This week on Ether Game's Weekly Podcast, the Brain Trust explores music in the academy with a very intellectual show we're calling "The Ivory Tower!" Can you name this educational tune? Remember to keep your ears out for a portion of Tuesday night's Teaser selection. And don't forget to tune into the full show on Tuesday, November 28th at 8:00pm for a chance to win a prize!
S amuel Barber (1910–1981): THE SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL OVERTURE
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra; Yoel Levi, conductor. Barber: Knoxville: Summer Of 1915 (Telarc)
Barber's overture to The School for Scandal reflects the emotions and plot elements of its source material, the play of the same name by Irish playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan. Sheridan's play is one of the best comedies of the 18th century, a play that's not about academia, but rather explores social issues while placing the characters in hilarious and awkward situations. It must have made an impression on Barber because this overture was his first work for full orchestra. Written as he was completing his musical studies at the highly prestigious Curtis Institute of Music, this was the work put Barber on the map. It won the Bearns Prize of Columbia University in 1933, and it was premiered by none other than the Philadelphia Orchestra that same year! Talk about a good start!