Day 31: Symphony No. 5 in B Flat Major (Klemperer)

This afternoon, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 5 in B Flat Major (WAB 105), nicknamed “Pizzicato Symphony” or “Tragic,” 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 … [Read more…]

Day 28: Symphony No. 5 in B Flat Major (Furtwangler)

This morning, I am listening to Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 5 in B Flat Major (WAB 105), nicknamed “Pizzicato Symphony” or “Tragic,” interpreted by the legendary German conductor and composer Wilhelm Furtwangler (1886-1954). His orchestra is equally legendary, the Berliner Philharmoniker or – as it’s more commonly known – the Berlin Philharmonic. From the entry … [Read more…]

Day 12: Symphony No. 3 in D Minor (Barenboim)

My “office” this morning is the second floor of the Kentwood Library. This is one of my favorite spots in the whole world for working. The tables are perfectly positioned so that their height is just right to avoid strain on the neck and shoulders. They’re wide. And they overlook the view of a field … [Read more…]