Margaret Mikulska <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

>If Pierrot is mentioned so often it's not because it fits any pattern
>(it doesn't), but because it's a splendid and beautiful work.  It's
>haunting, it's one of those works that just force you to listen to it
>all over again and again.

My apologies.  I respect anyone who loves a piece, whether I myself like
it or not.  It's people who have never passionately loved ANY piece that
I feel sorry for.

Too bad for me and Pierrot, for I really can't stand it, music and text.
But I've only heard it three times, so I can't say I really KNOW the
piece.  Unlike Symphony of Psalms, which I've heard and studied in score
thoroughly, and still considerably dislike.  As to historical trends,
I would only be able to reply in stereotypes with respect to Schoenberg,
so I'll stay away from hot water.  Interested parties can glance at any
textbook to see what the authorities have to say about these two pieces.

While Metamorphosen and the Shostakovich 8th quartet are worthy candidates
for the 20th Essence award, my vote is for the War Requiem.  The shadow of
WW1 still haunts us today, and didn't even start to fade until 1989.  Once
you list technology and death as characteristics of the century, there
isn't much left.  The Petterson 7th might be another characteristic work
in this vein.

Jeff Dunn
[log in to unmask]
Alameda CA