Soundpost: Letters to the Editor July 2021

EXPRESS YOURSELF

I was inspired to contact The Strad after reading the article about the 12 Ensemble (‘In the driving seat’, June 2021). I have always been intrigued by the mixing of musical genres, with my favourite band being Apocalyptica. For me, classical music is dominated by a clear melody with enhancing percussive elements, whereas rock and metal have strong beats and prominent percussion. Despite their differences, I am always in awe of the emotion expressed. Both genres are written as reactions to real-life events: Henryk Górecki has written beautiful pieces, based on an 18-year-old’s writings in a Gestapo prison, that have moved me to tears. Similar themes in rock music (drug use, liberation, anti-authoritarianism) are just as thought-provoking.

When I read David Garrett’s thoughts on arranging music by bands such as Metallica, Aerosmith and Iron Maiden (bit.ly/3ibKYqC), it made me realise that even though music has changed a lot throughout the last centuries, its background has not shifted much at all. The best music is the kind that is composed with thought and played with purpose. Technique is important but emotion more so. What I enjoy about bands like Apocalyptica is the extent to which they feel their music and dedicate themselves to their performance.

ERIN NORMAN

Quinton, Birmingham, UK