Welcome to "Intermezzo" — where we take a few minutes to bounce some ideas around about classical music.
We are wrapping up the wild tale of Till Eulenspiegel, the notorious prankster whose antics have finally landed him in serious trouble.
After days of mischief, Till is captured by an angry mob and brought to trial. He is surrounded by those he’s tormented, pleading for mercy. Justice is swift, and his playful tune — Strauss's leitmotif — turns somber as he’s sentenced to death.
Will anyone remember Till Eulenspiegel? Is he just a legend from music and folklore? Was he even a real person?
The historical Till Eulenspiegel is said to have been born in Germany, and to have died of the plague in 1350. A memorial statue exists in Kneitlingen, his supposed birthplace. He's all over the place in literature, poems, art and music.
Christy enjoyed creating her stories about Till and sharing them with you. There's another narrated version of Richard Strauss's "Till Eulenspiegel" online, a 1962 recording put out by Golden Records. The story will be different from what Christy told, but the music is the same and Till is just as much a rascal as ever.
Submit your answer to today’s question
Hear today's full episode by clicking "Listen" above. And instead of a quiz this week, Christy has an invitation. Are you interested in being one of her weekly cohosts on Intermezzo next season?
If so, and you're between the ages of 8 and 18, text us a short video (just 1-2 minutes) of yourself talking about something you're really interested in!
Are you an expert on bugs? Do you like Greek myths? Do you have a collection or a special talent? You can talk about anything in your video and it doesn't have to be related to music. When you're finished, text it to 833.490.4718. By texting your answer, you agree to receive follow-up messages from IPR.
