A-Z of Orchestra

Aram Khachaturian arr. Aleksey Krasavin - Sabre Dance

Mozart - Symphony No. 25 In G Minor  K. 183 (complete)

The Serenade No. 13 for strings in G major, K. 525 was written by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1787. The work is more commonly known by the title Eine kleine Nachtmusik. The German title means "a little serenade", though it is often rendered more literally but less accurately as "a little night music". The work is written for a chamber ensemble of two violins, viola, and cello with optional double bass, but is often performed by string orchestras.

Mozart - Eine kleine Nachtmusik

Mozart_Divertimento in D major K.136

Hugh Wolff leads the New England Conservatory Philharmonia in a performance of Beethoven's Egmont Overture. Recorded live in Symphony Hall, Boston April 23, 2014.

Beethoven: Overture to Egmont, op. 84

Johann Strauss Jr. - Voices of Spring
The Miami Symphony Orchestra
Eduardo Marturet - Conductor

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts - Knight Concert Hall
January 21, 2012

© 2012 Miami Symphony Orchestra. All rights reserved.

Johann Strauss Jr. - Voices of Spring

Vivaldi: Concerto Op.3 No. 10 In B Minor, RV 580 (4 Violins, vlc, strings and continuo) - 1.Allegro

Natural Palette

Vivaldi Autumn

Johann Sebastian Bach: Violin Concerto in A minor, BWV 1041

Thomas Gould, violin
Senesino Players

Johann Sebastian Bach: Violin Concerto in A minor: 3. Allegro assai

Beethoven: Piano Classics - The Very Best of Beethoven

Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor, "Für Elise"

Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune is the third movement of his Suite Bergamasque, written for solo piano and completed in 1905. The title, meaning “Moonlight,” is inspired by Paul Verlaine’s poem, evoking a serene and reflective atmosphere. The piece epitomizes French Impressionism, focusing on mood and imagery over traditional form.
Structure and Atmosphere

The piece is in ternary form (ABA):

    Opening (A):
    A soft, flowing melody emerges over delicate arpeggios. The music feels weightless, like moonlight shimmering on water. Debussy uses rich harmonies and seventh chords to create a dreamlike quality, with a tender, introspective mood.

    Middle Section (B):
    The dynamics intensify, with fuller textures and soaring melodic lines. This section brings a sense of emotional depth and urgency, contrasting with the calm opening. Arpeggios cascade dramatically, giving the impression of moonlight suddenly brightening or revealing hidden beauty.

    Closing (A):
    The opening material returns, slightly varied, fading into a gentle, whisper-like conclusion. The piece ends as quietly as it began, leaving a sense of stillness and wonder.

Musical Features

    Harmonics: Debussy’s use of whole-tone scales, parallel chords, and non-functional harmony creates a suspended, ethereal soundscape.
    Melody: The lyrical melody floats effortlessly above the accompaniment, expressing both simplicity and emotional depth.
    Texture: Light, transparent textures alternate with moments of lush, resonant fullness, embodying the interplay of light and shadow.

Mood and Interpretation

Clair de Lune evokes the quiet magic of a moonlit night, combining serenity with subtle melancholy. Its poetic quality invites listeners to imagine moonlight reflecting on a calm lake, whispering through trees, or illuminating a tranquil landscape. The music feels timeless, blending stillness with fleeting moments of intensity.

Cultural Impact

This iconic piece has been widely used in films (Ocean’s Eleven, Twilight) and pop culture, often accompanying scenes of romance, nostalgia, or quiet reflection. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to evoke deep emotion while remaining understated.
Performance Notes

Expressive dynamics, fluid phrasing, and careful pedaling are essential to capturing its delicate atmosphere. A balance between freedom and control ensures its dreamlike flow remains intact.

Clair de Lune is a masterpiece of impressionistic music, celebrated for its ability to transport listeners into a realm of quiet beauty and introspection.

Claude Debussy - The Essential Collection

Clair de Lune

Clair de Lune - Debussy

Mozart - Rondo Alla Turca

Second movement, molto vivace.
Ludwig van Beethoven composed the most beautiful music piece ever - while beeing unable to hear it; he was already deaf! Realised by Berlin Virtual Symphonics.This is a complete virtual Recording. IOS App "Beethoven to Go" now available available at the iTunes Store. The App serves to help you to read (or to learn) the score of Beethoven Symphony No.5.

Buy on iTunes

"Beethoven to Go" 9th Symphony, Second Movement V 1.0

Gorzow Philharmonic Orchestra performing live the 7th Symphony by Beethoven under Piotr Borkowski conducting. September 2011.

Bagatelle No. 25 in A minor, "Für Elise"

Solo Piano Classics

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