Dr Justin Wildridge

Ludwig van Beethoven was one of the most influential and important composers whose life spanned the Classical and Romantic periods. His life began in Bonn, … Read more

In terms of chronology, the Romantic Era followed on directly from the Classical Era. It is important to realise before we make a closer examination … Read more

One of the outstanding differences between these key periods of Western Classical Music is the change in creative thinking. Baroque music as we can clearly … Read more

Before exploring the finer aspects of tonality and atonality, I am going to examine what these terms mean in music. Without delving too far into … Read more

It is not uncommon when watching a performance, to wonder what exactly it is that the conductor of an orchestra does. Occasionally you might spot … Read more

From an unashamedly personal standpoint, I find the ‘Rite of Spring’ to be one of the most ground-breaking, revolutionary pieces of orchestral music ever written. … Read more

For many people, the use of the word medieval conjures up a time of extreme poverty, war and plague with little in the way of … Read more

Taylor Swift’s Songs About Friendship 1. ‘Peace’ Starting with an up-to-date track by this exceptionally popular singer-songwriter called ‘Peace’. Taylor Swift has written and co-produced … Read more

Songs About Neglect 1. ‘A Gunshot to The Head of Trepidation’ by Trivium We take a direct plunge into the dark waters of neglect and … Read more

Songs About Being Led On 1. ‘So In Love’ by Orchestral Manoeuvres in The Dark The single version of this track sold an impressive 50,000 … Read more

Songs About A Boxer 1. ‘Eye of the Tiger’ by Survivor I would venture to say that aside from the song below, this track by … Read more

Opera remains a hot topic not only as a genre of music but more specifically when looking into its origins. To fully appreciate the languages … Read more