use of tonality and layering of orchestral texture. His commitment to composing music in an older model in the midst of other more progressive composers is both admirable and anachronistic. Yet he composed at such a high level, he remains influential in today's eclectic world.
A few minutes of Sibelius' 2nd symphony as it moves into the last movement, left most of us (but not all) breathless with the majesty and power of the music. Deep romantic lines melded with brass power and moments of gentle sensitivity to form some of the finest Romantic music of the 20th century. We need to discuss Ravel but it will have to be for next time!
What is your favorite Bernstein piece? Will his music withstand the test of time?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
My favorite Bernstein piece is a toss up between the Candide OVerture and West Side Story. There is so much energy and flare combined with lyricism within these works.
ReplyDeleteTo answer the idea of his music withstanding time is very difficult due to the lack of knowledge we have about what new developments will be occuring with music in the next 20, 30, or 50 years. I would still venture to say that I cannot imagine a world without Bernstein's music. So yes, I do believe it would withstand the test of time.