Peace, Love & Playlists: A Classical-ish Mix

Classical music has always been a significant part of my life. Starting at the age of five, I took a decade of ballet lessons, which introduced me to classical pieces played on records or performed by a pianist in the dance studio. This genre has woven itself into my life, as inspiration for my artwork, the music at my wedding, and the soundtracks of movies I enjoy. I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 pieces that I love. This playlist is a “classical-ish” mix of past and present composers. It’s created in the spirit of a Hippie Chick: immersed in the beauty of the genre and inviting individual interpretation.

That’s my classical-ish playlist; ten pieces that feel timeless, powerful, or dream-like. The best part is that you don’t need to know the difference between allegro and allegretto to enjoy them, just press play. If you’ve got a favorite classical or classical-ish piece, I’d love to hear about it in the comments.

Hippie Chicks Personal Notes

1. Vivaldi – Variation from Concerto for Strings in G Minor, RV 156

A Baroque composer fell in love with. This is arranged for piano.

2. Pachelbel – Canon in D (I. Allegro)

This was played at my wedding.. It’s simple, beautiful, and I never get tired of it.

3. Bach – Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major (Yo-Yo Ma)

After first hearing this, it was immediately added to my playlist. It feels like walking barefoot through grass, grounding and gentle.

4. Beethoven – Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92 (II. Allegretto)

I heard this in “Immortal Beloved”, the movie about Beethoven. When I hear it, I begin to choreograph ballet in my mind.

5. Debussy – Clair de Lune

Every time I hear Clair de Lune, I picture lying under the stars with my brother when we were young, fireflies blinking nearby.

6. Bach – Keyboard Concerto No. 5 in F Minor, BWV 1056: Largo

Slow, tender, and reflective. It makes me stop what I’m doing, like time just stretches for a few moments.

7. Vivaldi – The Four Seasons: Winter (I. Allegro con Molto)

I set this as the wake-up alarm on my phone once. It worked!

8. Dona Nobis Pacem (Yo-Yo Ma)

Of course, I love it. It’s Yo-Yo Ma.

9. Austin Farwell – Wedding Ballet

A recent discovery, and I’m glad I found it. It’s full of tenderness and reminds me that classical is still being written.

10. Alexandre Desplat – New Moon (The Meadow)

This was in the 2nd movie of the Twilight saga. I think it appeals to many people, in addition to classical music lovers.