The Four Seasons in New York

Last year I attended my first classical music concert in the Manhattan School of Music.  The orchestra played the famous Four Season by Antonio Vivaldi.  The symphony was composed by Antonio Vivaldi in 1725 during the Baroque Era and it’s so melodious and original till this day.  The title comes from Vivaldi associating each concerto with a different season of the year which has four parts: Spring, summer, fall, and winter. 

The orchestra had about 100 musicians and had instruments like violins, flutes, and a keyboard.  The Four Seasons musical instruments like the violin, produces a powerful yet ethereal sound that’s memorable and exciting.  My favorite concerto was spring and summer.

Spring begins with an iconic violin arrangement that is heart-warming and strong.  I feel happy and I want to stand on my feet and dance.  All the strings are playing together at the same time, producing this powerful allegro sound that says “spring is here”.  "Spring was also a firm favorite of King Louis XV, who would order it to be performed at the most unexpected moment” (Baroque). I can imagine this piece of music being played during the French Revolution in a Chateau where everyone gathered to celebrate and dance.

 As summer enters the tone is not as happy as spring.  It gives me a dreary feeling but still is able to uplift me at the same time.  Feels like a summer day where the sun is so hot you have to scatter for shade.  Once you have found that perfect spot underneath the tree, you seat to enjoy the warm breeze and let your mind run free.  The violinist is given a virtuoso part and the sounds are exciting and engaging.   I am amaze of the speed and skill the violinist has on this piece.  I am at the edge of my chair with these impressive melodies that take over my imagination.                                                                                                                                                                                

It was so intriguing to me because I have a background in ballet and I danced to many classical pieces but never went to a live concert.  The experience was amazing and this piece of music has truly stood the test of time. 

 

Work Cited

“Baroque Composers and Musicians.” baroquemusic.org.N.p.,n.d. Web.20 Feb. 2014.