Still Famous After All These Years
Did you “beware the Ides of March” this year? Well, if you’re reading this, you certainly have better luck avoiding disaster than Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator who was stabbed to death by a group of nobles on March 7, making the date infamous. With such a dramatic end to a notable rule, it’s natural […]
A Sneak Peek at Our Next Program
Did you know that the U.S. has more than 400 youth orchestras involving more than 80,000 young musicians? Among them is the Oakland Mills High School Chamber Orchestra, which will perform for us on March 3. Directed by Sarah Castrillon, they’ll showcase their youthful talent by performing a variety of compositions representing several different styles […]
Happy Birthday, John Knowles Paine!
Who is John Knowles Paine, you ask? Only a 19th century man who has been credited as the first American to be widely recognized as a composer, as well as a major influencer of music education in the U.S. This month, let’s take a peek into the life and music of this lesser-known but talented […]
Five Great Films to Enjoy (again)
Perhaps you’ve heard about Maestro, the new movie about composer Leonard Bernstein. Given that the world of classical music is full of drama and passion, the compelling stories of composers, musicians and even instruments have naturally made it to the big screen. Here are five great classical music flicks to dust off and watch during […]
Thanks for the Music
As you’re preparing for Thanksgiving visitors and looking ahead to the December holidays, don’t forget your Turkey Day playlist! In the spirit of the holiday, we invite you to explore these works that were inspired by gratitude. Aaron Copland’s opera, The Tender Land, includes a piece called “The Promise of Living” that’s tailor-made for Thanksgiving. […]
Remembering Two Women of Note
The Atlantic Reed Consort came to Ellicott City in November 2023, and two of the works performed were written by remarkable women composers of the late 19th/early 20th century. Let’s learn more about these two trailblazers! Born in 1893, Lili Boulanger came from a very musical family. Her father and sister were also composers, her […]
U.S. Army Brass Quintet Performs for Appreciative Audience
The Howard County Concert Odyssey was delighted to host the U.S. Army Brass Quintet on Sunday, September 17, at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Ellicott City, Maryland, in a free concert. The Quintet delighted the large crowd with their wonderful performance. The U.S. Army Brass Quintet has gained a reputation as one of the most highly […]
Military Bands: An Entertaining Tradition
When you think about it, isn’t it a little strange that the U.S. military – the preeminent military force in the world – is also so well known for great entertainment? Strange or not, we’re grateful for the tradition. Every branch of our military nurtures musical talent through multiple ensembles, and they perform a variety […]
Happy Birthday, August Composers!
Did you know Leonard Bernstein’s birthday is this month? And Claude Debussy’s birthday as well? Let’s break out the cake and ice cream and celebrate a few of the classical greats! Heinrich Ignaz Franz von Biber, August 12, 1644 Starting off with a composer from way back in the Baroque era, Biber was considered one […]
Canine Crescendos: Classical Works Inspired by Dogs
As we power our way through the so-called dog days of summer, it seems only fitting to reflect on canine influences in classical masterpieces. After all, dogs are an important part of life for many of us today. Surely canine companions have found their way into the hearts of at least a few composers? As […]