May 16, 2019
This week we explore one of the great string quartets of the 20th century. It is a piece that was written in the wake of World War II, and reflects the turmoil and uncertainty of a composer asking the deepest questions about war, life and death, and the future. We'll talk about the titles Shostakovich added to...
May 9, 2019
Charles Ives was one of the most innovative, dynamic, creative, and underrated American composers. Described as half Huck Finn, half Thomas Jefferson, Ives tackled a dizzying array of styles in his music, from avant-garde music 50 years ahead of its time, to joyous explorations of American folk music, and much more....
May 2, 2019
This week we explore one of Mozart's greatest symphonies, the Prague. This symphony, written possibly as a gift for the city that adored him so much, is one of Mozart's most ambitious pieces, with a massive first movement that rivals Beethoven's Eroica in length. The piece is full of exactly what makes Mozart's music...
Apr 25, 2019
Welcome to Season 5 of Sticky Notes! This week, we look at Mendelssohn's famous overture, and his slightly less famous incidental music to Shakespeare's beloved play. We'll explore the remarkably precocious overture, written when Mendelssohn was just 17, and the incidental music written 17 years later, full...
Apr 18, 2019
One week until Season 5 of Sticky Notes! This week, we look t one of the most popular 20th century symphonies. From the moment of its premiere, this piece was given a revolutionary narrative by Finnish Nationalists looking to throw off the yoke of Russian oppression. We explore how the music supports or undermines...