The 9 o’clock hour in today’s playlist is a time-travelling journey through music history, celebrating composers whose legacies continue to shape the classical world. From Baroque to Broadway, let’s explore the significance of each selection.
9:00 AM – Jean-Baptiste Lully: Selection from Phaëton
Why? Because Lully quite literally conducted himself to death. In 1687, the French-Italian composer succumbed to blood poisoning after stabbing his own foot with a conducting staff while fervently keeping time. A court composer for Louis XIV, Lully’s music defined the grandeur of the French Baroque—so it’s only fitting to start the hour with his dramatic flair.
9:05 AM – Franz Schubert: Final Movement of Symphony No. 9, “The Great”
Why? Because on this day in 1839, Felix Mendelssohn led the first performance of this symphonic giant in Leipzig. Schubert’s Symphony No. 9 is expansive and triumphant, making it a perfect pick-me-up for the morning. (Schubert himself never heard it performed—talk about a belated standing ovation!)
9:21 AM – Mykola Lysenko: Valse Brillante for Violin and Piano
Why? Because March 22, 1842, marks the birth of Ukrainian composer Mykola Lysenko, whose works helped define Ukrainian national music. His Valse Brillante is a delightful, swirling gem showcasing his lyrical Romantic style.
9:31 AM – Hamish McCunn: The Land of the Mountain and the Flood
Why? Because on March 22, 1868, Scottish composer Hamish McCunn was born. If you’ve never heard his sweeping orchestral work The Land of the Mountain and the Flood, you’re in for a treat. Think of it as Scotland’s answer to Sibelius’ Finlandia—majestic and cinematic.
9:40 AM – J.S. Bach: Prelude and Allemande from Suite for Solo Cello (Performed on viola by Rivka Golani)
Why? Because March 22, 1946, is the birthday of Israeli-Canadian violist Rivka Golani, one of the instrument’s great champions. Hearing Bach’s timeless solo cello suite on the viola offers a fresh perspective on this masterpiece.
9:47 AM – Andrew Lloyd Webber: Suite from The Phantom of the Opera
Why? Because March 22, 1948, saw the birth of Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber, who would go on to redefine musical theatre. Phantom remains one of the most beloved musicals of all time—so why not end the hour with a little theatrical drama?
From Baroque tragedy to Broadway spectacle, the 9 o’clock hour has something for everyone. Tune in, enjoy, and celebrate these musical milestones!