Once in a while, you come across something that just makes your jaw drop. For me, tonight was one of those times as Louise (my gf) showed me a video of Andre Rieu and his orchestra performing a waltz.
What makes this extraordinarily special is that it was written 50 years ago by a Hollywood actor who had musician dreams when he was young, but was always too scared to make them become a reality.
The fear of ridicule let those notes stay dormant for five decades. It only came to life about three years ago.
It's an amazing piece of music, and an amazing story that comes along with it.
Gonna be a critic here, and this my opinion alone. But I have to be honest. I am a big fan of orchestras and I did enjoy this particular ensemble. But it reminded to much of the various soundtracks from 1960's romance movies. Just watching the crowd seems to have strengthened that feeling.
OK, it was Sir Anthony Hopkins who wrote it, probably based upon his own upbringing in music and further being exposed to various composers as a film actor. You gravitate to what you enjoy, why wouldn't he?
Overall though, I would give it a 7 out of 10. Maybe even a six. If this Romantic wasn't composed by Hopkins, I have to ask, would it even have seen the light of day?
Good yes! By all means. But Great? Not so much.
But I do like the fact that people have a multitude of talents and this showcases that fact. I just wish some of the lesser known talents were noticed as well.
Beware the man who has one gun, he probably knows how to use it.
He is one of my favorite actors, full of passion, as one can tell from watching him on the big screen and now through his wonderful music Which music like that is not easy to compose
And he did that 50 years ago? And only just now let someone put music to it
Gosh that man was destined to be someone, whether through acting or composing music What a talented man!!!!!!!!!!
All hail..... Sir Anthony Hopkins
P.S. He looked like a kid enjoying himself, watching the people as well as listening to his music
Post by Charles1952 on Aug 4, 2015 23:37:41 GMT -6
We all need exposure to new forms of art. While this is a waltz, it is a different kind. It creates an atmosphere partly of despair and longing, partly of forced gaiety, and some I-don't-know-what. It was good for me to hear it.
I think it would be a very nice piece if they threw out about 85% of the musicians. Thank you for posting it.