Classical

Over the last three decades, The Emerson String Quartet has garnered nine Grammy Awards for their achievements in Classic music. Their latest piece pays homage to familiar Mozart compositions and can be heard live in New York and London in the coming months. For those who aren’t all that familiar with classical music, other than the time their middle school teacher played it in class, the long titles may be confusing. I say this, because I happen to fall into that category, and wanted to learn some of these new words.

Canadian born Italian cultural ambassador, entrepreneur and tenor Micheal Castaldo has had many accomplishments over the years, from countless business endeavors which include everything from making his own balsamic vinaigrette and olive oil to wedding and event planning and giving scenic rides to those in need - all while having his award winning singing career.

Castaldo, now living in New York City, recently released his new single on July 5, entitled "Pray’r." The track perfectly showcases his unique style of classic Italian operatic singing mixed with a fresh pop sound.

Erik Satie is one the most significant impressionist-era composers to today's musical landscape. He is often credited as an early innovator of ambient music, which he referred to as "furniture music." He is most famous for his solo piano compositions, many of which appear on "Piano Works." His work is some the most subtle and technically simple of all music under the banner of "classical." At the same time, it is evocative in a way that no other pianist has yet to achieve.

This collection is an excellent interpretation of Satie's most famous works.

I am consistently in awe of anyone who showcases the ability to interpret and perform classical music, but especially when it is done with as much vigor, originality and talent as is the case on Jacques Loussier Plays Bach.

"Little Fugue In G Minor" is a marvel, grabbing you from the get-go and remaining relentless throughout. By contrast, "Concerto in F Minor" is a departure, putting a slightly different spin on things by setting the song to a more modern, pop-infused beat.