One Word, Two Ways: Symphony

“A Work of Art
… is not a living thing …
that walks or runs.
But the making of a life.
That which gives you a reaction.
To some it is the wonder of Man’s Fingers.
To some it is the wonder of the Mind.
To some it is the wonder of Technique.
And to some it is how Real it is.
To some, how Transcendent it is.

Like the 5th Symphony
it presents itself with a feeling
that you know it, if you have heard it once.
And you look for it,
and though you know it you must hear it again.
Though you know it you must see it again.

Truly a work of Art is one that tells us,
that Nature cannot make what man can make.”

-Louis Kahn

Top Image: Louis Kahn’s unbuilt Hurva Synagogue.  Bottom Image: Louis Kahn’s Philip Exeter Library

Ever since I was little, my grandparents have had season tickets to the Cleveland Orchestra.  I remember my grandfather would sit in his chair and listen to classical music all day long. He would act as if he were the conductor and simply drift with the music. I always loved to watch him; not because I liked the music but because he seemed so peaceful. After my grandfather passed away, my grandmother continued to go to the symphony. I have been her guest on many occasions and I see how my interest in classical music increases the more I go.  Recently, I have been listening to a contemporary composer by the name of Philip Glass. Though he has written many symphonies,  my favorite is a solo piece of his. It is somewhat haunting yet also somewhat beautiful. Please listen.