My Favorite Classical Music

This page lists some of my favorite classical composers and some related thoughts, links, etc.

Antonín Dvořák

An oldie but a goodie. Probably still my favorite composer. He's what got me interested in Czech music, language, and culture. See the website dedicated to him.

Dmitri Shostakovich

I've mostly just listened to his string quartets, but I'm starting to get into his symphonies too! You should check out:

• Shostakovich: the string quartets
• Shostakovich - How to Compose Music Despite [ R E D A C T E D ] - The famous Tantacrul video that got me into Shosty in the first place.

Leoš Janáček

Oh, great pán Janáček, the king of Moravian classical music. It is a difficult feat to find a composer with an energy and vigor equal to his. I'm pretty sure he's a little off his rocker, but like in a fun way. He's my classical Funcle, if you will. Here are some links:

• www.leosjanacek.eu
• Janáček and the art of reaching a climax

Josef Suk

Bottom line: I think Josef Suk is massively underrated. His earlier works are so sweet and soulful, and beautifully orchestrated. And his later works, while definitely an acquired taste, are just truly spectacular. Some links:

• Sound and Structure in Josef Suk's "Zrání" - This one really helped me understand what was going on better in Zrání/The Ripening, and appreciate just how amazing this work really is.

Jean Sibelius

Bedřich Smetana