My blog - talking about music

Older pupils were always more likely to ask this question. I got used to the idea that I would never win my argument, but I always challenged them to choose a song and then let me show them why a piece of classical music was more interesting. The challenge was never accepted, and I would have been flogging a dead horse anyway. There was, however, one occasion, when a class came, quite independently, to their own conclusion that a pop song they loved was boring. I used to have

Some thoughts on what motivates a composer to write music. “Late Beethoven, it’s a load of rubbish isn’t it?”. So began the viva voce exam marking the end of my 3-year degree course. Late Beethoven, for the record, is not  a load of rubbish. But it’s not an easy listen, often difficult to understand. And I had to say something convincing to the panel of examiners who knew that it wasn’t rubbish but wanted to hear what rubbish I’d come out with to defend it. A few years later,

Discover music for Christmas which goes beyond the usual pop songs.

Suggestions for music to listen to during times of remembrance.

Some suggestions for music to listen to during the Autumn.

Reading music criticism can be instructive. But are critics as wise as they seem? And when should we ignore them?

The Lark Ascending is a hugely popular piece of music. But has its success worked against its composer?

Suggestions for music to listen to during the Summer. Link to an inspirational playlist.

How do you listen to music? Do you mind which performers you listen to? Does it really make a difference?

A few thoughts on how a sceptic might approach a composer who can be musical Marmite. This blog links to a Spotify playlist:...