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How Musicians went from Servants to Stars
Cambridge University historian Tim Blanning explores the rise of music and musicians in the West from lowly balladeers to masters employed by fickle patrons, to the great composers of genius, to today’s rock stars. He joins us today. Also: Musical chameleon Bonnie "Prince" Billy performs live in our studio.
The Social History of Musicians in the West
In his book The Triumph of Music, Cambridge University historian Tim Blanning explains how less than three centuries ago, musicians and composers were like servants with relatively little social status; Mozart was seated with the valets and cooks at dinner. Today’s pop stars have climbed to the top of society’s respectability ladder. Blanning explains this shift and the changing relationship between musician and audience.
Soundcheck blog: Has the social status of composers, singers and songwriters changed?
Bonnie "Prince" Billy Returns
Will Oldham has used various disguises during his 15-year career, recording under the names Palace, Palace Music, Bonnie "Prince" Billy, and yes even “Will Oldham.” The indie-folk songwriter and occasional actor (“Old Joy”) joins us for a sneak preview of his forthcoming Bonnie "Prince" Billy album, “Beware.”
The Last Player Piano Roll
Until recently, QRS Music Technologies was the only continuously operating mass producer of piano rolls in the world. Mark Sommer of the Buffalo News joins us to talk about the end of an era.
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See Tori Amos Live!
Join us Tuesday, Dec. 9 at The Greene Space
Singer and pianist Tori Amos joins us to talk about reworking and reinventing seasonal carols on her new holiday album. And, she performs for a live audience in The Greene Space! Click the link for ticket info.
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