Thanks to the generous Kate, the Snook and I headed to the Opera House tonight to see Europa Galante performing Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons” (along with some other Baroque pieces). The group of 14 musicans are known for performing on period instruments, including a mandolin and a harpsichord. It was fascinating. Look, I’m not a big classical music person. I’ve been to the Concert Hall a few times, but it’s always for things involving Lord of the Rings or Bugs Bunny or videogames. That said, I really honestly enjoyed myself tonight. A good part of that was recognizing the music, I’m sure, but also it was impossible not to get caught up in the passion these guys had for it. Most of them were standing throughout the performance, so when they were really going at it during a vigorous passage it was almost like they were dancing (or even head-banging). The harpsichord gave me shivers with its first note; it felt like we were listening to Music for Kings and Queens. (I did feel bad that the player had to sit with her back towards us throughout the performance!) During the intermission, the Snook and I talked about why certain pieces of music evoke pictures in your head. Why should this melody feel suspenseful and anxious, while that one feels light and happy? I don’t know enough about music theory and the human brain. It was sure fun though.
OH! But people suck. The audience is always what ruins these things for me. Look, if you have a cough, STAY HOME. If you want to take 50 pictures with your ginormous digital SLR, GET A PRESS PASS. (The bright LCD of the girl next to me drove me crazy.) Don’t eat candy out of rustling plastic bags. Don’t come in 15 minutes late and clomp to your seat. Don’t rush for the exits the second the final piece ends, and definitely don’t try to slink back in once they start up an encore. And for the love of God, TURN OFF YOUR MOBILE PHONE. ARGH. They really should hand out etiquette leaflets at these things.
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