Essay on Classic Music

        The concert took place on the chilly night of 16 November 2018 in Partridge hall of the First Ontario Arts center on the Paul Street. The performer for the concert is world renowned and famous pianist David Jalbert. The stage is all set up as we see in the movies with the keyboard placed in the middle and curtains hanging on the side of the stage. People are seated by facing towards the stage. It is my first time in a concert where solely piano will be played. Although there was no dress code specific for the people to follow many people are wearing suits and tuxedos.

        Due to cold weather, many are wearing coats to the concert. It is my first time at a concert where the only the piano will be played. People are excited and dressed for the moment. The general mood for the audience is anticipating for what is to come. People seem to be well aware of what is to come and they are in the concert to enjoy to the fullest. The lighting was apt for the night and mood. The concert was more than just a musical night but an experience.

        The start of the performance began with pleasantries exchanged by the performer but the start was dull. It was dull but not boring. It was then Robert Schumann's Waldszenen opus 82 that grabbed my attention. The mood of this specific performance was an emotional ride. It helped me realize the variety of melodies and tempo that a piano performance can set. The measurements were set as telling a story and the tone helped it carry through. The music was of different variety throughout. At no point, it was annoying but interesting and exciting. The performance made me reflect the underlying meaning of the melodies

        I had not been much familiar with the work of Prokofiev but amongst the circle of pianist, he is an important figure whose work is admired by all. The final measurements as I expected were to be the best as they were going to close the concert. It started with the same tempo as the start, "Allegro inquieto", it provided the beginning to the concept and build up. There was a suspense melody with the tone leading to another. It was a relaxing sound that was bringing a smile on the face of the audience.

        Also, it is of worthy importance that David Jalbert's expressions and performance had the audience on the edge of seats and anxious for the measurement to end so they could clap. The transitions between the measurements were fine and smooth. They did not break the rhythm. The final part, precipitator, was the juice of the performance. It had a thrilling melody with the tone variation. It did not end the concert on a dull note but heightened expectation and moreover adding to the desire of people to want more. David's indulgence in the performance throughout the piece was what kept the spirit of the act alive.

    David Jalbert was a different kind of performer than many others I have known or heard about. He engaged the audience and during the transitions wouldn't be shy to have small talk. He told about his experience as a professor and how he learns from his students. He would tell what to expect and highlight his favorite parts. If not by words he would engage by his gestures with people. The overall feel about his performance was very personal.

    He is young and energetic which reflects in his personality. He would give a brief intro about the pieces he was to perform building up the anticipation. Overall the concert was very knowledgeable and he motivated people to learn the art of playing the piano. He made it look easy and never seemed uncomfortable while playing the piano. David enjoys the work he does and he is able to transfer his energy to the audience who find it hard to resist not appreciating him and giving him applause.

    If I am to truly conclude my feelings about this concert then I will do it by saying that this concert has ignited my interest in piano and the performance relating to it. I enjoyed the concert and my favorite piece was the Schumann's composition as it had the variation and David Jalbert was on point in execution.

    I learned about the diversity of the piano and how what seem just a few keys can make different music affecting the mood of any individual. My perception of music has evolved after this concert. It had made me realize and connect with different forms of art. An instrumental piano performance without any said lyrics can convey different meanings and story on its own. Music is about the state of mind and not everyone can use the talent on the piano to convey such stories.