Classical Notes: June 9, 2007 Archive

Music to soothe the savage beast

Posted at 11:53 AM on June 9, 2007 by Alison Young

Last week there was a piece about cows in Spain responding to Mozart's Flute and Harp Concerto by giving larger quantities of high quality milk. This week, it's a couple of over-heated alligators singing along with the mellow low notes of a tuba.

The Florida Orchestra's principal tubist, William Mickelsen risked life and limb and leaned over the protective boardwalk at a touristica-spot in Southern Florida called Gatorland. He held his tuba aloft and sounded a low B-flat. He had to hold the note for a good long time, but those gators responded on cue and came swimming right over to him, harmonizing along.

How do YOU respond to music? Is it impossible to keep yourself away because it nourishes, energizes and soothes you? Well be sure to swim on over during Minnesota Public Radio’s member drive and keep classical music as the soundtrack to your life every day.