Catchy Pop Tune Ahead!

In the latest episode of "Takt und Taktlos," renowned music critics Hannah Schmidt and Axel Brügemann delve into the current state and future of classical music, a genre facing numerous challenges in the global crisis. Cultural institutions are being reduced, audiences are shrinking, and the cultural education level is declining, leading to a melancholic and critical mood within the classical music scene.

Despite these challenging conditions, classical music persists as a cultural tradition and form of reflection. The duo discusses whether it still serves as a moral compass, a role that, while limited by social and political conditions, remains significant.

The podcast episode also touches upon the debate surrounding the Tanzorchester Ehrenfeld, a dance orchestra that has sparked opinions ranging from 'trash' to 'cult'. Hannah Schmidt finds the show really funny, while Axel Brügemann views it rather critically. The aesthetics of the orchestra are also a topic of discussion.

Another point of contention is the Opus Classic, a prize for classical music. Axel Brügemann sees it as a prize for a dying industry, while Hannah Schmidt sees it shining through total arbitrariness.

The debate in the podcast extends to the lack of boundaries in music criticism. Axel Brügemann states that stupid critiques are stupid, regardless of the gender of the critic. Hannah Schmidt, on the other hand, identifies misogyny in the feuilleton.

The discussion in the podcast also includes the role of classical music in the world crisis and whether it still matters today. The topic of cultural policy and the question of why the 2000s critic style still holds today are also explored.

Throughout the episode, both scholars exhibit a sense of aging, with Axel Brügemann behaving like an old man and Hannah Schmidt feeling like an old woman. However, their passion for music and criticism remains undiminished.

It's important to note that the podcast episode does not mention any subscription information for BackstageClassical.

This engaging and thought-provoking discussion offers valuable insights into the world of classical music and criticism, providing food for thought for both enthusiasts and critics alike.