Lindy Music, As to Qs

So, last week we had a short QnA so I figured to answer the Qs here today. But before we do that, I wanted to let you know of a few changes.

First of all, from now on you can find me writing for the “Lindy Newspaper”, in an edition called “Lindy Music”.

The first issue is already out:

https://paulskallas.substack.com/p/lindy-music-1

The “Ascoltare Newsletter” will continue to hit your inbox twice a month.

But it will be longer and more detailed. I want every issue to last at least a few days in terms of music.

Now that there is a separate place where you can simply go and listen to good music, I’ll be to able to dive deeper into the intricacies of each composition.

My Twitter account will also support the newsletter with daily recommendations and thoughts on music.

Onwards!

Answers to Questions

#1 @sutpen: My question is this: which pieces of music would you say perfectly combine storytelling with composition?

I think all music is essentially a story. Whether it’s delivered with words or sounds.

But if we’re being literal, operas are quite literally stories accompanied by music.

Wagner’s “monstrosity” of an opera cycle tells a similar story to the one we encounter in Lord of the Rings:

We’ll explore operas when I feel ready I can delve into such a complicated form of music.

For the time being, beyond Wagner, I suggest any of Mozart’s operas.

“Don Giovanni” is a great one:

#2 @ian : Headphones/speakers? What is your favourite medium and why

If my speakers were up to par, I’d choose speakers. So, headphones it is.

Speakers allow the music to breathe. You were never supposed to listen to every single detail of a performance, especially today’s digitally refined ones.

#3 @ConorGallagher : Have you considered a post going in-depth on your background in music?

I might write more details in the future but the gist of it is that I began playing the classical guitar when I was 7 or 8. I started studying classical music theory, harmony, and counterpoint around that age. I got a degree in counterpoint when I was 16 and got my guitar diploma at 20.

It has been a part of my life for so long, I never considered pursuing it as a separate “hobby”. It’s just there, in the background. If I exclude the year when I got carpal tunnel syndrome, I don’t remember a day I didn’t play music. Whether on the piano or guitar.

But I want to highlight that there’s a gigantic difference between a professional musician and a retired amateur like me. I know that because I used to be a professional musician. The amount of hours they spend on their craft is something I don’t do anymore.

This is also the reason why I think I’m suitable to write these kinds of posts. I can relate to both sides. I can express the experience of an amateur listener, with a few minor edits from a semi-professional musician.

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That’s it friends! See you next week with a regular issue.

Thank you!