In the year 2000 I walked out of my apartment building onto West End Avenue in New York City. Passing by was a husky gentleman, dressed all in black, wearing construction boots and galumphing along the sidewalk. Well there was no mistaking - and I called out "Good afternoon, Professor!" He stopped, slowly turned - and with that impish look immediately greeted me cordially. We spoke for about 10 minutes - and he could not have been more patient, good-humored and generous. My wife and I never missed any of his Carnegie Hall appearances. We mourn Dr. Schickelet's passing. Thanks for the memories, Professor.
I'm sad to learn of his passing! Our chorus, Phoenix Women's Chorus, has done some of his wonderful choral compositions and our audiences love it. It's been such a joy to introduce his talent to so many people who have never heard of him. I saw him many years ago in a solo engagement in Milwaukee, where he performed with many of his 'custom' instruments. I took my daughters and they have never forgotten that performance. We will miss his humor and talent!
Way to wreck my Saturday night! I find out more bad news in RUclips comments since I don't watch news or read papers... I hope the Almighty knows what he is doing bringing that guy near the angelic choirs and all...
I saw PDQ Bach at BGSU- live! He was late, and as the Refund was offered, PDQ burst through Balcony doors, hooked himself up to high-tension line, slid down to the stage, crashing through the stands! The Orchestra scattered..
To me, "Professor Schickele" was always "Mr. Schickele" or "Matt's Dad." I was friends (heavy acquaintance?) with his kids, Matt and Karla back in Brooklyn where I grew up. They had the most fun house; a big old Brownstone, full of instruments, tons of colorful Folk stuff, lots of REAL 1960's Hippie regalia. They also had a cool place up in Woodstock. I was lucky enough to see a couple of his shows at the local Academy (BAM) and I thought we was about the coolest father anyone could ever have. Probably because he was... Anyway, I have lost touch with Matt and Karla over the years, but my love and energy go out to them today. What an incredible human being, talent, soul, family and life. Bravo, all. -Noel "Chris" Derecki
Thank you for not only sending that love to your old friends, but also painting us a fetching picture of what that home was like. What a heavenly oasis of beauty and laughter it must have been.
I witnessed a few audience members leaving a concert in a huff. This was pre-internet, so I can only assume they didn’t know what they were buying tickets for
I looked up PDQ on Wikipedia and saw that he passed away on the 16th January 2024. This is the first time I’ve heard him. God bless him and his family. Thank you for sharing this video.
I first heard him 50+ years ago when listening to my favorite station in Dallas Texas the Posh High Brow classical music station. I've been buying Records and CD's since. Great man and Great music What a mathematical twist as well.
I only found out he passed on Not one media outlet said anything But hey they will tell you Biden smacked his head exiting Marine 1, sadly he did not hit his head hard enough the sob is still breathing. If GOD asked me who should remain alive and who should go downstairs Peter would live and Biden would be where he and his whole frigging family and party belong HELL PS not GOP I am a jFK Era DEMOCRAT but have yet to vote for a demorat for anything.
I was him perform in Hartford twice. I'll never forget the response of the two ladies behind me who apparently were expecting a traditional symphony performance when the good doctor threw a rope over the balcony and shinnied down to the stage. Priceless. I just now read of his passing. He was such a great performer and musician in his own right. But his humor is what will stick with me. I still can't listen to Beethoven's fifth without thinking of the sportcast.
Thank you Peter Schickele for the wonderful stuff you've done in the name of great music making. You and your awesome eccentric counterpart, P.D.Q. Bach. I've attended multiples of your concerts at Carnegie Hall and it has directly influenced the best in me as a musician. You will be sorely missed. R.I.P.
No one who was present could ever forget him streaking the stage after presenting Pilobolus with the Scripps Award at the American Dance Festival in Durham, NC, years ago.
Interesting info...In 1971 or 1972, I was dating a girl who played in the University of Buffalo student band. She was a French Horn player (played the English Horn when marching) and was taking French Horn lessons from a horn player in the Buffalo Philharmonic. She described him as very stern and having a very serious personality. Peter Schickele did a concert in Buffalo that we attended. When they played the Schleptet and her instructor fell off his chair, she visibly and audibly gasped. She asked him about how everything worked and he said that Professor Schickele would send the music two or three days before the concert and the orchestra was told to try to be serious and keep a straight face. PDQ concerts required professional musicians to pull off the complicated works. The instructor was reluctant at first to do the fall, but urged by other members of the orchestra, realized that it was all in fun and to let himself go. The orchestra had a great time and absolutely loved playing the concert.
“And lo, she found herself within a market/ And all around her, fish were dying/ And yet their stench did live on!” (from Iphigeneia in Brooklyn) 34:15. hahaha Brilliant!!
Schickele. I had the joy of being able to attend his presentations for decades of Christmas seasons in NYC: Town Hall, Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher, and have sung those madcap Christmas carols with great glee. R.I.P. Professor.
I just don't understand how anyone could perform any of these pieces with a straight face...I've never once made it through The Seasonings without ending up in bouts of painful laughter and tears
I know what you mean. All I see and hear is a stage full of very talented musicians desperately trying to keep a straight face. That's the only way comedy works; take it dead seriously.
I've heard from symphonic musicians that this music is challenging; you have to be really good to play and sing it. So if they're concentrating fiercely--they are!
I almost lost it the first time I played the “Fuga Meshugah”, which requires movement (turning around, etc) and is only for 3 people. The second night I thought sad thoughts to keep myself from cracking up.
"Iphigenia herself in Brooklyn found..." "And lo, she found herself within a market..." "Only he who is running, running, running... NOSE!..." Professor Peter Schickele, your amazingly outlandish musical humor changed my life!! Never have I laughed so much, so hard, as when listening to your music. Thank you!!!
I had the distinct pleasure of being a student of Dr Robert J Dietze, who was Peter's first college music professor. Dr Dietze was a big fan of his student Peter. He often quoted Peter's aphorisms regarding composition, and what made PDQ Bach such a great, although little known composer and relative of JS Bach. That was back in 1970 and it warms my heart that this stuff is still being played, and Peter's brand of comedy and music is still being enjoyed by music lovers all over the world. I gather by some of the comments that Peter has gone on to the big PDQ Bach orchestra in the sky. Thanks for your contribution to our musical lives Peter Schickele.
I saw his show when he came to the University of Texas in the mid sixties. This where I learned of the trombonus interruptus (one half of the slide was disengaged), the only trombon approved by the Catholic Church. That university in North Dakota will fade into invisibility now that he is gone.
In the late 90s, WQED in Pittsburgh broadcast "Schickele Mix" on Saturday evenings. This show is and will remain one of the most entertaining and educational programs I can remember. Listening with my young daughter--now an Oberlin alumna and music teacher for many years--will always be one of my fondest memories.
RIP to Professor Schickele! I had the pleasure of seeing him in concert many times; Chicago Symphony, Chicago Civic, Hartford (Conn.) Symphony, and several others. Such an amazing talent, and as any musician knows, you can't pull off the funny stuff as well as he did, unless you're superb at the serious stuff too. Somehow, I got backstage to meet him and shake his hand after one concert, and I told him that my absolute favorite piece of music by him was his Pentangle for Horn and Orchestra. He seemed astonished that I even knew of it, and I told him, "I have a cassette of it in my car right now, and I listened to it on the way to the concert!" He left us with so much wonderful music, both his own and P.D.Q.'s, and I really appreciate that. I hope he's up there in music heaven having a hot session of trio sonatas right now!
Well sad to see him go. So I thought I should find a performance of Oedipus, as I wore out my cassette years ago, and I find this HIGH SCHOOL performance. And it is just great. Peter Schickele, inspiring young musicians forever. Thank you sir.
I first heard PDQ Bach on the Dr. Demento show in 1975. That's nearly fifty years! I immediately bought everything of his that was available, and everything since. Sadly, I never attended a performance, so this is a treat. Happily, this has ALL of my favorites. First place is a tie between The Unbegun Symphony and The Seasonings. Such a genius!
This is awesome! Thank you for sharing. We played "The Unbegun Symphony" in Full Orchestra back in '76 at Grants Pass High in Oregon. Our conductor, the late David O'dell had previously seen this concert, and he gave us the "blow-by-blow" description during our rehearsals. It is a pleasure to finally see the production.
I just found this. I saw Prof. Schickele years ago. He brought life to my love of classical music which is very much alive today. I am putting together a classical concert tomorrow. Rest in peace my friend.
Our Catholic Church group learned a PDQ Madrigal. "The Queen to me a Royal Pain Doth Give." We had a lot of fun with it! Peter Schickele did bring a lot of joy into the world.
Then, decades later, I went to visit my sister in NYC where she was in college and where I live now. My sister's boyfriend was studying acoustics at U of PA and took us to hear P.D.Q. at Carnegie Hall -- my first visit there! The BF thought it was the perfect acoustic introduction to Carnegie. I am sure he was right.
I've watched that entrance over and over and can't believe he meant to do that. Seems like he lost his grip prematurely 15 feet up. That he didn't hurt himself is a miracle. Who knows, maybe he did.
Well, hell. I was just listening last week to The Wurst of PDQ Bach that somebody put on RUclips, probably against the rules. RIP. The heavenly choir will have a fun time with "The Stoned Guest"!
I’ve been a fan, probably since the 1970’s. I don’t recall how I found out about him, but once I did, I couldn’t get enough. He appeared many times in the SF Bay Area, and wherever he was, I (and friends and family) were there too. One of the most memorable of his shows was on Halloween, and everybody was encouraged to come in costume. He had a pianist (unfortunately I can’t remember his name) who worked with him, at one point turning pages for him. At times he was too slow, so Schickele just kept repeating the last measure on the page while he waited. One of the BEST parts was when they were having “problems” with a lamp being used on the piano. At that point, the other pianist was playing, and PS was sitting in a chair next to him (as page turner). Then ALL the lights in the theater went out. Pitch black. But the music didn’t miss a beat. Everyone was laughing, of course. The lights finally came up, and the audience really broke up in astonishment when they realized the two performers had switched places! Unbelievable! But th
Schickele’s Mix broadcast on WCLV of Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the things that got me into Classical music more than 30 years ago. I only ever got to know him over the radio, but I’m mighty glad I did. Thank you, Peter, and may you rest in peace.
I never saw Peter Schickele in person, but I heard many of his wonderful P.D.Q. Bach recordings, going back to the very first album, which was released by the old Vanguard label in 1965. He has given many quite a few laughs over the years, so I am sorry to hear of his passing.
One the greatest, funniest, and fun nights was attending a Flint, MI concert of P.D.Q. Bach. It was in the mid-80s and I still treasure and relive so many moments of that night.
Bravo, Peter. It is sad to think that with Peter's death so too dies PDQ...or will there be another artist performing Peter, performing PDQ? Let's imagine.
I recall fondly so many post-Christmas season concerts at Carnegie Hall. I wouldn't have been Christmas back then without him. Then there was the final concert (I attneded anyway) a few years ago at Town Hall. I have been a fan for 50 years. He is truly a man "of happy memory".
This is a wonderful concert of the best PDQ Bach pieces. I love that it ends with the greatest, the Oratorio the Seasonings, Schickele no. 1/2 tsp. As he used to say on his radio program, all musics are created equal.
Wow, haven't given a thought to the Prof for a while here. I have some pretty fond memories of him from a radio show, in fact I liked him so much I bought some of his records. He was a brilliant musician and comedian.
I'm 61 and I've loved Schikele/PDQ Bach since I was in high school. When I saw him live in San Francisco as a teenager. He led the orchestra in Haydn's Serenade for Strings Op. 3 no. 5, beginning by saying, "Here's another piece that turns out not to have been written by Haydn. Sometimes I wonder if the man wrote anything at all." I love from this recording, "I've come to appreciate the works of PDQ Bach in 3/4, because it means they are 25% shorter than they would have been if they had been written in 4/4."
@@pdqbachfan Well the Haydn piece was just a front. His music stand kept flopping down and he would get visibly frustrated. Then in the middle of the Haydn serenade he walked off the stage with the music stand. Then you heard the very LOUD sound of a power saw. When he walked back on stage, there was a piece of 2" by 4" going from the base of the stand to the part that holds the music. And of course he entered the stage of Davies Hall by swinging down on a rope.
@@pdqbachfan I don't remember now. That was a LONG time ago. I assume you've got the book, "The Definitive Biography of PDQ Bach?" I love the combination of comic genius and idiocy: Plate 2: Leipzig, the birthplace of PDQ as it looked 200 years ago (Illustration of the city of Leipzig viewed from a far-off field). Plate 3: A wall map of ALL of Western Europe with a arm, wrist and finger in the picture pointing to Leipzig: "Leipzig as it looks today. Gone is the feeling of spaciousness that characterized the city during the 18th century."
Davies Hall was where I saw my only live PDQ Bach concert also. It was around 1982. It was one of my very few “dates.” I was Symphonic Band. She was Orchestra. This was back in the days when you could actually park in San Francisco civic center for an evening and come back to your car in one piece. Without being accosted by addicts or stepping in human poo. I think his audience is really musicians. Everybody who has sat in an ensemble and cracked jokes about the Italian musical terms or fooled around during long rests. I think this recording is pretty much the same concert we heard all those years ago. And yes, he did the Tarzan entrance then too, even more spectacularly than this concert. But he was quite a bit younger then. Alas, a really fine dinner and a fun concert were not enough to seal the deal with Amy, but I did correspond with her years later and she did recall our date with PDQ Bach fondly, so thank you Professor.
Oh wow! My 'cello teacher played in P.D.Q.'s band when he played Mandle Hall at the U. of Chicago and she (my teacher) always got us free tickets in the front box, from where P.D.Q. would make an entrance, swinging on a rope, crashing into chairs and stands (he was MUCH younger then.) My brother and I still talk about those concerts, 50 years later, with joy and love. Genius!
Unfortunately learned of his recent passing as I watched this video. A master craftsman who brought humor and levity to an under appreciated musical genre. His wit and genius will be missed and remembered.
Thanks for posting this!!! Brings back many memories from PDQ Bach in Dallas (1972)!!! Peter Schickele was an incredible, creative, humorous individual!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I saw him many years ago in NY. I'm not sure which venue it was, but it had a balcony. He did his usual "late, but he finally showed up" schtick, but in this one, he arrived at the balcony, and called out "No! Wait - I'm here, I'm here!", grabbed a rope connect to the rafters, and actually swung down on that rope from the balcony. There were a bunch of music stands on the stage, and as he swung down to the stage, he (swinging with his feet out forward) collided with kicked over a full row of stands. He wasn't just funny and a great conductor/arranger*, but he was also (apparently) part stunt man, as well. * He did *beautiful* arrangements to back up Joan Baez in her self-titled '67 album.
I started chuckling at the start and was amazed at the Professor's athletic ability! My best guess, The Prof. was in his late 60's early 70's! What a man!!🤗 Of course the performance was exceptional... In many ways! 😆
This is about 30 years after I helped produce a PDQ Bach concert in this very hall -- Stude Concert Hall at the Shepherd School of Music, Rice University. My only memory is my creation "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Lawn," complete with a leaf blower solo.
I had the good fortune to watch and listen to Schikele/PDQ Bach in Louisville, Ky. in the late 70's. He did the same "rope" entrance and the rest of the evening was delicious insanity! I have a couple of his classics on record -"A Little No Music" and "Missa Hilarious, Schikele no. N2O" (N2O, BTW, is the chemical formula for laughing gas).
Forty years ago at least we saw him launch himself from a side balcony onto the stage in Milwaukee, not far from where we were sitting. How they got that past the insurance people I'll never know. Don't remember much because we were laughing too hard. What a unique talent!. Now the internet will allow me to explore to my heart's content!
I saw the P.D.Q. Bach performance at Oregon State University back in the 80's as part of the symphony appreciation society. I remember him climbing down the rope!
I got to play a concert with Schickele many decades ago, it was such a hoot. It included the premier of a concerto but I can't remember the instrument,
How the performers held it together without laughing and folding up, I will never know. I LOVED Abduction of Figaro. I got the DVD but now see it is on You Tube. For anyone who knows anything about music, I urge them to watch it. record it watch it over again and recognise the genius of Prof. (Note to self: order more tissues. Used them up laughing)
I laughed so hard at “Esa Pekka Pekka Pickled Peppers.” Just proves that Peter (RIP) always found a joke in everything, even things that weren’t household names when he started out.
I have been P.D.Q. Bach fan all my life. This taped concert was just wonderful. Presenting old standards like the Schleptet (here performed first) . Glad to see Mr. Schickele is still around He has become an institution now as much a master of slapstick comedy as Classical Music.
My wife grew up in Fargo, yes Fargo where PDQ did and even gleefully played in a concert of his compositions at WFU in Winston Salem. RIP for the joy you gave us.
I've always felt that music should be humorous as well as serious. I've participated in music for several decades, and appreciate PDQ's take on the classics. Thanks.
Never met him, but in High School I was honored to be in District Orchestra (PMEA) and loved playing a couple of his compositions (the typewriter one was fun)
I played PDQ in high school 43 years ago. I just discovered this YT channel. Had NO idea that Giff Neilson had gotten involved. Former QB Houston Oilers and later sports anchor on local news. Subbed!!!
Thanks, "PDQ" for your genius and the laughter you brought us. Your recordings gave us a much-needed Friday night break when preparing for those "drop the needle" quizzes during our conservatory years.
slide whistle: the easier to carry version of the trumbone... i mean, he's not wrong, but also... now I kind of want to see a slide whistle mod in trumbone champ.
In the year 2000 I walked out of my apartment building onto West End Avenue in New York City. Passing by was a husky gentleman, dressed all in black, wearing construction boots and galumphing along the sidewalk. Well there was no mistaking - and I called out "Good afternoon, Professor!" He stopped, slowly turned - and with that impish look immediately greeted me cordially. We spoke for about 10 minutes - and he could not have been more patient, good-humored and generous. My wife and I never missed any of his Carnegie Hall appearances. We mourn Dr. Schickelet's passing. Thanks for the memories, Professor.
I had heard that Professori was a very nice fella.
RIP sir and thank you so much for the enjoyment you brought to the world.
Pax+
❤
I'm sad to learn of his passing! Our chorus, Phoenix Women's Chorus, has done some of his wonderful choral compositions and our audiences love it. It's been such a joy to introduce his talent to so many people who have never heard of him. I saw him many years ago in a solo engagement in Milwaukee, where he performed with many of his 'custom' instruments. I took my daughters and they have never forgotten that performance. We will miss his humor and talent!
RIP, Peter. Thanks for all the wonderful music and laughs.
❤
❤
Way to wreck my Saturday night! I find out more bad news in RUclips comments since I don't watch news or read papers... I hope the Almighty knows what he is doing bringing that guy near the angelic choirs and all...
@@michaeldeloatch7461 Heaven will never be the same...❤
next to tom lerher victor borge a GIANT of musical comedy.... Adios mu chachos.
Amazing that he still does that fabulous rope schtick after all these years!
He used to actually swing down and knock over a bunch of chairs and music stands...
I saw PDQ Bach at BGSU- live! He was late, and as the Refund was offered, PDQ burst through Balcony doors, hooked himself up to high-tension line, slid down to the stage, crashing through the stands! The Orchestra scattered..
Peter was certainly the greatest musical genius ever to have emerged from southern North Dakota.
at Hoople!
To me, "Professor Schickele" was always "Mr. Schickele" or "Matt's Dad."
I was friends (heavy acquaintance?) with his kids, Matt and Karla back in Brooklyn where I grew up. They had the most fun house; a big old Brownstone, full of instruments, tons of colorful Folk stuff, lots of REAL 1960's Hippie regalia. They also had a cool place up in Woodstock.
I was lucky enough to see a couple of his shows at the local Academy (BAM) and I thought we was about the coolest father anyone could ever have. Probably because he was...
Anyway, I have lost touch with Matt and Karla over the years, but my love and energy go out to them today. What an incredible human being, talent, soul, family and life. Bravo, all.
-Noel "Chris" Derecki
Thank you for not only sending that love to your old friends, but also painting us a fetching picture of what that home was like. What a heavenly oasis of beauty and laughter it must have been.
Pure, unadulterated silliness. And for all you music snobs, humor is a perfectlly legitimate genre of composition.. 🤣
ask victor borge
And Spike Jones!
I witnessed a few audience members leaving a concert in a huff. This was pre-internet, so I can only assume they didn’t know what they were buying tickets for
"I'm Weird Al Yankovic, and I approve this message!"
Agree.
I looked up PDQ on Wikipedia and saw that he passed away on the 16th January 2024. This is the first time I’ve heard him. God bless him and his family. Thank you for sharing this video.
I got to see him in person. I remember laughing so much!
I first heard him 50+ years ago when listening to my favorite station in Dallas Texas the Posh High Brow classical music station. I've been buying Records and CD's since. Great man and Great music What a mathematical twist as well.
I only found out he passed on
Not one media outlet said anything
But hey they will tell you Biden smacked his head exiting Marine 1, sadly he did not hit his head hard enough the sob is still breathing.
If GOD asked me who should remain alive and who should go downstairs
Peter would live and Biden would be where he and his whole frigging family and party belong HELL
PS not GOP I am a jFK Era DEMOCRAT but have yet to vote for a demorat for anything.
I saw him in person three times: Philadelphia 1979, Washington DC 1986, New York City 2005.@@naturemusic88
.@@martineastburn3679.... Hello...it sounds as if he is as funny as Victor Borge...I just found the Channel today.
I was him perform in Hartford twice. I'll never forget the response of the two ladies behind me who apparently were expecting a traditional symphony performance when the good doctor threw a rope over the balcony and shinnied down to the stage. Priceless. I just now read of his passing. He was such a great performer and musician in his own right. But his humor is what will stick with me. I still can't listen to Beethoven's fifth without thinking of the sportcast.
Were they amused or horrified, and how did they react throughout the performance? That’s amazing.
Gerrod Pagenkopf really nailed the bargain countertenor voice(a PDQ Bach specialty) with Iphigenia in Brooklyn!
Thank you Peter Schickele for the wonderful stuff you've done in the name of great music making. You and your awesome eccentric counterpart, P.D.Q. Bach. I've attended multiples of your concerts at Carnegie Hall and it has directly influenced the best in me as a musician. You will be sorely missed. R.I.P.
No one who was present could ever forget him streaking the stage after presenting Pilobolus with the Scripps Award at the American Dance Festival in Durham, NC, years ago.
Interesting info...In 1971 or 1972, I was dating a girl who played in the University of Buffalo student band. She was a French Horn player (played the English Horn when marching) and was taking French Horn lessons from a horn player in the Buffalo Philharmonic. She described him as very stern and having a very serious personality. Peter Schickele did a concert in Buffalo that we attended. When they played the Schleptet and her instructor fell off his chair, she visibly and audibly gasped. She asked him about how everything worked and he said that Professor Schickele would send the music two or three days before the concert and the orchestra was told to try to be serious and keep a straight face. PDQ concerts required professional musicians to pull off the complicated works. The instructor was reluctant at first to do the fall, but urged by other members of the orchestra, realized that it was all in fun and to let himself go. The orchestra had a great time and absolutely loved playing the concert.
I had his first record. So brilliant and hilarious. 😂
I couldn't be more saddened at Peter Schickele's passing. Fantastic talent.
Carnegie Hall, New Year's Eve 1980 will always be one of the best musical memories of my life. Thank you Peter!
One of my heroes. Rest in power, king o7
“And lo, she found herself within a market/ And all around her, fish were dying/ And yet their stench did live on!” (from Iphigeneia in Brooklyn) 34:15. hahaha Brilliant!!
RIP Peter Schickele, we love you.
Schickele. I had the joy of being able to attend his presentations for decades of Christmas seasons in NYC: Town Hall, Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher, and have sung those madcap Christmas carols with great glee. R.I.P. Professor.
I just don't understand how anyone could perform any of these pieces with a straight face...I've never once made it through The Seasonings without ending up in bouts of painful laughter and tears
Especially when at the "Alright! We won't play the fugue!" part!
I know what you mean. All I see and hear is a stage full of very talented musicians desperately trying to keep a straight face. That's the only way comedy works; take it dead seriously.
I've heard from symphonic musicians that this music is challenging; you have to be really good to play and sing it. So if they're concentrating fiercely--they are!
Too late....I succumbed under the table after 31 minutes.....hopeless to get serious again after that kazoo cantata 😂😂😂😂
I almost lost it the first time I played the “Fuga Meshugah”, which requires movement (turning around, etc) and is only for 3 people. The second night I thought sad thoughts to keep myself from cracking up.
I went to see his shows at Carnage Hall every year just before New Years Eve. I was hooked just from reading the flyer.
"Iphigenia herself in Brooklyn found..." "And lo, she found herself within a market..." "Only he who is running, running, running... NOSE!..." Professor Peter Schickele, your amazingly outlandish musical humor changed my life!! Never have I laughed so much, so hard, as when listening to your music. Thank you!!!
I had the distinct pleasure of being a student of Dr Robert J Dietze, who was Peter's first college music professor. Dr Dietze was a big fan of his student Peter. He often quoted Peter's aphorisms regarding composition, and what made PDQ Bach such a great, although little known composer and relative of JS Bach. That was back in 1970 and it warms my heart that this stuff is still being played, and Peter's brand of comedy and music is still being enjoyed by music lovers all over the world. I gather by some of the comments that Peter has gone on to the big PDQ Bach orchestra in the sky. Thanks for your contribution to our musical lives Peter Schickele.
I saw his show when he came to the University of Texas in the mid sixties. This where I learned of the trombonus interruptus (one half of the slide was disengaged), the only trombon approved by the Catholic Church. That university in North Dakota will fade into invisibility now that he is gone.
In the late 90s, WQED in Pittsburgh broadcast "Schickele Mix" on Saturday evenings. This show is and will remain one of the most entertaining and educational programs I can remember. Listening with my young daughter--now an Oberlin alumna and music teacher for many years--will always be one of my fondest memories.
That was wonderful beyond wonderful.
RIP to Professor Schickele! I had the pleasure of seeing him in concert many times; Chicago Symphony, Chicago Civic, Hartford (Conn.) Symphony, and several others. Such an amazing talent, and as any musician knows, you can't pull off the funny stuff as well as he did, unless you're superb at the serious stuff too. Somehow, I got backstage to meet him and shake his hand after one concert, and I told him that my absolute favorite piece of music by him was his Pentangle for Horn and Orchestra. He seemed astonished that I even knew of it, and I told him, "I have a cassette of it in my car right now, and I listened to it on the way to the concert!" He left us with so much wonderful music, both his own and P.D.Q.'s, and I really appreciate that. I hope he's up there in music heaven having a hot session of trio sonatas right now!
Well sad to see him go. So I thought I should find a performance of Oedipus, as I wore out my cassette years ago, and I find this HIGH SCHOOL performance. And it is just great. Peter Schickele, inspiring young musicians forever. Thank you sir.
I first heard PDQ Bach on the Dr. Demento show in 1975. That's nearly fifty years! I immediately bought everything of his that was available, and everything since. Sadly, I never attended a performance, so this is a treat. Happily, this has ALL of my favorites. First place is a tie between The Unbegun Symphony and The Seasonings. Such a genius!
Used to listen to his radio show on NPR. The best take away was his quote " If it sounds good, it is good!"
This is awesome! Thank you for sharing. We played "The Unbegun Symphony" in Full Orchestra back in '76 at Grants Pass High in Oregon.
Our conductor, the late David O'dell had previously seen this concert, and he gave us the "blow-by-blow" description during our rehearsals. It is a pleasure to finally see the production.
I just found this. I saw Prof. Schickele years ago. He brought life to my love of classical music which is very much alive today. I am putting together a classical concert tomorrow. Rest in peace my friend.
The Fuga Meshuga has a pretty catchy subject (or theme, or melody, or tune, or ditty).
Our Catholic Church group learned a PDQ Madrigal. "The Queen to me a Royal Pain Doth Give." We had a lot of fun with it! Peter Schickele did bring a lot of joy into the world.
Then, decades later, I went to visit my sister in NYC where she was in college and where I live now. My sister's boyfriend was studying acoustics at U of PA and took us to hear P.D.Q. at Carnegie Hall -- my first visit there! The BF thought it was the perfect acoustic introduction to Carnegie. I am sure he was right.
I've watched that entrance over and over and can't believe he meant to do that. Seems like he lost his grip prematurely 15 feet up. That he didn't hurt himself is a miracle. Who knows, maybe he did.
Just heard the sad news. I ❤PDQ
Well, hell. I was just listening last week to The Wurst of PDQ Bach that somebody put on RUclips, probably against the rules.
RIP. The heavenly choir will have a fun time with "The Stoned Guest"!
I found an original Vanguard 2 LP copy for cheap. By then (1971) Columbia did their pressings.
I think it's time for us to go through P.D.Q. Bach's life. After all, HE did.
- Peter Schickele
I’ve been a fan, probably since the 1970’s. I don’t recall how I found out about him, but once I did, I couldn’t get enough. He appeared many times in the SF Bay Area, and wherever he was, I (and friends and family) were there too.
One of the most memorable of his shows was on Halloween, and everybody was encouraged to come in costume. He had a pianist (unfortunately I can’t remember his name) who worked with him, at one point turning pages for him. At times he was too slow, so Schickele just kept repeating the last measure on the page while he waited.
One of the BEST parts was when they were having “problems” with a lamp being used on the piano. At that point, the other pianist was playing, and PS was sitting in a chair next to him (as page turner). Then ALL the lights in the theater went out. Pitch black. But the music didn’t miss a beat. Everyone was laughing, of course. The lights finally came up, and the audience really broke up in astonishment when they realized the two performers had switched places! Unbelievable!
But th
Fun thought experiment: The administrative staff in the hereafter immediately introduced Prof. S. to an actual, real spirit of Herr PDQ Bach.
Even better than the 1950s P.D.Q. I have a 50s recording and will get it out and play it again.
Schickele’s Mix broadcast on WCLV of Cleveland, Ohio, is one of the things that got me into Classical music more than 30 years ago.
I only ever got to know him over the radio, but I’m mighty glad I did.
Thank you, Peter, and may you rest in peace.
The Unbegun Symphony is still a masterpiece! My dad and I got a big kick out of this one!
I never saw Peter Schickele in person, but I heard many of his wonderful P.D.Q. Bach recordings, going back to the very first album, which was released by the old Vanguard label in 1965. He has given many quite a few laughs over the years, so I am sorry to hear of his passing.
What masterful, loving musicianship underlies all of this parody!
One the greatest, funniest, and fun nights was attending a Flint, MI concert of P.D.Q. Bach. It was in the mid-80s and I still treasure and relive so many moments of that night.
Bravo, Peter. It is sad to think that with Peter's death so too dies PDQ...or will there be another artist performing Peter, performing PDQ? Let's imagine.
I recall fondly so many post-Christmas season concerts at Carnegie Hall. I wouldn't have been Christmas back then without him. Then there was the final concert (I attneded anyway) a few years ago at Town Hall. I have been a fan for 50 years. He is truly a man "of happy memory".
Took me back 50 years. Christmas week at Carnegie Hall..
It takes a particular talent to get a laugh from a lighting change! 🤣
God bless you Peter Schickele! 🙏❤️
This is a wonderful concert of the best PDQ Bach pieces. I love that it ends with the greatest, the Oratorio the Seasonings, Schickele no. 1/2 tsp. As he used to say on his radio program, all musics are created equal.
Wow, haven't given a thought to the Prof for a while here. I have some pretty fond memories of him from a radio show, in fact I liked him so much I bought some of his records. He was a brilliant musician and comedian.
Rest in Beautiful creative Peace Peter Schickele💔💜💖🔥🎶🔥🎶🤗🎶👏👏👏👏😮
I'm 61 and I've loved Schikele/PDQ Bach since I was in high school. When I saw him live in San Francisco as a teenager. He led the orchestra in Haydn's Serenade for Strings Op. 3 no. 5, beginning by saying, "Here's another piece that turns out not to have been written by Haydn. Sometimes I wonder if the man wrote anything at all." I love from this recording, "I've come to appreciate the works of PDQ Bach in 3/4, because it means they are 25% shorter than they would have been if they had been written in 4/4."
Amazing. What else do you remember him doing?
@@pdqbachfan Well the Haydn piece was just a front. His music stand kept flopping down and he would get visibly frustrated. Then in the middle of the Haydn serenade he walked off the stage with the music stand. Then you heard the very LOUD sound of a power saw. When he walked back on stage, there was a piece of 2" by 4" going from the base of the stand to the part that holds the music. And of course he entered the stage of Davies Hall by swinging down on a rope.
What else did he play?
@@pdqbachfan I don't remember now. That was a LONG time ago. I assume you've got the book, "The Definitive Biography of PDQ Bach?" I love the combination of comic genius and idiocy: Plate 2: Leipzig, the birthplace of PDQ as it looked 200 years ago (Illustration of the city of Leipzig viewed from a far-off field). Plate 3: A wall map of ALL of Western Europe with a arm, wrist and finger in the picture pointing to Leipzig: "Leipzig as it looks today. Gone is the feeling of spaciousness that characterized the city during the 18th century."
Davies Hall was where I saw my only live PDQ Bach concert also. It was around 1982. It was one of my very few “dates.” I was Symphonic Band. She was Orchestra. This was back in the days when you could actually park in San Francisco civic center for an evening and come back to your car in one piece. Without being accosted by addicts or stepping in human poo.
I think his audience is really musicians. Everybody who has sat in an ensemble and cracked jokes about the Italian musical terms or fooled around during long rests.
I think this recording is pretty much the same concert we heard all those years ago. And yes, he did the Tarzan entrance then too, even more spectacularly than this concert. But he was quite a bit younger then.
Alas, a really fine dinner and a fun concert were not enough to seal the deal with Amy, but I did correspond with her years later and she did recall our date with PDQ Bach fondly, so thank you Professor.
RIP - thank you for making music fun in a whole new way. ❤️
Oh wow! My 'cello teacher played in P.D.Q.'s band when he played Mandle Hall at the U. of Chicago and she (my teacher) always got us free tickets in the front box, from where P.D.Q. would make an entrance, swinging on a rope, crashing into chairs and stands (he was MUCH younger then.) My brother and I still talk about those concerts, 50 years later, with joy and love. Genius!
Sad to find out he just died... I enjoyed his "interpretation" of composer PDQ Bach.
Unfortunately learned of his recent passing as I watched this video. A master craftsman who brought humor and levity to an under appreciated musical genre. His wit and genius will be missed and remembered.
As usual- FANTASTIC! Whether to play it, sing it or listening to it. Thank you for this posting.
Thanks for posting this!!! Brings back many memories from PDQ Bach in Dallas (1972)!!! Peter Schickele was an incredible, creative, humorous individual!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PDQ in Portland, 1984
Epic. He's an absolute genius.
I saw him many years ago in NY. I'm not sure which venue it was, but it had a balcony. He did his usual "late, but he finally showed up" schtick, but in this one, he arrived at the balcony, and called out "No! Wait - I'm here, I'm here!", grabbed a rope connect to the rafters, and actually swung down on that rope from the balcony. There were a bunch of music stands on the stage, and as he swung down to the stage, he (swinging with his feet out forward) collided with kicked over a full row of stands. He wasn't just funny and a great conductor/arranger*, but he was also (apparently) part stunt man, as well.
* He did *beautiful* arrangements to back up Joan Baez in her self-titled '67 album.
I started chuckling at the start and was amazed at the Professor's athletic ability! My best guess, The Prof. was in his late 60's early 70's! What a man!!🤗 Of course the performance was exceptional... In many ways! 😆
2006. He's now 87, would have been 70-71(?). Amazing!
Such joy, happiness, contentment you brought to me, to everyone. Thank you dear Sir. You shall be woefully missed by us all.
This is about 30 years after I helped produce a PDQ Bach concert in this very hall -- Stude Concert Hall at the Shepherd School of Music, Rice University. My only memory is my creation "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Lawn," complete with a leaf blower solo.
Always wanted to see PDQ live and I waited and waited and BOOM. Dead.
...the things this guy does for a laugh; it's wonderful!
RIP Peter. There will never be another like you...or PDQ Bach.
I had the good fortune to watch and listen to Schikele/PDQ Bach in Louisville, Ky. in the late 70's. He did the same "rope" entrance and the rest of the evening was delicious insanity! I have a couple of his classics on record -"A Little No Music" and "Missa Hilarious, Schikele no. N2O" (N2O, BTW, is the chemical formula for laughing gas).
Forty years ago at least we saw him launch himself from a side balcony onto the stage in Milwaukee, not far from where we were sitting. How they got that past the insurance people I'll never know. Don't remember much because we were laughing too hard. What a unique talent!. Now the internet will allow me to explore to my heart's content!
Always fun to see people add to Schikele's creativity and humor. Bravo!
I saw the P.D.Q. Bach performance at Oregon State University back in the 80's as part of the symphony appreciation society. I remember him climbing down the rope!
University of Southern North Dakota at Hoople. Peter was a musical comedic genius! Thanks for the years of fun!
RIP Peter. You discovered yet another Bach, PDQ Bach❤
I got to play a concert with Schickele many decades ago, it was such a hoot. It included the premier of a concerto but I can't remember the instrument,
Wonderfully miraculous!
Cheers Peter, Thank you for PDQ... brilliant music and laughs!
Absolute genius! I am so thankful for his gifts to all of us, through “PDQ Bach” and his own compositions. Rest in peace and harmony. ❤️
How the performers held it together without laughing and folding up, I will never know. I LOVED Abduction of Figaro. I got the DVD but now see it is on You Tube. For anyone who knows anything about music, I urge them to watch it. record it watch it over again and recognise the genius of Prof. (Note to self: order more tissues. Used them up laughing)
I laughed so hard at “Esa Pekka Pekka Pickled Peppers.” Just proves that Peter (RIP) always found a joke in everything, even things that weren’t household names when he started out.
I have been P.D.Q. Bach fan all my life. This taped concert was just wonderful. Presenting old standards like the Schleptet (here performed first) . Glad to see Mr. Schickele is still around He has become an institution now as much a master of slapstick comedy as Classical Music.
My wife grew up in Fargo, yes Fargo where PDQ did and even gleefully played in a concert of his compositions at WFU in Winston Salem. RIP for the joy you gave us.
Ennio Morricone is one my favorites. I turn down to low level and my dog comes inside, jumps on sofa, nuzzles on lap. Morricone / Pavlov. Joy to all!
I think that a combination of Schickele and the Toy Dolls (being also versatile on the kazoo) would work musical wonders!
What an amazing
night of good silly
music ❤ ❤
I've always felt that music should be humorous as well as serious. I've participated in music for several decades, and appreciate PDQ's take on the classics. Thanks.
RIP Peter Schickele (1935-2024)
ja ja ja... nice performance.
This stuff never gets old!
Thanks, Professor Shickele!
RIP: PETER SCHICKELE: 1935-2024.
R.I.P. Peter Schickele, aka P.D.Q. Bach 1935 July 17 - 2024 January 16
He left us this year.😪😪😪
Never met him, but in High School I was honored to be in District Orchestra (PMEA) and loved playing a couple of his compositions (the typewriter one was fun)
This "Iphigenia" made sense to me. I listened to the cassette album of many times and I never knew what was going on.
I played PDQ in high school 43 years ago. I just discovered this YT channel.
Had NO idea that Giff Neilson had gotten involved. Former QB Houston Oilers and later sports anchor on local news.
Subbed!!!
Good solid beat. I'm wondering how many instruments were used. Super voice with perfect diction, every word clear. Marvellous.
Thanks, "PDQ" for your genius and the laughter you brought us. Your recordings gave us a much-needed Friday night break when preparing for those "drop the needle" quizzes during our conservatory years.
Boy, this "Bargain Counter Tenor" is something else! 😊
Just found your channel🎉. Best memories of college of the performances!!!!😂😂😂❤❤
slide whistle: the easier to carry version of the trumbone...
i mean, he's not wrong, but also... now I kind of want to see a slide whistle mod in trumbone champ.