Listen and Laugh Tickets

Music

Classical music is often thought of as serious, somber, and unapproachable. But this perception couldn't be further from the truth. Classical music can actually be quite humorous and enjoyable - if you "listen and laugh" with an open mind.

One composer who had a great sense of humor was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. He incorporated witty musical jokes into many of his works, such as the famous "Musical Joke," which pokes fun at common musical mistakes and missteps. Another example is the opening to his overture for the opera The Marriage of Figaro, in which the orchestra tunes their instruments to a dissonant chord before resolving it in a satisfying way. This playful moment sets the tone for the entire opera, emphasizing its comic nature.

Similarly, the music of Franz Joseph Haydn is known for its humor. His Symphony No. 94, also known as the "Surprise Symphony," famously includes a loud, unexpected chord that wakes up any audience members who may have dozed off during the performance. Even the title itself shows that Haydn was not afraid to inject some levity into his work.

But it's not just composers themselves who can bring humor to classical music performances. Many orchestras have found creative ways to make their concerts more approachable and entertaining. For example, the San Francisco Symphony has a series called "Symphony Pops" that focuses on lighter, more popular fare. And the Boston Pops Orchestra famously performs lively arrangements of movie themes, Broadway hits, and other crowd-pleasers.

Another way to enjoy classical music with a laugh is to attend live performances that incorporate comedy or storytelling. The group Igudesman & Joo, made up of violinist Aleksey Igudesman and pianist Hyung-ki Joo, mixes slapstick humor and classical music in their performances. They have even collaborated with major symphony orchestras, bringing their unique brand of humor to prestigious concert halls and festivals around the world.

Of course, not all classical music is meant to be funny. There are plenty of serious, emotional works that have stood the test of time for their beauty, complexity, and intensity. But by listening with an open mind and seeking out the moments of humor and lightheartedness, even the most stoic of classical pieces can become more approachable and enjoyable.

So go ahead, listen and laugh at classical music. You may just discover a whole new appreciation for this rich and varied art form.