The Christmas holiday has it’s famous music: Handel’s Messiah, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker, to name a few. But what about the Winter Solstice? This landmark of seasons feels like one of the most potent, the shortest day of the year heralding our gradual climb toward spring, it marks the beginning of the journey from darkness to light.
Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 1 “Winter Dreams” has long been a favorite of the Ecstatic Livingroom and has been played at crushing volumes on many a winter solstice.
What about Sibelius? His music seems to exude winter. And many of his works would suit a celebration of the solstice. I like his Symphony No 7 for its intensity and brevity. There are many points when shards of light and promise break through the dark, churning strings. At its magnificent conclusion you feel that you are in the heart of winter, but can sense light, spring in the distance….
What is your favorite music for the Winter Solstice?
Tue, Dec 21, 2010
The Ecstatic Blog