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FN Souza's Portrait of Igor Stravinsky - A Crossroad of Artistic Inspiration - Serenade
I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the recently-concluded ‘In/Of Goa: Souza at 100’ an exhibition of the artworks of the celebrated Goan artist Francis Newton Souza (1924-2002) on the occasion of his birth centenary at Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts. The exhibition aimed “to shed light on the profound influence of Goa, Souza’s birthplace, on his artistic journey” and it succeeded well in that objective. One work that seemed almost an outlier of sorts was an A3-sized pen-and-ink drawing titled simply […]
Remembering Norman Carol - Serenade
Norman Carol, the legendary American violinist and concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra from 1966 to 1994, passed away on April 28 in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. He was 95. Born in Philadelphia to Russian immigrant parents, Carol began playing the violin at age six, and performed his first concert at nine. Following initial studies with Sascha Jacobinoff, he entered the Curtis Institute of Music at 13, where he was a student of Efrem Zimbalist. Serge Koussevitzky heard the 17-year-old Carol perform Édouard […]
The Transformative Power of Learning an Instrument: Why Everyone Should Pick Up the Beat - Serenade
Discover the transformative power of learning a musical instrument! Explore cognitive, emotional, and social benefits, from stress reduction to enhanced brain health. Embrace the journey with practical tips and unlock a world of creativity and connection.
Bonds Built to Last - Serenade
Educational initiatives and outreach programmes feature as prominently on the SOI’s calendar as performances. We take a closer look at two recent collaborations focused on appreciation of Western classical music and developing musical potential among the youth. When the Symphony Orchestra of India was founded by NCPA Chairman Mr. Khushroo N. Suntook and violin virtuoso Marat Bisengaliev back in 2006, there was no such orchestra in existence in the country. Then, the SOI Music Academy was established in 2012 to […]
A Beginners' SEO Guide For Musicians To Rank High On YouTube - Serenade
You’ve got your music ready to share with the world, but how do you make sure it gets noticed on YouTube? That’s where SEO comes in. Optimizing videos on the platform requires more than just creating content and placing keywords. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of Search Engine Optimization explicitly tailored for musicians. With these easy-to-follow tips, you’ll be on your way to ranking high on YouTube and reaching more fans than ever before. #1. […]
Learning to Listen: Understanding Classical Music Through Structure and Emotion - Serenade
Explore classical music with a focus on structure and emotion. Learn about common forms like sonata, symphony, and concerto, and discover how dynamics and orchestration create captivating emotional journeys. This guide offers tips for active listening, attending live performances, and exploring different composers to deepen your appreciation for classical music.
The Collaboration of Brahms and Clara Schumann: Music and Friendship - Serenade
The bond between Johannes Brahms and Clara Schumann is a fascinating story of music, collaboration, and enduring friendship. Despite living in a time when close relationships between male and female composers were not always looked upon favourably, Brahms and Clara Schumann forged a unique and lasting connection. This article explores the nature of their relationship, how it influenced their music, and what their friendship meant to each of them personally and professionally. The Meeting of Brahms and Clara Schumann Johannes […]
PARMA Recordings Acquires Albany Records - Serenade
GRAMMY®-winning production house PARMA Recordings has announced its acquisition of Albany Records. The classical label is welcomed as a new member of the PARMA family, with PARMA assuming responsibility for Albany operations and catalog administration. Albany’s catalog will be available alongside releases from PARMA’s Navona, Ravello, Big Round, and Ansonica Record labels. The acquisition aligns with and further strengthens PARMA’s offerings, adding new depth to an already diverse array of recordings. “We are honored to welcome Albany Records into the […]
Remembering Sir Andrew Davis - Serenade
Sir Andrew Davis, the renowned English conductor, passed away on April 20 following a brief battle with leukemia. He was 80. Davis served as music director of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra from 1975 to 1988, and later as chief conductor of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (2013–2019). From 1989 until 2000, he led the BBC Symphony Orchestra, becoming the longest-serving chief conductor of that ensemble since Adrian Boult. As an opera conductor, Davis led the Glyndebourne Festival and Lyric Opera of […]
ABRSM Grants Empower Global Grassroots Music Initiatives in 2024 - Serenade
Brass teachers in Africa, young composers in the Caribbean and ‘at risk’ children in Guatemala are to benefit from an ABRSM fund reaching out to grassroots music projects around the world. ABRSM’s Play On sponsorship fund is celebrating its second year with a new round of grants supporting eight very different music projects in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. The eight also include a Mozambique initiative using music to enhance life skills and future employment opportunities for children and […]
300 years of Bach's St. John Passion - Serenade
I set aside some time this Good Friday to listen to the complete St. John Passion by Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750). Besides being fitting music for that day of the Holy Week, this year marks the 300th anniversary of the work. In Christian music, a Passion is a setting of the Passion of Christ (i.e. the short final period before the death of Jesus, described in the four canonical gospels and commemorated in Christianity every year during Holy Week). The […]
Renato Zanelli: The Great Chilean Opera Singer - Serenade
Chile, in South America, has produced a handful of operatic singers in the last century, like Sofia del Campo, Carlo Morelli and Ramón Vinay. Among these, stands out the name of Renato Zanelli who enjoyed a fine career in the most important opera houses in the world during a period full of rivals—baritones Giuseppe De Luca, Pasquale Amato, Giuseppe Danise and tenors Aureliano Pertile, Giovanni Martinelli, Giacomo Lauri-Volpi. Zanelli was considered the best Otello in his time and was heir […]
Choosing Your First Electric Drum Kit: Tips and Considerations - Serenade
The booming popularity of electric drum kits among music enthusiasts and professionals alike continues to grow. Whether you’re a lifelong drummer looking to transition to a quieter, more versatile setup or a complete beginner with a passion for percussion, deciding on your first electric drum kit is a significant step in your musical journey. While the richness of choices regarding brands, features, and price points can be exciting, it’s also a surefire way to get lost in the options. Fear […]
The Inspiring Journey of Rose Dam Roy - Serenade
Introducing Rose Dam Roy, a remarkable 11-year-old musician from Kolkata, India, whose journey into the piano began at the tender age of six under the guidance of Mr. Kaushik Das. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Rose’s dedication to her craft has led her to excel in international competitions, securing top positions and garnering recognition from esteemed judges and musicians worldwide. In this interview, Rose shares insights into her musical journey, from her rigorous practice schedule to her aspirations […]
Performance with a Purpose – Celebrating Trinity - Serenade
Trinity College London, the international examinations board for music, performance arts and language, hosted a gala event in Delhi on March 2. It was a wide-ranging programme, showcasing the Board’s suite of subjects and providing a platform for networking amongst new and old teachers. The purpose behind the event revealed Trinity’s commitment to its topmost priority—the importance of education in the arts. An important part of the event was to recognise teachers from Delhi | NCR, and express appreciation for […]
The Class of ’24 - Serenade
The young graduates of the SOI Music Academy gear up for their annual concert, along with a special performance. The tepid April breeze heralds the approaching summer break and respite from textbooks. But at the NCPA, it is the harbinger of the annual concert of the SOI Music Academy, where bright young graduates take the stage. Under the direction of SOI Music Director Marat Bisengaliev and rigorous training by the teachers at the academy, students will come together to showcase […]
Iconic Ballet Scores: From 'The Nutcracker' to 'Giselle' - Serenade
Ballet, with its mesmerizing choreography and ethereal grace, is a captivating art form that seamlessly intertwines movement and music. At the heart of every memorable ballet performance lies its musical score, guiding dancers and audiences alike through a journey of emotion, storytelling, and beauty. In this exploration, we delve into the realm of iconic ballet scores, focusing on timeless masterpieces that have left an indelible mark on the ballet repertoire. From the enchanting melodies of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker,” […]
The Meeting of Cultures - Serenade
From the return of India-born Danish conductor Maria Badstue to the India debuts of the Georgian Sinfonietta, Danish Chamber Players and Indian American soprano Indira Mahajan, the NCPA presents many an international collaboration with the Symphony Orchestra of India. Concerts such as these that transcend borders indicate just how important it is to foster the inextricable link between music and culture. Last month, the audience at the NCPA witnessed the vibrant music of Georgia at a memorable concert by the […]
The Closure of the American Youth Symphony - Serenade
“American Youth Symphony Announces Permanent Closure” screamed the ‘breaking news’ headline on the Violin Channel newsletter I subscribe. Rubbing my eyes in disbelief, I read further: “Citing financial challenges, the orchestra is ceasing all operations as of March 15, 2024, after almost 60 years.” Due to my interest in music education, I keep abreast of youth orchestras and ensembles around the world. The American Youth Symphony (AYS) was particularly well-known to me because it was founded in 1964 by Mehli […]
Harmonizing Communities: Moisés Lugo and the Chennai Youth Sinfonietta - Serenade
Born in Paraguaná, Venezuela, Moisés Lugo is a dedicated music educator and trumpeter. Trained in El Sistema in Paraguaná, he honed his skills under local teachers in his city before going on to perform under the batons of Simon Rattle and Gustavo Dudamel. With over a decade of experience in music education, Moisés passionately empowers children and teenagers through his teaching. Grateful for mentors like Panos Karan and Pedro Gomez Briceño, he actively contributes to charitable initiatives like Keys of […]
Michael Torke’s “Unseen” (No. 7): Embracing an Ecstatic Groove - Serenade
The first single from Unseen, the newest work by American composer, Michael Torke, was released earlier this month. (The full album will be available on May 10). The excerpt, No. 7 from a piece which unfolds in nine brief movements, delivers a visceral and ecstatic sense of groove. Scored for a larger ensemble, Unseen continues in the direction of Torke’s recent chamber albums, Being (2020), Psalms and Canticles (2021), and Time (2022). The composer writes, Unifying these four projects is the use of syncopated rhythms caused by the […]
Remembering Maurizio Pollini: A Tribute to a Legendary Pianist - Serenade
Maurizio Pollini, a name synonymous with brilliance and innovation in the realm of classical music, left an indelible mark on the world stage with his unparalleled talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. On March 23, 2024, the music world mourned the loss of this legendary Italian pianist, whose playing combined intellectual rigour with technical mastery. Early Life and Musical Journey Born on January 5, 1942, in Milan, Italy, Maurizio Pollini’s journey into the world of music began at a […]
Empowering Musical Futures: Lucy French and the Chennai Youth Sinfonietta - Serenade
Lucy French, a versatile cellist from Leamington Spa, UK, embodies a harmonious blend of artistic brilliance and educational passion. Since earning her master’s degree from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London in 2017, Lucy has embarked on a dynamic journey across continents, thriving both as a contemporary performer and a committed educator. Her musical endeavors have taken her to prestigious stages, including performances with the Hofesh Shechter Dance Company and engagements with orchestras like the Chineke! Orchestra. […]
Frances Alda: A Journey from Antipodean Beginnings to Metropolitan Opera Stardom - Serenade
Frances Alda was born as Fanny Jane Davis on 31st May 1879 in Christchurch, New Zealand. It was her famous teacher Mathilde Marchesi who evolved “Alda” as the soprano’s last name. Her mother, Leonora Simonsen, was a professional singer. As a child, Alda was taken to Australia to live with her maternal grandparents in a suburb of Melbourne. “I cannot remember a time when I couldn’t beat my boy-playmates at tennis, or swim as fast and as far as they […]
ABRSM launches first ever drum kit syllabus - Serenade
ABRSM is launching its first ever drum kit syllabus. Showcasing an unprecedented breadth of musical styles, the landmark syllabus offers drum candidates the opportunity to perform new and existing tracks by some of the world’s most popular artists and influential drummers, including: The White Stripes, James Brown, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Dua Lipa and Elton John. The new syllabus gives drum kit candidates choice over when, where and what they play and covers everything from rock, pop, drum and bass, […]
Scriabin’s Fantasie in B Minor: A Dramatic Tour de Force - Serenade
The story, recounted by the Russian musicologist, Leonid Sabaneyev, is so incredible that it may have been apocryphal. One day, while in Alexander Scriabin’s Moscow flat, Sabaneyev sat down at the piano and began to play a theme from Scriabin’s Fantasie in B minor, Op. 28. The composer called out from the next room, “Who wrote that? It sounds familiar.” “Your Fantasie,” was the response. “What Fantasie?” Composed in 1900 during Scriabin’s brief tenure on the piano faculty of the […]
Amplify Your Sound: Essential Tips for Newcomer Music Promotion - Serenade
In today’s oversaturated music landscape, it is an immense challenge for new artists to get their music heard amongst the millions of other songs produced and uploaded daily. The traditional avenues for promotion and musical discovery that existed a decade ago have now been revolutionized by the digital era and the rise of streaming platforms. While powerful tools for sharing your art with a global audience are at your fingertips, the modern music industry also presents unprecedented hurdles for emerging […]
A Comprehensive Guide to Essential Classical Guitar Repertoire - Serenade
Dive into the world of classical guitar with our comprehensive guide to must-know repertoire. From the timeless melodies of the Renaissance to contemporary masterpieces, explore the essential pieces, techniques, and resources for enthusiasts and beginners alike.
Plácido Domingo’s Operalia Comes to Mumbai - Serenade
As the NCPA prepares for the grand welcome of the 31st edition of Operalia and the celebrated tenor himself, ON Stage goes behind the scenes of the world’s most prestigious opera competition to be held this September for the first time in India. For participants of television talent shows of today, gaining a fan following and press attention has become somewhat of a given. Even then, success can be fleeting for winners who are crowned the best only until the […]
Neena Roy: Inspiring Excellence in Western Classical Music Education - Serenade
Neena Roy, an esteemed educator in Western classical music, shares her insights into teaching methods, philosophies, and experiences. With a rich background in Indian classical vocal music and prestigious training at institutions like the Calcutta School of Music and the Royal College in London, Neena’s journey has been shaped by a deep appreciation for melody and cultural diversity. Through her teaching, she emphasizes the interconnectedness between music, art, and society, aiming to nurture well-rounded musicians who appreciate the complexity of […]
Chennai Youth Sinfonietta Teachers: Efrén Ruiz, Strings - Serenade
Discover Efrén Ruiz, a dynamic Venezuelan cellist and educator with a passion for intertwining music and values education. With a diverse background spanning prestigious programs like "El Sistema" and collaborations with luminaries such as Sir Simon Rattle, Efrén's approach to music education emphasizes human connection and inclusivity. Through initiatives like Kinder Paradise in Ghana and his project "Cello Motive," he strives to make high-quality music education accessible while fostering community engagement and excellence. Join the Serenade Team as they explore Efrén's transformative impact on young musicians and his vision for Chennai Youth Sinfonietta's role in shaping the future of classical music education and societal change.
Laying the Foundation: The Essential Role of the Bass Guitar in Music - Serenade
The Unsung Hero: Importance of the Bass Guitar Looking at the musical canvas, which captivates listeners worldwide, makes one wonder about the role of the bass guitar in performance. This instrument, which is often under appreciated and greatly misunderstood, forms the foundation of rhythm and melody in many different genres. When played, its strings produce powerful rhythms that highlight other instruments. Harmonic Convergence and Rhythmic Support When it comes to the world of harmony creation, no other electric instrument can […]
Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” at 100 - Serenade
George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue was premiered one hundred years ago, on the snowy afternoon of February 12, 1924, at Aeolian Hall on Manhattan’s West 43rd Street. The 25-year-old composer was at the piano, joined by the dance band of Paul Whiteman, the noted bandleader who commissioned the work. It was presented near the end of a marathon concert, organized and promoted by Whiteman, entitled, An Experiment in Modern Music. Purportedly in attendance were such musical luminaries as Sergei Rachmaninov, Fritz […]
ABRSM Launches 'Start Here': A New Podcast Journeying Through Music's Diverse Landscape - Serenade
Discover diverse musical genres with ABRSM's new podcast series, Start Here! Join host Alexis Ffrench as he explores everything from Afrobeats to classical organ music. Featuring guests like DJ Bob Harris, Punjabi Hit Squad, and Anna Lapwood, each episode unlocks a new genre, including jazz, K-pop, and more. Dive into discussions with experts like Jeffrey Boakye and experience the joy of music exploration. Don't miss out - tune in every Wednesday on Start Here Podcast and your favorite podcast platforms!
Red Rocks: A Chronicle of Iconic Performances and Natural Wonders - Serenade
The June of 1978 marked a rare occurrence. The American rock legend Bruce Springsteen had a reputation for being reluctant to perform outdoors. But when he was told, “Red Rocks is simply indoors without a roof ”, a curious Springsteen was compelled to come around. His debut at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado that summer became his first outdoor performance. “Nice place you got here…bunch of big rocks,” he said, marvelling at the stage. The Red Rocks Park and […]
Maria Caniglia: A Life in Opera's Limelight - Serenade
Maria Caniglia was born in Naples on 5th May 1905. It was considered a blessing when Agostino Roche accepted her as his student, since he was responsible for the stellar technique of Ebe Stignani, one of the great mezzo sopranos of the 20th century. Stignani was older than Caniglia by two years and made her debut five years ahead of her. From the very first time Caniglia heard Stignani, she was astounded, not having the faintest idea that in time […]
Suzuki, Einstein and India - Serenade
Suzuki is a household name worldwide for any western music student or teacher. As someone invested in music education, the life of Shinichi Suzuki is endlessly fascinating to me. So I found ‘Suzuki: The Man and his Dream to Teach the Children of the World’ (2022) by Eri Hotta a gripping read. Hotta’s comprehensive biography also addressed the needless controversy created by American violin virtuoso and composer Mark O’Connor (whom I regard highly on both counts) when in 2014 he […]
Renowned Conductor Seiji Ozawa Passes Away at 88 - Serenade
Discover the remarkable life and legacy of Seiji Ozawa, the legendary Japanese conductor known for his advocacy of modern composers and transformative leadership of prestigious orchestras worldwide. Explore his early years, international success, and enduring impact on the classical music landscape.