Contrary to my usual habit, I feel the need to make a political statement today. In light of the current developments in Eastern Europe, and for the time being, I cannot imagine and will refrain from any further cooperation with Russian state institutions—such as the Moscow Conservatory, Gnesin Academy of Music, State Institute for Art Studies, and Saint Petersburg State Conservatory. This explicitly applies to institutional collaboration and projects realised with governmental funds from the Russian state and Ministry of Culture. It does not apply to relationships with individuals regardless of their affiliation, which I absolutely intend to continue, as I feel that social cohesion and exchange on a personal level is necessary more than ever at the moment. To all my dear Russian colleagues: I hope for your understanding, while I express my heartfelt support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
Female Composers in Music Theory Classes
I compiled a playlist of music by female composers which I have used with great benefit as examples and exercises in my music theory classes. Most of the pieces turned out easy to integrate into the curriculum and suited my topics and purposes very well. Here is a list of fine compositions ranging from Maddalena Casulana to Sofiya Gubaidulina. Please let me know if you think something is missing or should be included for whatever reason.
Music for my Children
After my previous attempts to compose music for my children had all turned out too complicated, I tried again and produced a little song without words, dedicated to my daughter and son. It is to be performed on their respective instruments, harp or guitar. Also, there is a version for piano. If you think it might suit your children or pupils as well, feel free to get hold of it! #musicforchildren
Beach’s Beautiful Ballade
Scriabin Turns 150
This is a somewhat belated Aleksandr Scriabin birthday post, expressing my gratitute for all those rewarding experiences with his music, and excitement to take part in a conference in Reading later this year in honour of his 150th anniversary. More news to follow! For now, here’s Konstantin Balmont‘s 1925 poem Zvukovoy zazïv (Call of Sound):
He felt through symphonies of light.
He appealed to fuse into one floating temple –
Touches, sounds, incense,
And processions, with dances as a sign,
The whole sunshine, the fire of flowers and summer,
The whole lunar prophecy through the stars,
Thunders here, and a small splutter there,
The banter of a musical sunrise.
Waking up in heaven while dreaming on earth.
Spreading whirlwinds of sparks in pierced dust,
In the fire of sacrifice he was tireless.
And he danced in a fervent funnel,
Until he woke to death with twinkle on his face,
The insane elf, the invocation, the ringing Scriabin.