Classical Music through the Side Door

Despite seven years of piano lessons and having two professional musicians for parents, for the longest time, Gabriel Yoran had no interest in classical music. Until he found his own way in: streaming instead of concert halls, lesser-known works instead of the same old big names, personal metaphors instead of complicated theory. Having learned from this experience, Gabriel Yoran takes us on a journey into the realm of classical music.

Along the way, he explains why we should always look conductors in the face, why cushions used to be an essential feature of concert halls, what the quirkiest instrument in the orchestra is, and why music gives you goosebumps. Scattered with illustrative musical examples, this book will make readers see – and hear – classical music in a completely different light.

»A refreshingly new point of entry into the endless expanses of music.« Karoline Pilcz, Buchkultur

»Gabriel Yoran has written a book that belongs on the bestseller lists. A book that is so concrete, so undidactic, and so replete with musical discoveries that it will appeal to classical music nerds and newbies alike.« Kristin Amme, BR Klassik

»[A book] that in a mere 130 pages opens up an entire musical cosmos.« Wolfgang Schilling, MDR