Is practising music as we intend it *really* necessary?
If you (half-heartedly) took up an instrument as a kid, you must remember being forced to practise for the customary hour each day–if only we … Read more
INSPIRATIONAL
Bach’s cello suite played at the top of the world
Cellist Ruth Boden wanted to do something with music that “transcends the commonplace,” and so in this video, she puts her cello on her back … Read more
The Musical Contributions of Benjamin Franklin
In addition to being one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) made a significant impact as an author, inventor, scientist, … Read more
Hail to the Chief: History of U.S. Presidential Anthem
“Hail to the Chief” is the official anthem announcing the arrival of the president of the United States at formal events. It has been used … Read more
Take a Look at This Steampunk Marble-Powered Music Box
Instruments like the theremin (you can control it without physical contact!) are simple compared to the Wintergatan Marble Machine, the latest invention by Swedish musician … Read more
Study reveals practising a musical instrument helps children focus and plan ahead
A study published by researchers at the University of Vermont’s College of Medicine provides more evidence of the benefits music can bring to children and … Read more
This 90-year-old couple playing Bach duets should be an inspiration to all musicians
Recorded in Budapest, this video shows the result of 70 years of musical collaboration. Romanian-born Hungarian composer Gyorgy Kurtag and his wife Marta, who have … Read more
How about a classical music cruise this summer?
CroisiEurope, a cruise operator running trips on Europe’s rivers, has announced a new week-long holiday aimed at classical music fans. The inaugural trip will begin … Read more
This Ted Talk Brilliantly Explains How To Read Music
If I asked you what Justin Bieber and Beethoven had in common, I bet you would shudder in disgust, thinking that not even The Piano … Read more
19th Century Cello That Went to War Sells for Over £6,000 at Auction
A historic cello which travelled to war with its owner in South Africa during the 19th century has been sold at an auction house in … Read more
The Mozart Effect: What can babies really hear in the womb?
Psychologist Frances Rauscher had no idea her 1993 research study featuring 36 college students would spawn a craze termed (and copyrighted) “The Mozart Effect.” According … Read more
Does online streaming really spell the end for CDs and vinyl?
It wasn’t very long ago that media reports were pointing out that digital music sales had surpassed physical sales for the first time. In April, … Read more
Five Remarkable Covers of David Bowie’s Hits
Throughout his career, he employed a wide range of musical styles: we can list rock’n’roll, music hall, hard rock, heavy metal, soul, psychedelic folk and … Read more
The Harry Potter Soundtrack gets an Indian Makeover
If you never listened to The Indian Jam Project, we suggest you start doing so immediately. By using instruments such as sarangi, santoor, and the … Read more
Unheard of Instruments in the Saxophone Family
Dr Paul Cohen is not only a virtuoso saxophonist who masters composers ranging from Debussy to John Williams. In fact, he also boasts an impressive … Read more