31 Days of Classical, Day 15: Life on paper, turned into sound

Each day throughout July, I'll share with you a piece of classical music. Thirty-one days, thirty-one pieces.

The list is by no means definitive, nor is it necessarily a list of all of my favorite music from the classical world. Every morning, I start my day with music that inspires me in some way, whether I'm inspired by its happiness, its loneliness, the instrumentation, the harmony, the colors, the melody -- each piece is special in some way -- and offers an opportunity to either hear something you've never heard, or hear something new in a piece you've known your whole life.

Jean-Philippe Rameau, Nouvelles Suites de Pieces de Clavecin, Suite in A minor: 1st movement: "Allemande"

This is one of the most human pieces of music I've ever heard. When I listen to this, often on repeat, I feel mystically connected to it. It's so heartbreaking, this music, yet so full of motion and warmth — it's full of love. It's like Rameau put life on paper and turned it into sound. I'd never forgive myself if I linked you to a piano version — it's not even close to the same. The versions do not compare. Listen to how the left hand crawls down the keyboard to the lowest "A" at 1:50 — that is a sound that can't be replicated, nor can it be bettered on a piano.

Take the 31 Days of Classical Challenge

31 Days is a bite-sized month-long trial of Classical Music from across the spectrum of the wonderful, expansive music we love at Classical MPR. Join the fun by subscribing to the 31 Days of Classical newsletter, or use #31DaysofClassical on Twitter or Facebook.

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