Caroline Shaw on Mendelssohn and Possibility
Digest
Caroline Shaw, a violinist, composer, and musician based in New York, discusses her deep connection to the last movement of Mendelssohn's octet. She first heard it at 15 during band camp and credits it with sparking her love for chamber music. Shaw describes the piece as a vibrant and dynamic conversation, highlighting the interplay between the instruments and the sense of unity they achieve. She finds the piece particularly inspiring for its democratic nature, where each musician has their moment to shine, and its ability to evoke a feeling of possibility. Shaw believes that music, like chamber music, can foster a sense of community and shared experience, reminding us of the importance of making space for others and embracing the beauty of life's journey.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the episode and the host, Latif from Radio Lab, who sets the stage for the exploration of unexpected knowledge and the power of music.
Caroline Shaw's Musical Journey
This Chapter features Caroline Shaw, a musician, sharing her personal connection to the last movement of Mendelssohn's octet. She describes her first encounter with the piece at 15 and how it ignited her passion for chamber music. Shaw delves into the musical structure and themes of the octet, highlighting its dynamic interplay between instruments and its democratic nature.
The Importance of Art
This Chapter emphasizes the enduring power of art, particularly music, literature, and freedom of expression. It highlights the role of art in preserving our true selves and finding meaning in life.
Credits and Outro
This Chapter acknowledges the creators and producers of the Open Ears Project podcast, thanking listeners for their support and encouraging them to explore other classical music content.
Keywords
Mendelssohn's Octet
A chamber music composition by Felix Mendelssohn, consisting of eight instruments: two violins, two violas, two cellos, a double bass, and a clarinet. The octet is known for its lively and expressive melodies, intricate harmonies, and dynamic interplay between the instruments. It is a popular piece in the chamber music repertoire and is often performed by amateur and professional musicians alike.
Chamber Music
A genre of classical music typically performed by a small ensemble of musicians, usually between two and ten players. Chamber music is characterized by its intimate and interactive nature, with each musician playing an essential role in creating the overall sound. It is often performed in smaller venues, such as homes or concert halls, and is known for its focus on melody, harmony, and counterpoint.
Caroline Shaw
An American composer, violinist, and vocalist known for her innovative and eclectic musical style. She has won numerous awards, including the Pulitzer Prize in Music for her composition "Partita for 8 Voices." Shaw's music often explores themes of nature, memory, and the human condition, and she is known for her use of unconventional instrumentation and vocal techniques.
Open Ears Project
A podcast that explores the power of music and its impact on our lives. The podcast features conversations with musicians, composers, and other artists who share their insights and experiences with music. The Open Ears Project aims to broaden listeners' understanding and appreciation of music, and to inspire them to engage with it in new and meaningful ways.
Q&A
What is Caroline Shaw's personal connection to the last movement of Mendelssohn's octet?
Caroline Shaw first heard the last movement of Mendelssohn's octet at 15 during band camp. This experience sparked her love for chamber music and has remained a significant piece in her musical journey.
How does Caroline Shaw describe the musical character of the last movement of Mendelssohn's octet?
Shaw describes the piece as a vibrant and dynamic conversation, highlighting the interplay between the instruments and the sense of unity they achieve. She finds the piece particularly inspiring for its democratic nature, where each musician has their moment to shine.
What are some of the broader themes that Caroline Shaw connects to the last movement of Mendelssohn's octet?
Shaw connects the piece to themes of possibility, community, and the importance of making space for others. She believes that music, like chamber music, can foster a sense of shared experience and remind us of the beauty of life's journey.
Show Notes
Caroline Shaw is a tireless musician, active as a violinist, vocalist, producer, and composer. She’s won multiple Grammy awards and, along with Kendrick Lamar, is one of the youngest recipients of the Pulitzer Prize in Music. Throughout her career, she has continuously experimented across genres, her collaborations spanning from the likes of Nas and Rosalía to So Percussion and Roomful of Teeth.
With all her acclaim today, it is hard to imagine that Shaw was once just a kid at band camp. In this episode of the Open Ears Project, Shaw recalls performing Felix Mendelssohn’s “Octet for Strings” as a teenager at summer camp, an experience which sparked her lifelong love of chamber music.
This recording of Felix Mendelssohn’s Octet in E-Flat Major was performed by the Gringolts Quartet and Meta4 from the 2020 Bis record, “Octets.”
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