Barry WiesenfeldI’ve been a working musician most of my life, have serious credentials, and offer lectures on certain musical topics.
A while back, I began teaching music for a few colleges. As an extension of my classroom lectures, I began to visit libraries, schools, and other organizations, to speak about some of my favorite musical topics and these lectures have really caught on. The most satisfying aspect: attendees have told me that they listen to music differently after attending a talk than they did before. My passion for the topics is obvious and contagious. These days, I Zoom, which has allowed me to expand my horizons, and I can now add international venues to my list (!).
The most popular presentation is “The Beatles - 60 Years Later”.
This is not an ‘overview’ of the Fab Four. Everyone knows who they were, that they wore long hair, came from Liverpool, etc. I don’t go over common knowledge. What I try to achieve in this lecture is akin to what a master chef might aim for in a cooking class. It’s not about the big picture - instead, it’s about that pinch of a spice that might otherwise go unnoticed, it’s about the mostly subtle elements that make the recipe pop in your mouth. It’s about recognizing the details. I talk about instrumentation, chord movement, lyric depth, individual contributions; the spices in the recipes. That said, it's important to note that my presentations are geared to the layperson. You don't need musical knowledge to have a great time; only a love of music.
My background (until The Beatles showed up) is classical. Classical music is still (and always will be) part of my life. Hence, the following:
"Back to Bach" is a lecture about the daddy of modern music theory and construction, J.S. Bach. He wrote the book, both literally and figuratively, about how music works. We learn about some of his great works, the patterns of harmony he perfected, and by the end of this talk, will understand the complexity - and beauty - of the gems he gave the world.
"Learning Ludwig". The world recently celebrated the 250th anniversary of Beethoven's birthday. In this talk, we explore the passion and emotion that was Ludwig, and what created the volatile genius he was. We dive into some of his great works, and taste some of HIS spices.
"The Three Bs". This phrase used to mean Bach, Beethoven and Berlioz. Then it became B, B and Brahms. I'VE made it more modern and with a wider scope. MY Three Bs is Bach, Beethoven and The Beatles. This is a series, one session per entity, and has caught on. I draw comparisons, and point out shared elements!
"Jazz - an American art" is about the history, evolution, styles and components of this art form that is truly American. Jazz was born here, but is also our gift to other countries. We'll explore the styles, personalities and geniuses encompassed in this wonderful music.
Again, it’s important to note that these presentations are designed for music fans with any level of background, from formally schooled players to those who know nothing about the inner workings of music. All you need is an interest in music and a desire to learn more.
If this is intriguing to you or your organization, please visit my website at www.barrybassist.com for more information and contact info, and let’s talk.
Thanks.
Barry
Contact Barry Wiesenfeld
Location: Orange County, NY
Website: www.barrybassist.com
Email
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