Day 63: Symphony No. 9 in D Minor (Klemperer)

First of all, the astute ones among you may notice that today’s Day is #63. Now, since this web site is titled 63 More Days With Bruckner And Me, you’re probably thinking, “This is the end, right? Day 63! Hurrah! You made it!” Unfortunately, that’s not the case. I missed counting by one day. Math … [Read more…]

Day 59: Symphony No. 9 in D Minor (Celibidache)

This morning, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 9 in D Minor (WAB 109), interpreted by the Romanian conductor Sergiu Celibidache (1912-1996). According to one web site, his name is pronounced: SER-zhoo Chay-lee-bee-DAH-ke. If you want to read the background info on Maestro Celibidache (and I recommend it; he was a fascinating guy), … [Read more…]

Day 57: Symphony No. 9 in D Minor (Barenboim)

Here was my “office” last week, at least on one of the mornings. This picture was taken following an overnight rain shower. By mid day it was sunny again: My week at the monastery was sublime. I’d live there if I could. This particular blog isn’t the place to recount my experiences, insights, and research … [Read more…]

Day 55: Symphony No. 8 in C Minor (Klemperer)

This morning, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 8 in C Minor (WAB 108), interpreted by German-born conductor and composer Otto Klemperer (1885-1973). Prior to this Bruckner project, I had never heard of Otto Klemperer – although I had heard of his son, actor Werner Klemperer, most famous for his portrayal of Col. … [Read more…]

Day 51: Symphony No. 8 in C Minor (Celibidache)

My “office” this morning is the library, one of my favorite places to be. When I was a kid, I loved the library and spent hours there, sitting on the floor beside stacks of books stretching as far as the eye could see, reading. Then, I’d check out a load of books that nearly dwarfed … [Read more…]

Day 49: Symphony No. 8 in C Minor (Barenboim)

A new cycle of Bruckner symphonies begins today! This morning, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 8 in C Minor (WAB 108), interpreted by Argentine-born pianist and conductor Daniel Barenboim (1942-), whom I saw conduct the Staatskapelle Berlin in a performance of Bruckner’s Eighth at Carnegie Hall on January 28th of this year. … [Read more…]

Day 47: Symphony No. 7 in E Major (Klemperer)

This morning, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 7 in E Major (WAB 107), interpreted by German-born conductor and composer Otto Klemperer (1885-1973). Prior to this Bruckner project, I had never heard of Otto Klemperer – although I had heard of his son, actor Werner Klemperer, most famous for his portrayal of Col. … [Read more…]

Day 43: Symphony No. 7 in E Major (Celibidache)

My “office” this morning is my favorite book store for a killer coffee and scone and some research time and conversation. This morning, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 7 in E Major (WAB 107) interpreted by the Romanian conductor Sergiu Celibidache (1912-1996). According to one web site, his name is pronounced: SER-zhoo … [Read more…]

Day 39: Symphony No. 6 in A Major (Klemperer)

My “office” this morning is Baker Book House where I am enjoying a delicious blueberry-lemon scone, a cup of Nicaragua coffee, and the peace that comes from spending time in a massive book store early in the morning. As I’m sipping and munching, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 6 in A Major … [Read more…]

Day 35: Symphony No. 6 in A Major (Celibidache)

I’m still sick as a dog. I’m listening to the symphonies, yes. But typing up each blog is a colossal pain in the hoo-hah because my head hurts, my eyes are watering, and I can’t breathe. (Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln. What did you think of the play?) It’s a good thing I’m doing this … [Read more…]