Context

In my "music appreciation" course at the local community college, I have attempted to stress to my students the fact that everything we are listening to is being heard out of its intended context. We've actually heard no "Gregorian" chant as I feel it must be experienced in its natural setting (which would be at the monastery less than five miles south of our classroom). Symphonies, of course, are written for concert halls; chamber music for smaller venues (although often heard in spaces the composers wouldn't have dreamed of).  And opera? It is as ridiculous to listen to a recording of La Boheme as it is to sit in a classroom, reading and analyzing Hamlet.

It's all about context: the ability to experience the art form on its "home court." Zachary Wolfe writes of the HD opera phenomenon in today's New York Times.  Also in today's Times, James Oestreich writes of the "Spring for Music" festival going on now at Carnegie Hall.  (This was previously commented upon in this blog.)

Focusing on New York, my friend and musical colleague, Peg Cornils, is presenting another recital at Carnegie's Weill Recital Hall on May 18. How I wish I could attend!

Across the country, critics in southern California are talking about Simon Rattle, Alan Gilbert, and the ubiquitous Gustavo Dudamel.  It's probably time for me to let up on the "Dude," especially since I'm stealing programing ideas from him...AND here is a considerably interesting report of a Pacific Symphony program that invited local amateurs (first come-first served, no audition required!) to join the pros in a side-by-side performance of Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet ballet.  Gotta love Carl St. Clair.

I am currently compiling information toward determining the 2012-13 "Huey" Awards for originality in orchestral programing (in Eastern Iowa).  I am please to note that--unlike last year--there are two orchestras in the running!  Unfortunately one orchestra is featuring a season full of mostly dead white European males and another is retreading works from its most recent past and definitely "selling out" its patrons relative to the musical world outside its sphere of influence. Stay tuned.