Classical Music: The Hard Sell

Love the classical music ad. I think that classical music is so underrated, and there certainly aren't enough sites out there dedicated to this type of music. Well, there is a great resource for classical music lovers, they should check out the Classical Music Forum. This forum is focused on classical music, but also on other eras, this forum hosts musicians and composers who offer lessons, critiques and advice. Also, an aid for music composition can be found here:

Notation Software Music Editor & Music Maker - Personal Composer. I use this software to compose my own music, and it is very intuitive. Listen for yourself, you can even listen to my Piano Music Compositions right here. I hope you enjoy.

Steve,

In a word: wow! I can’t believe you can do that to me in two minutes. Your passion, knowledge, and humor all come through your inviting and inticing voice and have me craving more. I enjoy your cozy, approachable style and can tell you have some fresh, personal insights to share about something close to your heart. I want to be there when that happens, so add me to the podcast I hope you start. Congrats on the People’s Choice recognition! I can’t wait to hear you on the air! You deserve it.

Kristy

Excellent approach to a musical genre that is struggling to be heard in our modern world of sensory overload and short attention spans. Great concept, voice, and composition. Other than a few minor mixing quibbles (and those are easily corrected), a perfect clip for this speed dating service.

...but I did. A lot. Consider me one of the converted. And you have exactly the presence that I would feel comfortable taking the journey with. Not cold, stiff or matter-of-fact at all. But warm and welcoming, without being gooey sweet. Really well done!

Cheers,
Jennifer

Shameless plug:
http://www.publicradioquest.com/audio/user/3290

I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life -- and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted t

I really like the idea of a show that helps the young and old alike develop an appreciation for classical music. Like Steve said "walk backwards with you and point to things along the way."

This is a show that I would listen to!

This is a great idea. I just got the Barenboim DVDs that include master classes -- a little insight into the music itself along with the standard and not-so-standard repertoire and thumbnail composer bio? Who wouldn't be fascinated? And a disarming delivery like yours ought to draw anyone in -- academics in classical radio roll a lot of eyes and grip few listeners I'm afraid. Not too square and not too cool but just right. You're on to something.

Very soothing and pairs well with the music. Great!

http://www.publicradioquest.com/node/1774

i think that so many people don't explore classical music because they just feel they don't know where to begin. jazz, as well, is similarly daunting. you'd do a great service to public radio's listeners by walking them through great works, illuminating beautiful passages and revealing the sometimes hidden craftsmanship. you so clearly love this music, and i hope you get to share that love with as many others as possible and thereby enrich their lives. I, for one, am cd-baby-ing miss lovejoy's records. thanks.

Hey Steve! Great entry!

A man who knows to keep his elbows off the table and refrain from speaking while his mouth is full is definitely someone to take home to mother! Kudos on your appreciation of both great manners and great music.

Thanks for sharing your passion for Classical music and for offering to "guide" those of us who may find it intimidating. You have a wonderful voice and would make a delightful escort for people who are new to the Classical soundscape. So many people enjoy Classical but don't know why or crave to know more and communicate with others who share their passion. You clearly have the gentle touch to lead even a first-time listener to discover the beauty and power of a kind of music that has too little exposure these days.

I agree that music has the power to inspire strength, resilience, joy and curiosity. And it sounds like your show would do much the same. Best of luck to you - I can't wait to hear you on the air!

I used to hate listening to classical radio on those laxative shows the hosts nearly slept through. Not so here...at last something I can sink my teeth into and learn at the same time (much more fun than a forced march). Hearing your voice is like having a friend leading a private tutorial. It opens up a new, colorful world. Great selections, too. Good luck!

Love your show concept, Steve, and your uncommon approach, as you put it, to the music. I have often felt it a shame that more isn't explained about the classical works that are heard on public stations. Knowing about the music and how it was created & why gives it so much more meaning, brings the music to life. And I agree with you that Lovejoy's recordings are fantastic. Thanks for sharing this idea & the great music. - Joy

http://www.publicradioquest.com/node/800
http://www.joyfulnoise.net

It's young. It's quirky. It's soothing. It's fun! Classical music loves you!

"Give me chastity and continence, but not yet."
- Saint Augustine (354-430)

http://www.publicradioquest.com/audio/7689
http://www.OurMissBrooks.blogspot.com

You nailed it!
I was amazed and delighted that in two minutes you were able to express in content and experience what you are inspired to do..."awaken curiosity"
for those of us who are new to the art and guide new folks and patrons alike more deeply into the world of classical music to experience "its mystery". To the readers of this site, I am someone who has already benefited from Steve's gifted ability to transmit classical music's intricacies in a manner that has allowed me to drop my inhibitions and descend into the experience. Classical music has enriched my life.
Thank you Steve and I look forward to hearing you on the air.
Pat Krawczyk

You make classical music appealing to the masses. Didn't sound like a hard sell at all. Thanks for the selection tips.
Jim Barfuss
http://www.publicradioquest.com/user/2824

“Life is full of surprises. When I looked toward the future in my youth, I did not see myself standing here.” Seymour B. Moore

And I agree with your premise. We're in danger of losing the classical audience, and perhaps you can help reverse that!

Rich Meitin
www.richmeitin.com
http://www.publicradioquest.com/node/1038
Please stop by!

I just love the sound of your voice. It is soothing yet inviting! It would be great to listen to you chat about classical music! Good Luck!

Aww! I think I could feel safe in venturing into the choppy waters of classical music--it's like you put on a cardigan and a nice pair of indoor shoes, ready to guide your guests gently into the surf. Hmmm, I might be mixing my metaphors somewhat. But that's beside the point :)

I hope you are put on the air. Your voice is pleasant and bright - not what I'm used to with classical music. You have nice cadence and enthusiasm as well. I like classical, but need a tour guide, which is the idea of your show. It's vibrant and young and original. Well done Steve! I wish you the best of luck!

This was a GREAT hook into your show idea. Really well produced, great selections, well-read...I can't think of a thing constructive to say about it! I don't know a tremendous amount about classical music, actually, and I'd love to hear a show that was hosted by someone who could infect me with their enthusiasm.
This was great. Good luck to you!

Be Baffled By Bafflegab!-->
www.publicradioquest.com/node/1319

"All I ask is the chance to prove that money can't make me happy" - Spike Milligan

This may very well be the best music show audition audio I've heard - clever, informative, energetic (yet still appropriate for the subject) and a great premise... Your approach is similar to mine - acting as a tour guide of sorts through music that may not be so familiar to many, and a fun ride for those who already love the genre. Classical music could use a proponent like this, and I have a sneaking suspicion the judges are going to agree. I'd wish you luck, but I don't think you'll need it...

Oh - what the hey - good luck, Steve. Well done, my man!

http://www.publicradioquest.com/node/1510

Wonderful job. Enjoyed listening. Best wishes to you!

I love your idea - I haven't heard many (any) classical music shows here yet. Great music choice too. Your passion for classical music definitely comes through. Great job!

I love the choice of music and the way the piece was cut to reflect what you were saying. Exuberant when you were exuberant, mysterious when you were mysterious. You have a wonderful radio voice--very warm and inviting. And the ending was inspired, comparing this snippet of talent to speed-dating. It's almost like you could have a second career as a writer.

Excellent entry. Steve, you can put your elbows on my table any time.