Listening to this new series of symphonies via the BBC has been quite enjoyable, as I would have expected.
But whether it’s the brief introductions by the presenters — generally some historical context about the premiere — or the lack of a physical component to this presentation, I find myself marveling at the very idea of going to hear a premiere of one of these.
How often today would we be able to go to a performance without having heard a single note beforehand? Today, we have recordings, televised performances, reviews and articles, all designed to enhance or explain the piece. But 200 years ago — even 100 years ago, for many — there was no way to know what was coming. You bought your ticket and took your chance.
By referring to the lack of a physical component, I mean no CD case or record sleeve, no liner notes, no cover art. Just the music. Unlike Beethoven’s contemporaries, I can rewind and reply to my heart’s content but I still approach the experience with no preconceived ideas about the interpretation.
[composed and posted with ecto]