Herbert von Karajan

Conductor Herbert von Karajan, when he was still alive, was so, so critically celebrated.

These days the mainstream (the part of it that is aware of classical music, that is) tends to regard Karajan as overrated. I often hear something like this: 'Herbert von Karajan is so overrated... but he's really great when he plays...'

And then they'll list just about every composer he ever conducted.

One guy will be saying Sibelius, and another will be saying Mozart, and on and on.... Between them they'll list as the exception just about every composer he ever performed.

I think that one reason why Karajan is dismissed by critics today is that he uses the kind of mannerisms that people use to convince you that they're important. To make them look important.

Only Karajan does not apply these mainly to himself- he applies it mainly to the Music.

When a politician uses those mannerisms to make themselves look important, it's arrogant.

But when Herbert von Karajan uses those mannerisms to make Beethoven look important, or Bruckner, or Sibelius...

Well, it's Beethoven. Or Bruckner. Or Sibelius.

It IS great.

It IS important.

It IS a masterpiece.

The appearance is not a lie, and he's not applying it primarily to himself.

Beethoven really IS great.

So there's a huge difference when Herbert von Karajan uses those mannerisms to make Beethoven or Bruckner or Sibelius look big and grand and impressive.

It is not an act.

It is Beethoven. Or Bruckner. Or Sibelius.

It really IS that great!

And if Karajan risks making Himself look important at the same time, well, that's okay. As long as he makes Beethoven look impressive.

Something to think about when they sell Herbert von Karajan short!

God loves you!

Sincerely,

David S. Annderson