A Gift from the Magi

January 6, 2016 at 10:30 am

Today Christians celebrate the Epiphany, when the Wise Men gave their gifts to Jesus. It’s the official close of the Christmas season, and a principal feast of the church. There are a number of carols devoted to the Magi – namely, “We Three Kings” and “The First Nowell.” But I thought we’d listen to something different as we move away from the big holidays.

Musically speaking, Albert Ketèlbey is the English predecessor of Leroy Anderson. His importance is underplayed because his most popular compositions tend to fall into the category of “light” music; however, his sound and style permeate English music, especially of film, to this day. His best-loved works painted exotic pictures for English listeners, and were a way for the average joe and jane to travel to distant lands through their ears.

So, since the Magi came from Persia, here is a delightful little piece, “In a Persian Market.”

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March to the Mall?

December 21, 2015 at 10:30 am

If your holiday traditions include Christmas presents, consider this a warning – you’ve only got a few more days to get your shopping done! Don’t delay; the traffic only gets worse and you’re more likely to make a bad decision if you shop at the last minute.

Here’s the March of the Toys to get you moving. It began as part of an operetta by Victor Herbert, which was later adapted into a Disney film. The music has been a staple for the holidays ever since! It might provide the inspiration you need to find those last few presents.

And, if you’re going to have a holiday piece stuck in your head while you shop, it may as well be this one.

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Star Wars!

December 18, 2015 at 10:30 am

Need I say more?

John Williams is easily the most-performed living composer. In Art Music circles, you may see people turning their noses up at his music. Ignore those people. They are just jealous that there is an Art Music composer out there who is actually getting some attention. The truth of the matter is, you can’t get to where John Williams is without being awesome. So here’s the most popular and influential composer of our time, and his glorious music!

And here’s to the most popular and influential epic of our time!

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