What’s Playing at Tonal Diversions – September 2017

It’s been a while since I’ve done a review post and thought it was time to do another. Please note that I’m an Amazon affiliate, so purchases made via Amazon links to benefit the blog.

Rarètes Romantiques

Just for Winds recently ran a promotion for a free CD, so I took advantage and ordered Rarètes Romantiques. Anne A. Watson (clarinet) and Gail Novak (piano) perform. It’s a compilation of lesser known works for clarinet and piano from the Romantic period. All of which happen to have been composed by women. This is an important recording, as women during that time period 1) weren’t encouraged to pursue composition (or music in general) as a career, and 2) societal norms at the time dictated which instruments women were and weren’t allowed to play. Consequently, there were very few female clarinet players.

I’m enjoying this CD quite a bit. The performers are excellent. I like the selection of pieces and have already found the sheet music to one (“Griechische Sonate” by Ella Adaïewsky). I want to listen to the CD a few more times to thoroughly absorb everything, and I’m looking forward to that.

2017 Tony Awards Season

Apparently this is the first year they’ve done a compilation CD; one wonders why in the world they hadn’t done one before. But, better late than never! I liked getting a taste of what appeared on Broadway recently. I’ll probably get around to listening to all the individual cast albums, but now I have more of an idea of where I want to go first.

One of my favorites is the first track (“Deep Beneath the City/Not There Yet”). It’s from In Transit, the first a cappella musical ever, to my knowldge. It has a great energy that set the scene of the subway during a daily commute. I enjoyed the song from Amélie (“Times are Hard for Dreamers”) and I’d like to hear more. I liked the storytelling in “Me and the Sky” (from Come From Away). “Sincerely, Me” (from Dear Evan Hansen) was quite entertaining and I’m curious to know more of the story.

The Science of Mindfulness by Ronald D. Siegel

While it’s not music, and I’m only about 1/4 the way through, I really like this entry in the Great Courses series. Dr. Siegel is an excellent presenter. I’ve been more interested in the subject lately so I’ve found it fascinating. Many public libraries carry these series, so you might be able to check it out from your local branch.

So, what are you listening to? I’d love to hear from you!