On This Day – January 16

Today we look at a French composer of ballets, operas and other works for stage, who is most well known for the British Airlines advertisement. Léo Delibes, died on this day in 1891.

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On This Day – January 7

Today we celebrate a member of Les Six, who composed music in all major genres including art song, chamber music, oratorio, opera, ballet music and orchestral music. He has been described as “half bad boy, half monk” by critic Claude Rostand. Francis Poulenc, born on this day in 1899.

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On This Day – January 5

Today we look at a concerto that inspires humanity. Written for Paul Wittgenstein who lost his right arm during World War 1, it reminds us that music eats at us, and if something gets in the way of us doing it, we will find a way to do it no matter what. Ravel’s Piano Concerto in D Major for the Left Hand, premiered on this day in 1932. Continue reading “On This Day – January 5”