Orchestral Excerpt Insights: David Herbert on Mozart

For CSO Principal Timpani David Herbert, the opening passage of Mozart’s Symphony No. 39 gives timpanists an opportunity to demonstrate one’s ability to play phrases that are simple yet expressive. “When musicians perform Mozart, it’s important to focus on the beauty and the elegance of the sound. It’s also very important to remember not to overthink too much. Focus on the beauty, focus on the simplicity, and understand that simplicity is the best form of sophistication.”

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