Why I think this matters

For the past couple centuries, classical music has been held up as the “best” music. Unfortunately, because of the “snooty” atmosphere brought about by this notion, it has left many people uninterested or feeling like they don’t belong at a classical music concert. I believe people should try listening to Western classical music, not because it is “better” than any other music, but because it is an enjoyable experience that they might find they like if they would only give it a try. And if they don’t like it that’s fine too! All I ask if for people to keep an open mind and they might discover they like a certain piece of style of Western classical music.

A Two-Fold Approach

How do we go about this? I believe it starts with education. Education on both sides of the spectrum. Those that know little to nothing about Western classical music and those that regularly attend classical music concerts. For those that simply don’t know much, I create videos about concepts relating to Western classical music that introduce the kind of jargon those of us in the world take for granted. Things like Symphony, Concerto, Allegro (and other Italian terms), etc.

I also believe the burden of acceptance should not rest on the shoulders of those who don’t know a lot about Western classical music. Although there are certainly many welcoming concert-goers there are those that still uphold the “sacredness” of traditions they may know little about. And someone sneering at a newcomer for clapping between movements is a turn-off that no amount of practical education can fix. Therefore, it is my goal to also create educational videos catered to the regular concert goer that examine the history of some of our “sacred” concert hall traditions such as sitting in silence, clapping between movements, etc. It is my hope that in taking the mystery away from these traditions, the regular concert-goer will be more open and accepting of those that may not understand these traditions and/or be ready to do away with some traditions altogether.

Sample Educational Videos

Below is a sample video designed for someone new to Western classical music titled “What is a Symphony?”

Video Program Notes

Written program notes are great, and absolutely have their place. But can we really expect many people to purchase tickets to a concert when they know nothing about the music? This is where my second type of video comes in. These are designed for people to learn about a piece before they enter the concert hall to pique their interest in buying a ticket and attending the concert. Below is a video aimed at a general audience discussing Beethoven’s seventh symphony. Although this is a canonical piece, there is also an opportunity for videos about unknown pieces and composers to try and draw regular attenders to concerts without the pull of a canonical headliner.

Are you an administrator of a performing arts organization?

If you like the videos I make, I can make ones catered to the specific needs of your organization. Click the link below to read about customization options and pricing for video program notes. If you are interested in general education videos, contact me for more information.

YouTube

For more sample videos, check out my YouTube channel where I talk about music in media.