SHARP #1: Ottorino Respighi: Composer & Musicologist Extraordinaire

On March 10th at 7:00 pm, the ASO will be presenting Something “Old” at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in North Little Rock. This concert will feature the music of Bach, Respighi, and Vivaldi.

I consider myself a pretty knowledgeable classical music fan. I’m generally familiar with the works of Bach. I own a recording of Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons.” But, Respighi? I’d never heard of him until I read the program for the event.

Well, it turns out that Ottorino Respighi was a man of many talents. Indeed, Respighi was renowned as both a composer and a musicologist. As a composer, his pieces were acclaimed for incorporating Russian orchestral color into Italian music. As a musicologist, his area of focus was Italian music from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. These two passions united in his later works, which often drew heavily from music of that period. In fact, “Ancient Airs and Dances,” which will be performed at the event, was based on Renaissance-era lute compositions.

If you find all of this as intriguing as I do, I invite you to attend SHARP’s pre-show event at Flyway Brewery in North Little Rock! Starting at 5:30 pm, Flyway Brewery will be offering SHARP members a dollar off of all pints. This will be a great opportunity to mingle with other like-minded classical music aficionados.

Then, join us as we head over to St. Luke’s to hear some exceptional music!