The Struggle to Appreciate: Tobias in Whatever

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around participants' experiences and preferences regarding classical music, particularly in relation to the works of contemporary composer Tobias Picker. Participants express varying levels of appreciation for different musical styles and composers, exploring the emotional and intellectual challenges of classical music.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants find the sharp notes of Tobias Picker's music difficult to appreciate, expressing discomfort with the style.
  • Others suggest starting with more accessible pieces, such as adagios or nocturnes, and recommend composers like Ralph Vaughan Williams and Samuel Barber.
  • Several participants express a fondness for Bach's Goldberg Variations and Mozart's Clarinet Concerto, indicating a preference for these works over contemporary classical music.
  • There are suggestions to explore online resources, such as radio stations or specific performances, to find more enjoyable classical music.
  • Some participants argue that contemporary classical music, like that of Tobias Picker, does not align with traditional classical music and express disdain for it.
  • Discussions arise about the historical context of classical music and the challenges of appreciating older compositions, with some noting that certain pieces may require a different mindset to enjoy.
  • Participants share personal anecdotes about their musical journeys, including initial struggles with certain styles and the gradual appreciation of more complex works.
  • There is mention of specific composers and pieces that are considered more accessible or enjoyable, such as Dvorak's 9th Symphony and Tchaikovsky's works.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion contains multiple competing views on the value and accessibility of contemporary classical music versus traditional classical music. Participants do not reach a consensus, as opinions vary widely on what constitutes enjoyable music.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of familiarity with classical music, indicating that their experiences and preferences are influenced by personal exposure and historical context. Some mention the difficulty of understanding or appreciating certain pieces without prior knowledge.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals exploring classical music, particularly those seeking recommendations or grappling with their own musical preferences and experiences.

  • #31
I shouldn't read depressing posts like that. Let me cheer myself up - Wolram, here are a few classics which I believe absolutely anyone can enjoy, without knowing anything about the art. Particularly, these are the least likely to be either boring or physically painful to your ears!

Hector Berlioz, Symphony Fantastique
P.I. Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 5; Violin Concerto; Piano Concerto ("No. 1", usually not stated because No. 2 and No. 3 are very obscure)
Johannes Brahms, Piano Concerto no. 2; Quintet in f minor, for piano and strings
Beethoven, Symphony No. 6 ("Pastoral"); Piano sonatas op. 53 "Waldstein", op. 81a "Les Adieux", op. 109
Frederic Chopin - the Nocturnes (very short pieces), Preludes op. 28
Felix Mendelssohn - Violin Concerto
Franz Schubert - Impromptus, op. 90; op. 144
J.S. Bach - the Cello suites; the Brandenburg concerti

(This listing is not comprehensive, merely reflecting a tiny subset of the most accessible and enjoyable music ever written. This is of course, incredibly controversial. The opinions here are solely my own, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Greg B, Physics Forums, or its subsidiaries or shareholders.)
 
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  • #32
I usually listen to a lady, i have found i like chopin all ready, i must get something to play music on, i only have a radio for entertainment.
 
  • #33
Stay away from Shostakovich :biggrin:
(Although I personally love his music)
 
  • #34
Markjdb said:
Stay away from Shostakovich :biggrin:
(Although I personally love his music)

You just made that one up :smile:
 
  • #35
Rach3 said:
:frown: ...[/color]

Sorry. A bit of a misunderstanding. I was meant to say 'from the composers view'
 

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