| Hearing live, unamplified orchestral music in performance can be a real eye opener.
Er... ear opener.
I've had a subscription to my local symphony (which is pretty good for a 'minor market' orchestra, I think, but, hey, they're homies) for most of the last 20 years and it's been fairly revelatory.
Mostly, I really enjoy the music. But even when there's some overworn chestnut that I think is going to drive me nuts, I try to concentrate on the sound of the orchestra. There's always plenty to listen to, even if a particular composition doesn't do much for you. The way I figure it, you only get so many chances to see 80 or 100 very accomplished musicians all playing together with no amplification, so even if you're seeing some overexposed Tchaikovsky schmaltz, you better make the most of it. And when push comes to shove, I always find something to enjoy... (even if it's that new second section cellist... she's very cute.) |