Welcome to Drop the Needle, where the timeless world of classical music meets the rhythm of our lives today. Whether you're a seasoned musician, a student of the art, or simply someone who finds joy in the sweep of a symphony, this newsletter is your monthly dose of musical nourishment.

Born from the echoes of a 90's music major's "drop the needle" test, our mission transcends the classroom. The vast repertoire of classical music isn't just for academics; it's a living, breathing part of our cultural tapestry. Our aim? To keep this music close at hand – a "vade mecum" for the soul.

We bridge the gap between the grand maestros of the past and the vibrant world of today. From the symphonies of Beethoven to the choral works of Bruckner, from the reverent tones of Masses and Requiems to the stirring sounds of wind ensembles and concert bands, Drop the Needle is your guide through the rich landscape of music.

We aim to deliver new issues on the first Wednesday of the month, serving up a diverse palette of performances—symphonies, concertos, oratorios, and more—to keep your ear well-rounded and your musical senses sharp. Seasonal pieces will align with the calendar, bringing relevance to your listening experience.

But we don't stop at just the notes and the history. We connect the dots to the present, exploring how the themes of classic works resonate in today's world. How does a fugue reflect in modern film scores? What does a Beethoven symphony have in common with a chart-topping hit? Drop the Needle is where curiosity meets enlightenment.

We invite you to be part of a community that shares insights and experiences. Your recommendations and musical journeys can help shape our content. After all, the story of music is still being written, and your voice is a part of it.

Why subscribe? To inform your opinion not only about the French Romantic composer Hector Berlioz but to discover connections to artists like Malcolm Arnold and Oliver Messiaen. To understand Schoenberg's revolution and Weelkes' polyphony. To know your Golovanov from your Charpentier. It's about more than just knowing—it's about experiencing and sharing.

And for those who want to support this journey and dive deeper, becoming a paid subscriber means sustaining this exploration and being a part of something that grows with every note and every piece shared. Your support enables us to delve deeper into the music that defines and enriches our lives.

This is Drop the Needle – where every month, we spin tales of notes and notations, harmonies and histories. Join us, and let's make music a part of our everyday conversation.

Subscribe to Drop the Needle - Music Literature & Repertoire

Curated music literature and repertoire, amazing performances, and commentary to keep your ear well-rounded and laser-sharp.

People

David A. Benoît has a Bachelors in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi where he played principal oboe.