An Epic Cello Concerto

     The Shostakovich cello concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major is certainly one of the greatest cello concertos of all time. The incredibly epic and virtuosic melodies of this composition really excites both the performer and the listener. The composer Dmitri Shostakovich is one of the greatest Russian composers of all time (and one of my favorite classical composers). This particular cello concerto was composed for Shostakovich's very close friend and world-renowned cellist, Mstislav Rostropovich (cellist performing in the YouTube video attached). My little brother has been playing the cello for almost two years now and he hopes to one day perform this piece with an orchestra! He told me yesterday that this is his favorite cello concerto because some parts of the composition sounds like the Star Wars Imperial March.

Hope everyone has a productive and amazing spring break! :)

Hello, Spring!

     This glorious composition by the famous composer, Antonio Vivaldi is definitely on my list of favorite classical works!  This piece is a part of a set of four Violin concertos (concertos are musical compositions for a solo performer accompanied by an orchestra or some type of musical accompaniment). Each concerto represents a different season, of course, I picked the first concerto which is called, "La primavera" or "Spring." The first concerto certainly captures the wonderful baroque era essence of intricate details and complex harmonies. This monumental work is definitely an epic tale that has no words, but conveys  a lot of varying emotions to its listener. This composition is quite a lovely length of just a little over 41 mins.  Once again, this will serve as great background music for midterms week!

Let me know your thoughts on this piece!

~Kiana

A March for March

     A recent discovery of mine has been Franz Schubert's Marche Militaire Op. 51/1. Franz Schubert was another one of the most influential and brilliant composers in the classical genre. His compositions ranged from sacred music, operas, chamber music, solo works, and symphonies. This piece Marche Militaire Op. 51 No.1  is certainly one of his most majestic and well-known works.  Many composers would quote certain snippets from this composition to use within their own. I certainly believe this piece epitomizes the very grandiose and stately character of the aristocrats and noble's lifestyle during the 18th century.

I certainly recommend putting this monumental composition on your study time playlist. I believe the joyous melodies and noble character of the piece help to deliver motivation and inspiration.

Hope you enjoy it!