Planning on a summer backyard barbecue? Why not grill those burgers and brats to the sounds of Bach, Beethoven and Brahms?
Afternoon Host Kent Teeters has put together a fun classical music playlist with plenty of special symphonic sauce for your picnic feast!
Far back in the pre-history of humans, an unknown cave-dweller had the excellent idea of roasting meat over an open flame – and the barbeque was born. It was only a matter of time before someone decided to drill a few holes into a well-gnawed bone to create a rudimentary flute – and dinner music became a reality. From that time forward, music and food have made a delightful combination.
To my way of thinking, Bach, Beethoven and Brahms are good parings with any backyard barbeque.
The identification of those composers as the Three Bs of Classical Music is not ancient history, but instead a relatively recent concept, traceable to a specific time and individual: the 1880s and the influential German conductor Hans von Bülow. Using a biblical analogy, Bülow declared, “I believe in Bach, the Father, Beethoven, the Son, and Brahms, the Holy Ghost of music.”
While any list of essential classical music would necessarily include the works of several other composers, the music of the Three Bs is indispensable. Writing for Gentleman’s Gazette, A.C. Mertin provides an interesting look at the history of Bach, Beethoven and Brahms as the holy trinity of classical music.
I make no claims that my “BBQ with Bach, Beethoven and Brahms” playlist covers all of the important works of these titans of classical music. Instead, please enjoy a few highlights from each composer – a fun sampling of symphonic works, some chamber music and concertos, too.
Get the grill going, pop open a cool libation and enjoy some great classical music suitable for summer dining. Cheers!
