Well, today’s my birthday!
And to celebrate — this link goes to a bagatelle by Stravinsky, a composer I love more than I know how to say.
It’s his Greeting Prelude, which is an arrangement of a tune that…oh, you’ll recognize it. Twisted into smiling new shapes. Reminds me of films I’ve seen, in which Stravinsky, talking about music he loves, just radiates joy.
This is a big one for me — 70. And I run around the house, chasing my little boy, while he squeals with delight. I’ve never felt younger.
As this new year of my life goes on, ‘ll remember how joyful Stravinsky could be. And decide to be that way myself.
Happy birthday! And thanks for the Stravinsky. I always loved that piece and it’s been awhile since I’ve heard it.
Happy Birthday Greg and I hope you celebrate it in a wonderful and joyous way – Californian Pinot Noir is excellent.
I seem to remember a story about the Greeting Prelude being played at a concert, a few months after its premiere, on Stravinsky’s birthday and he didn’t recognise it. However I don’t have the best memory in the world and there are many unreliable stories around about composers.
Happy wonderful birthday!!!!! Hoping your summer is spectacular! Alecia
Still a youngster !!!! very best to you ……….
Happy birthday (a little late, sorry). Down here we play this piece first thing in the morning of any birthday that comes around. Within the family, that is.
Thanks so much for reminding us of this little gem! When I first moved to NYC in 1975, the late, great radio station WNCN used the Stravinsky as the opening music for one of their shows. I had never encountered it before then. Loved it so much that when, a few years later, I found myself conducting the in-school concerts for the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra – I put it in the concert. I would ask the young audience members: “Who has a birthday today?” As the hands went up I’d say: “This one’s for you!” And we’d launch into it. Hope you HAD a wonderful birthday celebration. And thanks for the many wonderful thoughts and observations you regularly share with us!