In 1994, President Clinton issued a proclamation urging all Americans to observe September as Classical Music Month. Most people may claim not to be a fan of this genre, but we bet that you know a lot more classical music than you think. With more and more classical pieces popping up in movies, television programs, and commercials, many people have gone in search of these artistic masterpieces to add them to their personal playlists.
Did you know?
As you take in their fascinating works this month, here are a few facts we thought you might find interesting about some of the world’s best-loved classical composers:
- At the age of 5, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was already composing. He was sickly as a young child and, sadly, died at the young age of 35.
- When he was 16, Ludwig van Beethoven took lessons from Mozart. He became deaf in his 20’s but amazingly went on to compose some of the greatest symphonies of all time. His original title of “Moonlight Sonata” was called “Quasi una Fantasia” (Italian for “Almost a Fantasy”). The popular title of Moonlight Sonata didn’t come about until several years after his death when a German music critic wrote that the sonata reminded him of the reflected moonlight off Lake Lucerne.
- Debussy created an alter ego whom he called “Monsier Croche.”
- Among Chopin’s most famous compositions is Polonaises in G minor and B flat major 9, which he composed when he was 7 years old.
- Antonio Vivaldi entered into the priesthood in 1693 but left in 1706 claiming ill health but it was believed he wanted to pursue a musical career.
Ways to Celebrate
There are many ways you can take part in classical music month, whether it’s attending a classical concert, learning to play an instrument, or just relaxing and marveling at the beauty of these musical masterpieces. As a matter of fact, here at Blue Mountain, we like to use classical pieces in our eCards. A fan favorite is Magical Wishbone, a card that features Aaron Copland’s Simple Gifts, from Appalachian Spring. As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect way to share a wish along with a beloved piece of classical music.
Listen to Some Classical Favorites
We’ve compiled a playlist for you to enjoy as you celebrate Classical Music Month. Though you may not recognize the titles of some of these works, we think you’ll be surprised at just how many pieces you know. Enjoy!
