Close exposure to live music, attainable, touchable, reachable, createable by mere mortals (vs the infinitude of canned “perfection” in our pocket) — this is key.
“I wonder how many tiny people became musicians that day. All it took was hearing Beethoven on a CD in 1993 to send chills up my little spine. Years later I became a 1st chair trumpet player, then guitar player and singer eventually winning a scholarship to college for my efforts. Music unlocks the soul, and strengthens the mind. Hope you all enjoyed it as much as I.”
“For me it was watching at a very young age the KS State Univ marching band with my toes touching the 50-yard line. I knew in an instant and it has since been a lifelong pursuit and joy.”
“Bolero” is a classical orchestral piece composed by the French composer Maurice Ravel. It was originally composed as a ballet score commissioned by Russian dancer and choreographer Ida Rubinstein and premiered in 1928 in Paris. However, “Bolero” is now more commonly performed as a standalone orchestral work.
The piece is characterized by its repetitive and hypnotic rhythm, which gradually builds in intensity and volume throughout its duration. It features a simple, yet highly effective, melodic motif that is repeated and varied across different sections of the orchestra. The orchestration includes a wide range of instruments, with the snare drum playing a prominent role in maintaining the rhythmic pulse.
“Bolero” is often considered one of Ravel’s most famous compositions and has become a staple of the classical music repertoire. Its distinctive and evocative sound has led to its frequent use in film soundtracks, television commercials, and other forms of popular media.
Despite its initial mixed reception by critics, “Bolero” has since gained widespread acclaim and popularity, admired for its masterful orchestration, hypnotic rhythm, and dramatic crescendo. It remains a beloved and iconic work in the world of classical music.