The True Inspiration of Live Music

On a recent trip to Des Moines, Iowa I had the distinct pleasure of enjoying a live classical symphony: the Des Moines Symphony playing Beethoven's Pastoral symphony and selections from Rimsky-Korsakov.  I am not a huge classical music fan, my rock and roll roots have a firm grip on my listening favorites, but the impact a symphony such as this could change my mind and at least broaden my horizons.

When I was in school, my sister played violin (quite well I might add!) and I remember going to concert after concert listening to renditions of classical music.  At that time I remember enjoying them, but sometimes getting bored...sitting and attentively listening as best any teenager can at that age.  I just wanted to get home and blast Zeppelin, Aerosmith or The Who.   In high school and part of my college days I remember going to numerous rock concerts and was always thrilled by the light shows, favorite songs and the intense "experience" of a live band.  No matter how good your stereo is, you just can't beat the sound of a bass guitar and drums that you feel from your toes up. Back in the day, I remember some concerts that the pot smoke blanketed the air so heavily, that you could get high just from inhaling.  But, that is fodder for a whole other story.....some other day.

The Rolling Stones

     The idiosyncrasies of a live performance is very evident in both classical and rock performances.  Yet, sometimes Rock sounds better with the advantage of studio technicians to mix , blend and perfect the musicians performance. Listening to a CD of classical music just does not capture the brilliance and significance of the sound. When studios and mixing boards are a part of the recording, the unique sounds of each individual instrument is sometimes lost in the mix.  Most classical orchestras have a larger number of instruments to achieve the full sound that is desired with each composition.  It may sound a little silly, but for this reason, I love watching all the violin bows pop up and down in perfect synchronization...it makes the music come alive. Yes, that does sound silly, but next time you go to a classical concert-check it out and you will know what I mean.
     I truly believe that when it comes to classical music: live performances are so much better. Yet, sometimes at home listening to a CD is better for the Stones, Black Eyed Peas, Bruno Mars and countless other rock/pop favorites in my collection. I am also a fan of Michael Jackson, but I won't be seeing him in concert anytime soon. (very sad)  The benefits to recorded music and having  a library of favorites at your disposal is incredibly valuable, but never underestimate the soul enhancing experience of a live performance.  Rock on, my friends.