Listening to the Classics

HEARING THE MUSIC of the great composers has long been considered a worthwhile leisure activity. Further, there really is considerable value to the human spirit in learning to appreciate classical music. This is true even for those individuals who generally prefer their music to be quite different - including lovers of country, rhythm and blues, rock, jazz, or pop. Is it possible for classical composers like Bach, Handel, Mendelssohn, Haydn, and Brahms to literally "move us" deep within our souls? Yes!

For some people, listening to classical music is a good solution to a stressful day and one of the best ways to relax. Others find that classical music is just what it takes to rouse the spirit and energize the mind. In either case, most often listeners are "moved" internally.

Most people probably listen to their favorite music on the radio or on CDs. Some, no doubt, still play old records or cassette tapes. A growing trend - at least among the younger generation - is to listen to music on an Ipod. However, especially in regard to classical music, the very best way to enjoy it is to hear it in a live performance. The same thing is often true with any other type of music.

A large choral group could be performing a concert. Perhaps an orchestra is featuring the works of Beethoven. Maybe a small ensemble is live and on stage as one of the programs offered by a Community Concert Association. In many locales, opportunities are provided for people to hear live performances of classical music - including those presented by individual performers. Such is the case along Florida's Emerald Coast.

For example, at noon on the first Wednesday of each month at the First United Methodist Church in Fort Walton Beach, listeners are treated to a tremendous hour of live classical music. It is performed by Dr. David Ott on a newly-renovated Zimmer pipe organ. The organ is a 15-rank instrument with 1013 pipes, two manuals, a full pedal board, and 25 stops. Dr. Ott is a musician with gifts and expertise far above the ordinary. In addition to being a talented organist, Dr. Ott is a composer and serves as conductor of the Philharmonic of Northwest Florida. In September 2010, a tour will feature Dr. Ott playing the historic organs of Europe.

My wife and I have not always proclaimed that classical music is our favorite type. However, we are both learning to appreciate it more than ever. We have been in the audience for David Ott's monthly organ performances in Fort Walton Beach, and we plan to continue this practice for the remainder of our time in northwest Florida. We have found that listening to the classics seems to brighten our days. And, we are convinced that hearing the pipes sound-out the music from the masters has become some of our best leisure experiences.