Tackling & Translating Mussorgsky’s “Pictures” feat. Noah Alden Hardaway
There’s always something new to see and hear in “Pictures at an Exhibition.” It’s one of the most famous pieces in the repertoire, especially in Ravel’s orchestration, but in the 21st century we’re a long way from Mussorgsky’s world, and it takes some digging to unearth the whole fabric of Russian culture that gave rise to this masterpiece. Hartmann’s famous paintings are just the tip of the iceberg.
Join tonebase’s own Assistant Head of Piano, Noah Alden Hardaway, for a close look at how Mussorgsky’s vision for “Pictures” was colored by Russian folk poetry, satirical literature critiquing society, and the rising tide of realism in all fields of art (and special looks at related works of music). All this, plus detailed, practical tips on how to actually wrap your brain and fingers around this ungainly masterwork!
Find the start time in your time zone by clicking the photo or following this event link:
https://app.tonebase.co/piano/live/player/mussorgsky-translating-with-noah-hardaway-1
We are going to be using this thread to gather suggestions and questions!
- What questions do you have on this topic?
- Any particular area you would like me to focus on?
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I was able to watch this today. Thank you, Noah! I thoroughly enjoyed your presentation!
You said, "Vignettes are more than the sum of their parts" - Indeed!
Music expresses the "Cosmopolitan nature of Viktor Hartmann’s travels" - Very interesting!
I found it fascinating to hear you speak of the international languages/cultural components of the work...Russian, Italian, Latin, French, Polish, Hebrew, Latin, again, Russian...".
Massive exhibition of Hartmann’s work - I had not realized the grandeur of it. I liked hearing about your parents' photography exhibition and your tireless efforts to make it happen. Dedication!
Tourist and a pilgrim...
Camera angle – very good
Borrowed form from poetry
Music reflective of church practices or call and answer from the fields...
Russian bell chorus - I really loved hearing this!
Emotional or heartfelt climax at the end...yes...And you played it wonderfully! As you did throughout!
Thank you, again! Bravo! Very enriching!