GaySA Radio

In today’s programme we are continuing to look at the topic the use of Theme and Variations, after Beethoven. We have music by Elgar and Dvorak. Edward Elgar (1857–1934) Enigma Variations, Op. 36 – 14 variations each portraying a friend of the composer Antonín Dvořák (1841–1904) Symphonic Variations, Op. 78 – a richly orchestrated and well-developed variation set Dvořák and Elgar infused variation...

Our programme today features music that transports us to faraway places, infused with cultural colours. Mikhail Ippolitov-Ivanov Caucasian - Sketches for Orchestra, Op. 10_ Procession of the Sardar Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov - The Flight of the Bumble-bee Isaac Albéniz - Suite española, Op.47 - Granada, Sevilla and Asturias Manuel María Ponce - Estrellita (Arranged for Violin & Orchestra by Joshua Be...

about Music Programme 92. Brahms Variations: Programme description Brahms, as arguably the closest follower of Beethoven in the Romantic period, wrote many sets of variations as did Beethoven. Today we listen to his variations on themes of Paganini, Schumann, and Haydn, including the first set of Variations written for orchestra that was stand-alone (meaning, not part of a longer work.) Johannes B...

Today’s programme is all about relaxation. Serenades and music suitable for the night. Mozart – Eine kleine Nachtmusik 4th movement Franz Strauss – Nocturne, Op. 7 Borodin – Nocturne from String Quartet No. 2 John Field – Nocturne in B-flat Major Schubert – Ständchen (Serenade) Grieg – Nocturne, Op. 54 No. 4 Tchaikovsky – Valse Sentimentale, Op. 51 No. 6 Dvořák – Serenade for Strings, Op. 22 Acade...

I am going to repeat two items that we heard last week, the two sets of variations by Liszt and Rachmaninov on a theme of Paganini, to reinforce the variation techniques as used in the Romantic period. Then I will fill out our programme with more music of Schumann, the Theme and Variations on the name “Abegg”, and the Andante & Variations for 2 Pianos, 2 Cellos & Horn. We also start with Schumann...

This evening we relax to some of the gems of the later 17th and early 18th centuries: George Frideric Handel_ Water Music Suite No. 1 in F Major, HWV 348_ I. Ouverture (Grave - Allegro) George Frideric Handel_ Water Music Suite No. 1 in F Major, HWV 348 - III. Allegro - Andante – Allegro Antonio Vivaldi - Flute Concerto in D Major, Op. 10 No. 3, RV 428 Il gardellino Allegro, Cantabile and Allegro...

As an appetizer for today, we listen to Rachmaninov’s Prelude in G minor. In today’s programme there are another three works. Two major items and then another shorter work to conclude. The first big work is Rachmaninov’s Variations on a theme of Paganini. Then we hear Liszt's "Variations on a Theme by Paganini, S. 161" (also known as "Paganini Etudes") To round out our programme today we have a ve...

Our theme today is: Music that paints vivid images of the countryside and nature’s beauty. I have nine items for you that capture both the serenity and grandeur of nature, from tranquil streams to soaring landscapes. Ludwig van Beethoven – Pastoral Symphony No. 6, Op. 68 (1st movement: Awakening of Cheerful Feelings on Arrival in the Countryside) Ludwig van Beethoven – Pastoral Symphony No. 6, Op....

Today we are continuing our exploration of the influence of Beethoven on later composers, especially Brahms, by listening to some compositions of each, which are in the popular category of Theme and Variations. Three sets are by Beethoven, based on God Save the King, Rule Britannia, and one of his themes. The other major work today is Brahms’ Theme and Variations on a theme of Handel’s. This, alon...

Today I have 11 items for you, covering the spirit of the dance in a wide variety of styles you are sure to enjoy! 1. Kabalevsky – Comedians’ Galop 2. Strauss II – Pizzicato Polka 3. Bartók – Romanian Folk Dances 4. Piazzolla – Libertango 5. Debussy – Golliwogg’s Cakewalk 6. Saint-Saëns – Danse Macabre 7. Falla – Spanish Dance No. 1 8. Khachaturian – Sabre Dance 9. Borodin – Polovtsian Dances 10....

Today’s programme has the theme Romantic Reflections, and I present for your enjoyment these 12 items which are designed to leave you relaxed and calm. • Scriabin Nocturne in A-flat major • Schubert – Impromptu in G-flat major • Schubert – Impromptu in A-flat major • Fauré – Sicilienne • Tchaikovsky – Waltz from Sleeping Beauty • MacDowell – To a Wild Rose • Franck – Panis Angelicus • Grieg – Wedd...

Beethoven’s Piano Variations and Fugue in E-flat major, Op. 35 (also known as the “Eroica” Variations) and Schumann’s Symphonic Etudes, Op. 13 are two of the most ambitious variation sets of the 19th century. While both works are built on variation techniques, they approach form, texture, and thematic development in distinct ways. Variation techniques allow a composer to demonstrate creativity, te...

This week we will enjoy a programme of “Sundowner” music. Easy listening for the end of the day. The programme: Franz von Suppé – The Light Cavalry Overture Leroy Anderson - The Syncopated Clock Leroy Anderson - The Typewriter Carl Maria von Weber (Arranged by Hector Berlioz) Invitation to the Dance, Op. 65 Dmitri Kabalevsky - The Comedians: Galop Op 26 Paul Dukas - L'Apprenti sorcier Ferdinand Ri...

This week we will enjoy a programme of “Sundowner” music. Easy listening for the end of the day. The programme: Joaquín Rodrigo - Adagio from Concierto de Aranjuez Johann Sebastian Bach - Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068_ II. Air on the G String Erik Satie - 3 Gymnopédies_ No. 1, Lent et douloureux Joseph Haydn - String Quartet in C Major, Op. 76 No. 3, Hob. lll_ 77 Emperor - II. Poco a...

This week we will enjoy a programme of “Sundowner” music. Easy listening for the end of the day. The programme: Mikhail Glinka - Ruslan and Lyudmila Overture Ludwig van Beethoven - Romance for Violin and Orchestra No. 2 in F Major, Op. 50 Johann Strauss II - The Beautiful Blue Danube, Waltz Op. 314 Camille Saint-Saëns - Carnival of the Animals_ XIII. The Swan J.S. Bach_ Concerto for 2 Violins in D...

Robert Schumann’s role as a critic and editor of the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik (New Journal for Music) profoundly impacted the Romantic period's music. Schumann became what we would call today “an influencer.” As both an advocate and commentator, Schumann used his platform to shape musical tastes and promote emerging composers' works. Schumann’s writings helped define the Romantic movement in mus...

Robert Schumann’s role as a critic and editor of the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik (New Journal for Music) had a profound impact on the music of the Romantic period. Schumann became what we would call today “an influencer.” As both an advocate and commentator, Schumann used his platform not only to shape musical tastes but also to promote the works of emerging composers. Schumann’s writings helped de...

Today we look at the influence that Beethoven had on future composers, and today specifically on Schumann who was himself an influential musical giant, and editor of the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik, a new and most important and influential journal. Beethoven’s influence on the generations of composers who followed him was monumental. He bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, transforming music in...

Today we look at the influence that Beethoven had on future composers, and today specifically on Schumann who was himself an influential musical giant, and editor of the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik, a new and most important and influential journal. Beethoven’s influence on the generations of composers who followed him was monumental. He bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, transforming music in...

And so we enter the New Year 2025 and my wish for each one of you is “Happy New Year, and let it be your best one yet!” Our gentle start to our New Year’s listening is with well-known pieces by Dvorak, Bizet, Rachmaninov, Faure, Brahms, Mozart, Wagner and Elgar. Antonin Dvorak: Slavonic Dance No. 2, Op. 72 Performed by Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks condicted by Rafael Kubelik &middo...

In this programme I present some well-known music which is both inspirational and motivational, so that we can individually meditate about how our 2024 year has been. The music is by Aaron Copeland, Carl Orff, Gustav Holst, Jules Massenet, Samuel Barber, Stanley Myers, Giuseppe Verdi, Johann Strauss, and Joey Tempest. Aaron Copeland: Fanfare for the Common Man “The Presidents Own®” U.S. Marine Ban...

The programme this week is Christmas and Sacred music by John Rutter. There are original compositions and a selection of well-known carols in exquisite arrangements. Please feel free to join me and allow the music to stir the emotions in you in the spirit of the Christmas season! A Christmas Overture Performed by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra · Hark the Herald Angels Sing Performed by Th...

Today we look at Beethoven's influence on future composers, specifically Schumann, an influential musical giant and editor of the Neue Zeitschrift für Musik, a new and most important and influential journal. Beethoven’s influence on the generations of composers who followed him was monumental. He bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, transforming music into a deeply personal and expressive art...

Today we look at the influence that Beethoven had on future composers, and today specifically on Chopin. Beethoven’s influence on the generations of composers who followed him was monumental. He bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, transforming music into a deeply personal and expressive art form and opening the door for further experimentation in structure, harmony, and emotional depth. Ludwi...

Today, we look at Harmonic and Modulation developments in Beethoven’s music. This programme is rather difficult and tricky, but it is well worth paying attention to the information and examples. Beethoven extended these two aspects of composition and set the tone for the next generation of composers in the nineteenth century. Enjoy! Ludwig van Beethoven, Piano Sonata No. 9 in E Major, Op. 14 No. 1...