Perceptive Insight 15

Conductor Sir John Barbirolli equated contemporary music to "three farts and a raspberry, orchestrated." He wasn't far wrong in many cases.

Perceptive Insight 14

"In 1912, the London Symphony Orchestra was the first British orchestra to visit the United States, only narrowly avoiding travelling on the Titanic."

Brahms? Oh... HIM.

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Do you like the music Brahms wrote? Have you even heard of Brahms? You'll probably recognize some of his music if you heard that, at least. In the growth of 'the symphony' he immediately followed Beethoven, and had a hard time doing so. Brahms' first symphony took 20 years to compose and was often referred to as "Beethoven's 10th" (Beethoven wrote 9 symphonies).

A preview to an LSO concert series last season reveals what orchestral musicians think. In this video find out what Andre Previn considers "insane", and what Tchaikovsky thought of his contemporary! Most revealing:

WNYC - Soundtracking Surgery

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We all know music has unexplainable benefits/use for our daily lives. This program discussed using music in the surgery room and hospitals:

WNYC - Soundcheck: Soundtracking Surgery (January 08, 2010)

My response:

"Such a fascinating subject. As a conductor of a variety of styles (including some contemporary rock/pop, theater & film music as well as classical), I find it intriguing that music has so far not played a more integral part in all our lives. The psychological, emotional and physical benefits of PARTICIPATING in music (listening as well as performing) far outweigh our understanding... so why don't we embrace it in everyday life? I like that Dr Conrad is formalizing reasons why we should.

"Some of my concerns, however, are not just bad associations (the reason why someone died whilst listening to a particular song could be interpreted a number of different ways) but using music to lull people into unconsciousness - such as Mozart. I'm afraid that we have a generation of children who will fall asleep whenever they hear the slow movement of a Mozart symphony or concerto when, in fact, they are missing out on an incredible aural, emotional & meditative journey! There are also dangers in using music to subdue (or inspire) behaviour as a background medium - in shopping malls, stores, and even public lavatories!

"We should remember: There's more to music than music. Isaac Stern is reported to have said, "Playing music in America you feel like you're selling a luxury item. But in England you're providing a necessity." Maybe he's right - maybe in the USA we should incorporate music into our lives far more than we do. It is obvious that certain music works to everyone's benefit in the hospital environment. Well done!"

Perceptive Insight 13

"Wilberforce knew somebody had detuned a string on his viola. He just couldn't be sure which one."

The Quotable Stephen P Brown

Thanks must go to Christopher Swann for this one:

"The plural of orchestra is 'Berlioz'."

Orchestral Common Sense?

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What's this? Someone again talking common sense? Perhaps our failed economic structure prompts the publication of the murmuring quiet undertones amongst those who see reality.

Good on yer, Mr. Kaiser! Raise that question mightily high.

Does the Symphonic Orchestra Model Work?

Not financially, is the answer. Solution? I have some ideas, but nothing anyone would ever take seriously, particularly as there are unions involved on all sides. Hmmm. Therein lies its own problems, perhaps.

A man after my own perspective!

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Having very rarely subscribed to many conducting industry propoganda-norms, especially the politics (perhaps one of the primary reasons for the lack of a 'successful' full-time conducting career), I am extremely pleased to have heard this:

Just heard on a British classical music radio station that the vastly-recorded Valery Gergiev prefers to perform with an orchestra just slightly under-rehearsed. Apparently he thinks that over-rehearsal (which to a British musician means more than once, perhaps twice) is the bane of orchestral life, and he likes to keep musicians on their toes: a concert with some 'wits' about it produces a far better experience for everyone.

Yippee! Finally, concordance from an established household name!!!
I feel justified in another of my own perspectives, at last.

It's still exciting...

I still get a thrill from being on the radio! Thank you, Dave, of Star 99.1 FM!

Click here to listen to the segment.

BTW - Dave is really good at editing, too ;-)

Christmas & Summer Concert British-style Brass Band!

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In lieu of a monthly newsletter, I am inviting you to "have your say" regarding one of the most delectable, smooth & brilliant community-based concepts the human soul could ever experience, and consider an idea that has been presented to me several times, particularly in the past few months. Your global/ worldly influence and direct input will ensure the correct, focused, and passionate formation of a British-style Brass Band in Northern NJ.

"What is a British-style Brass Band?" I hear some of you ask.

Brass Bands in the UK and the Commonwealth began in the mines and collieries of the Midlands around 1810, and now consist of 26 specific instruments and players, including three versatile percussionists. All performing members are volunteers who dedicate their time and talent to pursuing a perfect performance, either in community concerts or in regional and national competitions against other bands. Please read this excellent article by Douglas Yeo (trombonist, Boston Symphony Orchestra) about his experience with a British Brass Band.

It has been suggested that my own experiences playing for several different brass bands in the UK (primarily The Medway Brass Band and Aveley & Newham Brass Band) along with 20+ years training as a conductor, will help develop a new British-style Brass Band in Northern NJ. Alongside the Princeton Brass Band, the Imperial Brass Band, the Atlantic Brass Band, and the ever-growing NABBA, this new ensemble will provide Northern NJ communities (and beyond through CDs & DVDs) with their own creamy* resource for Christmas and Summer concerts.

Please do two things:
1. Answer the five questions in this initial survey, and
2. Encourage as many musicians, community supporters and volunteers as you can to complete the survey, whether or not they live in NJ! You can forward this email, or post the link below in a blog or on Facebook!

http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2l1cq9rfzyd22y0/start

Thank you. With sufficient people also excited about this tremendous opportunity, it will not be long before we are able to form, fund and furnish a heart-warming band that many local communities can utilize for a great many reasons!

Please ALSO forward this post to all brass & percussion players, teachers & students in your realm of influence.

Here's a video compilation of a few British-style Brass Bands performing in the Netherlands in 2005:


*as described by Christopher Swann.

Amateur Excellence

I've often been chastized by close friends and colleagues for being a perfectionist, and I've stopped referring to my musical experiences in the UK because they have caused resentment and responses along the lines of: "we're not good enough for you", or "of course the British are so much better than everyone else", or even "you really are mightier than thou." Serious Ouchness. (anyone who can claim to know me well knows how much this hurts).

So rather than share my stories and offer reasons why I like things to be done with our best possible efforts, I just do it. If the results are excellent, Great! If they're not, that's OK too. Yes, I compromise and justify it as 'survival' (!). It's also very interesting to witness so much trendy talk about 'excellence' without any backing commitment to it. I guess one needs to understand what excellence is before one can even attempt to achieve it!

So, I was pleased, VERY pleased to recently come across this article by Douglas Yeo, a US professional musician who witnessed first hand, the kind of musical environment I grew up in. His article has given me confidence and a little satisfaction that I'm OK - I'm alright. The things I worry about are worth worrying about, regardless of what friends & peers often say. Almost beaten to the ground, this article came at the right time to boost my spirits, and I truly look forward to maintaining the pursuit of excellence Douglas himself experienced.


This is one of the brass bands I played for in the UK, The Medway Band. At the back center is my dear friend Mark Andrew, and one of my ex-students, Richard Scarff is now playing for Aveley & Newham - another band I often played with. Good on ya, boys! Keep up the great playing...


I have often felt that the amateur brass band scene in the UK is one of the most intriguing outlets of self-expression that exists, and through it I learned much about dedication, hard work, loyalty, EXCELLENCE, team-work, reliability, presentation, my role amongst others, and society: although fierce enemies on the competition stage, players from different bands will drink beer and laugh together with players from many other bands (usually about conductors, I might add) but all are welcome! The real kick in the teeth? These players engage in these qualities by choice. For Free. At their own will. They're not paid, forced by gov't, or have nothing else to do. Remarkable, endearing, and very convincing.

It's ironic that as I make contacts in the USA brass band world, Doug's name came up as a potential resource! Timing is everything, and I am still convinced nothing is coincidental.

Go on, be a daredevil: don't settle for anything less from yourself. You can accomplish amazing things with the right guidance, so give up any self-centered-ness, and allow perfection to shine through you.

JSO rehearsals

Who can complain?

Tonight's rehearsal in NYC was moved upstairs, to the church's top floor. This was our view of the Manhattan Bridge:




And this was our view of mid-town:




By the time we were done, here's what that same view looked like:




Hope to see you at Sunday's concert!
(Prokofiev's "Peter & the Wolf", James Chapel at 121st & Broadway, 06.07.09 at 3:15pm)

What a birthday weekend treat! Melissa and I singing at Carnegie Hall with some friends (and a couple hundred strangers), along with a world famous composer (John Rutter)! It was a terrific day.


This is for my sister. Sorry we didn't eat at 'your' cheescake deli, but we'd already ordered


Melissa in front of the building
(She shines up real nice, right?)


M doesn't like this pic.
I do ;-)


GREAT PIC!


Here we are waiting to enter through the stage door (Not my first time, but here I was fully dressed BEFORE I went in!)


And here we go...


Melissa & Dena in the green room


Twould be nice to have some pics of the stage/ performance, but Carnegie is a union hall and the concert promoter didn't arrange for any photos to be taken (plus, it would cost a fortune!)

JSO & SPB - a transformation

Kamel Boutros, the Music Director of Calvary St George Church on Park Ave S & 21st st in NYC said, "You've transformed this orchestra."

Last night's performance was my first with the Jubilee Symphony Orchestra as its Artistic Director. Kamel has conducted them before and also appeared as a soloist with them. His comment was genuine and transformed my confidence from 'am I ever going to be a decent conductor again?' to 'Cool! I'm still good at my job!'

Also genuine was the audience's surprising response... in fact, I had to ask my wife if what I heard was true or if my ego was awash with pride. First, some context:
This concert was in New York City on a Saturday night - we were competing with the NYPhil, the Met, a Carnegie Hall recital, etc, etc. We were also performing at the same time Joel Osteen was in town. Not all our members are professional musicians, and attracting an audience was tough from day one. The fact that it would be an audience from a tough [read: critical] town didn't help. HOWEVER! About 300 people did turn up, and they applauded.

Here's my observation: When finishing each of the pieces I conducted, I turned and bowed (the traditional manner of saying 'thank you for listening'). I turned and got the orchestra to their feet, thanked them, then faced the audience again. The applause seemed to increase in volume, dramatically. This is unusual. It would indicate that the audience enjoyed the performance but specifically appreciated the conductor's efforts to produce excellent music and not get in the way by dancing around the podium. This reaction caused me to smile - no, beam - and not letting it get to my head I asked Melissa if I did actually hear an increase in applause volume. She said yes, and reported that the audience did enjoy my music making.

Phew! I haven't lost it! And then Kamel's compliment helped round off the buzz.

Unfortunately, I didn't press 'record' on the video camera before the first half so I missed capturing the VERY BEST piece on the program - which was played well (Faure: Masques & Bergamasques), but here's a little bit of the second half (Honegger: Pastorale D'Ete) in which I had my work cut out for me: the flute player got lost, and the violins got ahead. At least we ended together!



You know, I thoroughly enjoyed last night's concert, and really appreciate the support of all the players, Chris & Miriam, the usher hanging out in the lobby watching me pace during pieces I wasn't conducting, Ginny the Chorus Director, Kamel for the use of his venue, and Melissa & her friend Rachel for their patient support - I was distracted all day and even sang a little "I'm annoyed" ditty in the car when we got stuck in traffic and I was 20mins late.

Ah well. All in all a good first concert, methinks. I'm REALLY looking forward to this orchestra's future (including all nine Beethoven symphonies in one year!).

Bliss 9 - an arts festival

This is a head's up - a private insight into a forthcoming event of mine. AND, quite an exciting event, too.

Bliss 9 is an arts festival in Morris County, NJ. For one night only, you'll enjoy experiencing a whole variety of art forms including concerts, a dance show, painters, jewelry makers and sculptors... and my jazz orchestra. Buy your tickets online in advance, and they're $29. On the day, they'll be $36, so I'd rather you buy them online (after Feb 1).

The event itself is on Friday, April 3 beginning at 6pm, with the live performances beginning at 8pm. Where? At the Hanover Marriott hotel on Route 10. Nice.

Oh, and there are a couple of spots left for exhibitors, but you should check out all the details on http://www.blissfestival.com/

It's worth saving up for, and bringing a couple of neighbors to, as well!

SEE YOU THERE

Perspective

Our entire life is one big fat glob of perspective, right?

Without perspective we have no vision, common sense (Pah!), purpose, feeling, desire, or reason.

Without perspective no-one would argue, call each other pathetic, 'persuade' others (the path to war), or vote.

Without perspective how would we learn, grow, serve, earn, or laugh?

The sudden passing of someone at age 60 because of a heart attack is nothing out of the ordinary - past or present - however sad. So why is it that we mourn the death of one person over another? Perspective. Indeed it is extremely sad to see classy British conductor Richard Hickox deprived of breath during the pinnacle of his career (in much the same way as comedian Tommy Cooper - wait for the musical joke at the end), but that's just my perspective. As well as that of a few hundred thousand others (read one of Tommy Pearson's many claims to fame here).

Perspectives develop with age, wisdom, that fantastic recurring anathema Common Sense, and circumstance. Religion vs. faith is all about perspective. Self vs. non-self is all about perspective (for self, refer to Western Civilization. For non-self, refer to Wikipedia). Jog vs. eat is a completely MAD perspective. To me, anyway.

On Saturday I was invited to chat with an esteemed mentor-ish type of person who, if circumstances were different, would be far more well-known, impacting and exciting that Hickox, Karajan, and even Lenny Bernstein. At least from my perspective. OK, 21 years ago George Marriner Maull was an inspiring teacher I got to 'experience' once a week while he imparted his PERSPECTIVE on listening vs. hearing, particularly in traditional 'classical' concert music. It affected me profoundly then, as it does now. In fact, George makes a living at it now. GOOD FOR HIM. I wish I had the resources to help explode The Discovery Orchestra into the global stratosphere of fundamental humanness.

Anyway, on Sat. George was characteristically generous with his time, knowledge, and perspective: 'Unvarnished' was his term. As always, I have a lot to learn, and much ego to dissolve (But that's just my perspective. NOT). And yet almost a week later I am still encouraged and looking forward to the rest of my life. (Of course, somewhat reducing the bad cholesterol levels will probably help). God bless you, George! May the State of NJ realize their funding is woefully misdirected. (Again, common sense: NJSO direclty reaches approx. 120,000 people per year. TDO's endeavors have reached approx. 37 million individuals. Duh.)

GO DISCOVERY ORCHESTRA !
(formerly the Philharmonic Orchestra of New Jersey).

Back on the BBC

It's been a while. Years. Probably 10 years if could be bothered to count, but at last I was back on the airwaves via BBC Radio Kent this morning. And I mean this morning. Dominic King's show is 10am-1pm weekdays. That's 5am-8am in NJ.

So v. nice Mr. Producer Steve called me at 6:20am for a coffee-induced attempt at being awake and conversant for an on-air interview w/ Dom. Listen to the interview on my web site here: http://www.stephenpbrown.com/blog.html. I was impressed w/ Dom's open-ended questions and he seemed to listen, too. Rather refreshing! Here's to re-establishing relations at my fave local radio station.

It's Official - Artistic Director of the JSO in NYC!

From: http://www.pr.com/press-release/110515

The Jubilee Symphony Orchestra is Delighted to Announce the Appointment of Stephen P Brown to the Orchestra’s Recently Created Position of Artistic Director

New York, NY, October 12, 2008 -- Known for thrilling performances and a wide variety of musical styles, Mr. Brown will conduct the orchestra for most of its performances in New York City.

Reviving, establishing and growing musical disciplines have provided Stephen P Brown with unique qualifications that are beginning to be noticed in the big league classical music circuits. Currently Musical Director of the Jacksonville Chapel Concert Band, Mr. Brown has been quietly developing a leadership maturity to match that of his international musical youth. In its silver jubilee year, he is leading the JCCB into the 21st century by coordinating an online presence, incorporating media and technology into concerts, popularizing attentive participation by audiences, and developing a branded identity.

Once described by George Hurst as being “too nice to be a conductor”, Mr. Brown has learned how to employ his optimism, enthusiasm and encouraging spirit on the podium, industriously sculpting colorful and energetic musical encounters. He will maintain his position as Musical Director of the Jacksonville Chapel Concert Band.

With regards to the Jubilee Symphony Orchestra Mr. Brown said, “The opportunity to engage some of the USA’s premium talent in a quest to share God’s angelic gift of music is irresistible. It was the orchestra’s ambition to combine New York City’s refined and developing classical music populations to present traditional and participative works that attracted me to seek this privilege, and help unleash the city’s quiet and reserved fondness of stirring and spiritual orchestral music.”

Mr. Brown’s open-ended contract testifies to the orchestra’s belief in his ability to grow and maintain its presence in a complex culture now needing stability more than ever. This is Mr. Brown’s first major orchestral appointment in the USA, succeeding Kamel Boutros who held the position of Music Director earlier this year.

Born in Rochester, England, Stephen P Brown began playing piano at age 7, soon followed by clarinet and percussion. His first public appearance as a conductor was in New Jersey at age 16, and after earning a percussion performance degree from Trinity College of Music at age 18 he became the UK’s first undergraduate conducting student. Since then he’s conducted the London Philharmonic Orchestra, the Griffin Orchestra of London, Ealing Choral Society, worked with the Halle and BBC Philharmonic Orchestras, and was Musical Director of the Medway Chamber Orchestra and Kent Youth Percussion. He has toured Romania, Hungary, the Czech Republic, France, Portugal, Holland, as well as Malawi and Zambia, and also served as the Musical Director for the Kentish Players, Spotlites Theatre, and Ballet Rambert Education. After reviving the music department at Sittingbourne Community College in 1999, the UK government recognized Mr. Brown’s management style as ‘exemplary’.

In addition to his own compositions, some of the world premieres conducted by Mr. Brown include Antonin Tucapksy’s “Triptychon”, works by Mathew Power and Simon Gaughan, as well as the European premiere of Australian composer Ross Edward’s “Dawn Mantras” as part of the UK’s Millennium Festivities.

The Jubilee Symphony Orchestra is a ministry of Jubilee Missions, founded in Los Angeles in 2002. With an international presence, Jubilee Missions provides music, dance and media support for all denominations of the Christian faith. In particular, the Jubilee Symphony Orchestra works closely with churches throughout New York City and is also embarking on presenting its own program of annual events including children’s and choral concerts, a massive praise event and an annual invitation-only dinner hosted by the Artistic Director.

“We are excited about Mr. Brown’s involvement in our organization. In alignment with our mission, Mr. Brown will be building a platform for local artists to use their gifts for God with excellence and a Christian worldview”, said Christopher Chou, Director of Jubilee Missions New York.

Contact Information
Jubilee Missions
Jonathan Sesman
Tel: 212-602-9904
Cell: 347-754-8694
eventsny@jubileemisions.org
http://www.jubileemissions.org/

Big-time Time-beater Bashing

THIS LINK links to an article by Tommy Pearson that bashes the Berlin(ER) Philharmonic(ER) and Simon Rattles' performances at the British Proms earlier this month. Below is my brief response. I couldn't resist. Read Tommy's article first.

Always wondered what the Big Rattling Deal was about - especially hearing stories from his players over the years. I used to assume it was jealousy on my innocent arrogant part. LOL! But then if you (Rattle) win a major competition at age 19, what else should we expect, I guess? I shouldn't impugn. It's hard work and my hat comes off to everyone who prepares and performs. But Tommy - I have to agree with you. With the salaries these folks get, the experience, the exposure to every great performer ever... is the BP passioned out? Or was emotional conveyance never in their musical vocab? Great warm string sound. At times. As does the Philharmonia, the BBC Phil, the Cleveland Orch, the Philadelphia, the... Even in their own 'GROSS' hall I was never particularly impressed by the BP. It's comforting to know I'm not alone anymore. THANK YOU.

Conducting Careers

Life has many funny turns (and a few that aren't quite so funny): Having mentioned to my dearest Melissa that a Conductor's career usually won't take off until he/she is in their mid-fifties, we realized I could, yet, embark upon a conducting career again. Wouldn't that be cool? As I rapidly skid towards 40 we figured... "Why not?" So I made a couple of phone calls. After all, why not?

Three emails later, and I've got two hits and one not interested. 66% success rate. The Jubilee Orchestra in Manhattan just so happens to be seeking a new Conductor - negotiations are progressing well and I might end up as Prinicpal Conductor, or even Artistic Director! Gulp. Then, a visionary, gun-ho, 'let's do it' type of artist manager based in Nashville has lavished upon me sufficient ego-boosting compliments and awe to the extent that I was sold and we are now establishing all the necessary backup support - a non-profit organization, book publishing schedule, branding, a decent website (far more creative than my own designs - sorry if you missed them in the past!) as well as a couple of intriguing industry first-ideas. More to come on those.

So, after a month sitting at home desperately trying to avoid a relapse into pneumonia, here I am slugging through my corporate day-job to make sure the basic administrative tasks for my concert band are in place (we have a Silver Jubilee Gala Concert on Oct 19) and then desperately reading up on the legal implications of charity. Phew! It's intriguing, attractive work coz at the end of it I know it'll all enable me to do what I REALLY enjoy, what I spent YEARS training to do, and most importantly, what helps others realize their own gifts (playing & listening to music) and giving those gifts a purpose. Conducting orchestras, choirs, theatre bands, etc, etc.

LOVE IT. Thank you, God, for this surprising turn of events. Who knows... maybe You intend this to actually happen!