Making the most of classical music in London

London is a city blessed with a variety of classical music performances. As mentioned in another article, you can enjoy world-class concerts even on a student budget. However, if you are new to classical music, it might be a bit less straightforward in terms of what and how to appreciate classical music in live concerts. Here are some tips that you might want to consider.

Observe the sonic space

From a sonic analytical approach, the spatial environment and features interact with the sounds being produced within, which constructs a unique and ever-changing listening experience. Apparently, concert venues differ in terms of spatial size, interior height, architectural structure and physical materials. Therefore, the same piece of musical work would generate a different listening experience based on the setting and status of the building. When going into the concert venue, allow yourself to observe and feel the space. How would you describe the environment? Is it cosy, spacious, packed, or inducing a sense of warmth? Second, try to discern the sonic layers before the start of the concert and listen intentionally and attentively. What different sonic elements can you hear? There may be the sounds of chatting, chuckling, tuning, instructions from stewards, central announcements from the venue...etc. This exercise will allow you to warm up your audio sense, engage with the sonic space, and prepare for the concert. 

Feel the music

Many would agree that music is a universal language because it is the language of the heart (Pythagoras, circa 500 B.C.). It expresses emotions and narrates imaginary pictures. When it comes to appreciating this special art form, personally speaking, there are no right and wrong ways to do it. If you want, you can always do some research about the work, its composer, and performers – to have some background understanding. During the concert, you could close your eyes and relate to the narrative of the music (i.e. blossoming flowers for Beethoven's (1801) Spring Sonata). However, even without the narrative, it would be nice enough to just dwell in the feeling as expressed in the music and by the performers to allow yourself to get lost in the musical experience. 

Appreciate the richness of sonic layers and interaction between musicians 

As mentioned, identifying sonic layers could help engage with the sonic environment. If you like doing analysis, you could again discern different sonic elements during the concert. What are the sonic lines that stand out in terms of pitch? Where are they coming from (i.e. string?  woodwinds? If you don't know the name of the instruments, just observe in the scene to see which musicians were making those sounds). What images can you relate to when hearing those sonic lines? And who are producing the middle layers and the baseline?  

Moreover, it's always an enjoyment to appreciate the magic of cooperation and resonance between and among musicians. On-stage no-verbal communication between the conductor and the musicians, as well as between the soloist, the conductor and different parts of the orchestra, is an art in itself. 

In summary, observing the sonic space and identifying different sonic layers could help the audience to immerse in the sonic space. That said, it is essential to note that everyone's listening experience and memory are unique, and there is no absolute way to appreciate a concert. As long as you enjoy it, it is all that matters. 

Dr Jessica Kong

Warden, Passfield Hall