OT: What connection between 4th and 1812

F.James Cripwell · 2010-07-05T13:58:11+00:00

Having thoroughly enjoyed the 4th July concerts yesterday evening, includingthe 1812 Overture, with cannon, I was wondering what the connection was. Itried Googling, with no luck. So for my American friends, why is 1812Overture a major attraction at 4th July Concerts? Jim.

Jul 05, 2010 24 Replies

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Chemiker 16 years ago

Well, it's never been the same since the Grand Old Man gave it up, has it? Fiedler had his special spark.

I keep him in the same box as Pierre Monteux, who knew Stravinsky. And conducted the opening night of Rite of Spring.

Has anyone ever *tried* capturing that spirit with embroidery? It would be difficult, I think. FireBird would be a place to begin, I believe. A really difficult project.

I was lucky enough to attend one of his last concerts, in New Orleans during the late '50's. Monteux was magnificent, even if it was obvious his arthritis would not let him step onto the conductor's stand without assistance. He did well. And was accorded an SO. I would like to think he appreciated it, even from a bunch of Cajun Americans.

Alex

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Cheryl Isaak 16 years ago

Oh dear! but if you some how could make it down, you could meet a whole crew of RCTN'rs!

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Donna Whitman 16 years ago

He was definitely a special kind of person who brought classical music to many people (such as myself at the time) who would have never otherwise listened to it. Despite his talent, John Williams just wasn't a good follow up. I do like Keith Lockhart though. He's young, enthusiastic and has a Fiedler flair for the dramatic.

OMG! That would be well above my skill level but would be something I'd love to see.

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MargW 16 years ago

Jim, there is no connection to our US/Canada War of 1812. The connection is to the Napoleonic Wars and 1812. That's why you hear the Marseilles as a theme.

MargW

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