Spotify playlists recommendations from our musicians to get you through lockdown
A playlist for a relaxing afternoon
Recommended by Michael Posner, viola player
I have found that, obviously, music is the soundtrack for life. Whilst I love classical music and in particular Bach, Mozart and Beethoven, although I could add so many more, when I am relaxing, I tend to listen to non-classical music. Lots of pieces have had an influence in my life, or have a special place in my heart, so choosing just five was a problem, but here goes.
I have left out so many other favourites, so this is a whistle-stop tour. Everyone has to have a number by the Beatles and I have chosen ‘Penny Lane’ for the amazing trumpet solo. I love West Side Story, the best musical of all-time, so ‘America’. I absolutely adore the voice of Ella Fitzgerald, a truly wonderful singer and have chosen ‘My Funny Valentine’. Frank Sinatra also had a sound to die for, so ‘New York, New York’. Finally, I really have a deep affection for the Ink Spots and in particular a song called ‘I’ll never smile again’. All very sentimental, but all really great numbers which I hope you will all enjoy.
A playlist to replenish the soul
Recommended by Julia Desbruslais (Executive Director and co-principal cellist)
I would find it impossible to put together the final and ultimate playlist of my all-time favourite pieces, but some of the ones I have included would definitely be on that list.
I have two absolute favourites that would travel everywhere with me and both are choral works, Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius and Handel’s Messiah. They hold a particularly special place in my heart for many reasons and the better I know them, the more I find to enjoy in them. The other pieces are all masterworks that give me great pleasure to both listen to and play, I hope you enjoy them too!
