How to become a classical music maniac

You've been toying with the idea of ​​going to a classical music concert for some time now. After all, it seems like an interesting new experience. Or maybe not. Maybe it's never even crossed your mind until now. But how do you get started? How can a beginner immerse themselves in the complex world of classical music? Can you even look at this topic scientifically? We talked to Martin Ruman, first violist of the Slovak Philharmonic, about how to catch the music bug.

Go see a live concert

"When you start with classical music, the first thing you have to do is go to a live concert. Don't base your initial opinion on recordings. You have to experience classical music live, it's not just about musical perception, but also about the visual, when you arrive and see a beautiful hall, a hundred artists dressed in tailcoats... It's a complex experience."

Choose the right program

"If you are attending a classical music concert for the first time, our Popular Cycle is ideal, where you will probably recognize some of the pieces. Concerts with a choir always leave a great impression and it is It's also a good idea to go see a violin or piano soloist. When you're looking at the program, choose a concert with several shorter pieces, so you can get a broader perspective."

And read what you hear

"You don't have to have listened to the program in advance. But always pick up the bulletin and read what the composer is trying to say with the song. It's important to know the history of the song, to know its background." "You perceive it completely differently. The story doesn't have to be specific, but it helps you discover the context and interpret the ideas correctly. For example, in Beethoven's "Fateful," the title itself suggests what will happen in the piece."

Make the concert an event

"Going to a concert shouldn't just be about the music, it should be about having a good time away from home. Dress nicely, have a nice dinner beforehand, have a glass of wine during the intermission. Make the concert a classy evening and make the most of it."

Don't be discouraged.

"Many people think that they can't relax at a concert because they have to think too much during classical music. It's true, but that shouldn't discourage anyone in any way. Don't be ashamed if you lose your focus, even professionals can't concentrate during the entire concert. You can't perceive everything, and that's okay. Also, some people who go to the Philharmonic for the first time are afraid of the etiquette that is customary in concert halls. The general rule is that you only applaud at the very end of the piece, not between parts. I don't mind at all if someone applauds at an inappropriate time. It means that it's their first time at a concert and they like it. And that's great."

And finally… Just enjoy it

Forget the daily hustle and bustle and listen. Immerse yourself in the music and relax. The concert is in the first I hope you enjoy it. You can regularly see Martin Ruman on the boards of the Slovak Philharmonic as the head of the viola section.