From time to time I am asked what is my favourite music piece? I usually answer that I am not sure how I could have a favourite with so many wonderful classical works along with a lesser number of modern scores. And if pressed, I thought to myself and forced to answer, I would have to choose Piano Concerto No. 2 by Sergei Rachmaninoff. And while I know the melody and movements of the piece fairly well. I know very little about the composer and the background leading to this work.
Well, that is what the internet is all about. This work was written between the autumn of 1900 and April 1901. The second and third movements were first performed with the composer as soloist on December 2, 1900, and the complete work was premiered on October 27th, 1901.
Rachmaninoff's first was premiered in 1897 and derided by the critics. Although now it is considered a significant achievement. This along with problems in his personal life, let Rachmaninoff into a bout of clinical depression for several years.
It is interesting to note that such a wonderful piece of work was at first derided and then praised. This goes to show that breaking new ground and the life of a pioneer is not easy. Difficulty arises for us when we depend on the acceptance of others for our self esteem.
Dear reader, I think this is a lesson for all of us. Let's please ourselves in our work and artistry and if the rest of the world loves it, that is great, but if the world says "nay", then we have still done the best that we could.
Live well and prosper.
Dennis
Hopefully we don't have to live on photography and painting. We just love to do it. Even when no other rewards are forthcoming, artists receive ample private satisfaction which is endless!
ReplyDeleteI like Sergei Rachmaninoff's "Paganini Rhapsody" too, do you like it?