The Orchestra 4+

So far I have only explored the Salonen of the eight pieces, but being able to see at all times the 1) soloist, 2) conductor, and 3) the entire orchestra represented as light pulses where they are seated, with 4) various musicians playing highlighted parts in the fourth video box simultaneously with the curated score below and subtitled commentary from either conductor or soloist for the section being played, has greatly enhanced my understanding of and appreciation for this fantastic work. While unfortunately only two of the four movements are represented, this one piece alone was worth the price of the app. I just saw it performed in open rehearsal and will attend the concert tonight. This app really captured the experience.

One of the reasons to own an iPad. Beautiful and endlessly entertaining. I have most of the titles from the company that made this software and they’re all very wonderfully crafted, stable, rich, intriguing and more than worth the seeming pittance they cost. This particular title covers the development of symphonic music by a set of carefully chosen examples, giving you the opportunity to see how this beautiful art form has evolved over time, while also giving you a taste of some of the finest pieces ever recorded.

The ORCHESTRA app offers an overture to listening to an orchestra like no other. Follow the instrumental notation as you hear instrumentalists appear, and see how they navigate every crescendo and diminuendo. Help yourself distinguish the oboe from clarinet and bassoon, and marvel at the foundations the violins often play. You will come to appreciate each composer’s artistry and marvel at his / her orchestrations in ways mere listening doesn’t allow. This app is moves Musical Appreciation to a new level. I highly recommend it.