A New Feature

Oftentimes we see something or hear something but lack a forum for sharing that information.  For example, this weekend I attended the symphony here in Helena and saw two pieces, one I had never heard and one I was only vaguely familiar with.

The first piece was Schwanter's Percussion Concerto and featured some fancy pants percussionist (whose name escapes me).  The second movement of this is stellar and can be viewed in various fashions on YouTube.  I believe there were 17 different percussion instruments played, from the ordinary (xylophones, triangles, and bass drums), to the extraordinary (water gongs, tuned cowbells, and bow played chimes).  Since I know the usher, I was in the front row a mere fifteen from the percussionist despite my nosebleed ticket.  While this seat is usually not ideal for listening, for watching it was actually pretty awesome.

The other piece was Bartok's Concerto for Orchestra.  The piece focuses on just about every instrument at various times, but failed to grab my attention.  I reckon that had more to do with the rendition and orchestra than the actual piece, but cannot confirm.  However, as an introductory piece to orchestral sounds, it actually fits in well to the January theme of discovery.  I mean really, when was the last time you heard a double bassoon solo, followed by a thirty second interlude of violas, and then rounded off with a tuba and trombone duet (the former fitted with a mute)?

Anyhow, if you are listening to NPR and hear something, or attend a show and want to share, please do.  Not only are we learning from the music, but also from each other.  May the force be with us.