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Jan Swafford returns with his profound insights into the personal lives of composers of the Classic to the Modern eras

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Manage episode 500954543 series 2833043
Content provided by Anthony Plog (host), Eddie Ludema (Producer), Anthony Plog (host), and Eddie Ludema (Producer). All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Anthony Plog (host), Eddie Ludema (Producer), Anthony Plog (host), and Eddie Ludema (Producer) or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Jan Swafford is a distinguished American author and composer, known for his insightful biographies of great composers like Charles Ives, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With degrees from Harvard and Yale, he's made significant contributions to classical music literature. His works, including the Vintage Guide to Classical Music and "Language of the Spirit," reveal the rich narratives behind the music we love. His unique insights and deep understanding of these composers illuminate their artistic journeys in a way that resonates with both music lovers and scholars alike.
In our conversation, we explore the fascinating lives of Haydn and Mozart, delving into their prolific output and the support systems that fueled their creativity. Jan highlights how Haydn composed to commission, leading to his astonishing catalog of works, while debunking myths about Mozart's talent and lifestyle. “He worked himself to death because his body couldn’t handle it anymore,” Jan reflects on Mozart’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
[Subscriber Content] In the subscriber section, Jan shares his thoughts on Tchaikovsky and Brahms, revealing personal preferences and insights about their contrasting styles. He also reflects on the evolution of music through the lens of history, discussing how composers like Schoenberg and Stravinsky marked a shift in musical innovation. Jan emphasizes the importance of authenticity in composition, stating, "It has to come from your core; otherwise, it’s no good." Prepare for a warm exploration of music’s profound connections to the human experience, as Jan shares his unique perspective on these influential figures.

Dorico
Professional music notation and composition software from Steinberg. Download a free 30-trial today!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Would you like more inspirational stories, suggestions, insights, and a place to continue the conversations with other listeners? Visit anthonyplog-on-music.supercast.com to learn more!

As a Contributing Listener of "Anthony Plog on Music," you'll have access to extra premium content and benefits including:

  • Extra Audio Content: Only available to Contributing Listeners.
  • Podcast Reflections: Tony's written recaps and thoughts on past interviews, including valuable tips and suggestions for students.
  • Ask Me Anything: Both as written messages and occasional member-only Zoom sessions.
  • The Show's Discord Server: Where conversations about interviews, show suggestions, and questions happen. It's a great place to meet other listeners and chat about all things music!
  • Can I just donate instead of subscribing? Absolutely!
  • Cancel at anytime and easily resubscribe when you want all that extra content again.

Learn more about becoming a Contributing Listener @ anthonyplog-on-music.supercast.com!

  continue reading

199 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 500954543 series 2833043
Content provided by Anthony Plog (host), Eddie Ludema (Producer), Anthony Plog (host), and Eddie Ludema (Producer). All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Anthony Plog (host), Eddie Ludema (Producer), Anthony Plog (host), and Eddie Ludema (Producer) or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://podcastplayer.com/legal.

Jan Swafford is a distinguished American author and composer, known for his insightful biographies of great composers like Charles Ives, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With degrees from Harvard and Yale, he's made significant contributions to classical music literature. His works, including the Vintage Guide to Classical Music and "Language of the Spirit," reveal the rich narratives behind the music we love. His unique insights and deep understanding of these composers illuminate their artistic journeys in a way that resonates with both music lovers and scholars alike.
In our conversation, we explore the fascinating lives of Haydn and Mozart, delving into their prolific output and the support systems that fueled their creativity. Jan highlights how Haydn composed to commission, leading to his astonishing catalog of works, while debunking myths about Mozart's talent and lifestyle. “He worked himself to death because his body couldn’t handle it anymore,” Jan reflects on Mozart’s relentless pursuit of excellence.
[Subscriber Content] In the subscriber section, Jan shares his thoughts on Tchaikovsky and Brahms, revealing personal preferences and insights about their contrasting styles. He also reflects on the evolution of music through the lens of history, discussing how composers like Schoenberg and Stravinsky marked a shift in musical innovation. Jan emphasizes the importance of authenticity in composition, stating, "It has to come from your core; otherwise, it’s no good." Prepare for a warm exploration of music’s profound connections to the human experience, as Jan shares his unique perspective on these influential figures.

Dorico
Professional music notation and composition software from Steinberg. Download a free 30-trial today!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Would you like more inspirational stories, suggestions, insights, and a place to continue the conversations with other listeners? Visit anthonyplog-on-music.supercast.com to learn more!

As a Contributing Listener of "Anthony Plog on Music," you'll have access to extra premium content and benefits including:

  • Extra Audio Content: Only available to Contributing Listeners.
  • Podcast Reflections: Tony's written recaps and thoughts on past interviews, including valuable tips and suggestions for students.
  • Ask Me Anything: Both as written messages and occasional member-only Zoom sessions.
  • The Show's Discord Server: Where conversations about interviews, show suggestions, and questions happen. It's a great place to meet other listeners and chat about all things music!
  • Can I just donate instead of subscribing? Absolutely!
  • Cancel at anytime and easily resubscribe when you want all that extra content again.

Learn more about becoming a Contributing Listener @ anthonyplog-on-music.supercast.com!

  continue reading

199 episodes

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