Welcome to "Intermezzo" — where we take a few minutes to bounce some ideas around about classical music.
This episode opens with a simple yet powerful question: Is there a difference between nostalgia and missing something?
Christy and her cohost Betty unpack how nostalgia for home is more than just longing — it's a deep emotional connection woven through memories, culture and identity.
Here's an example of nostalgia from pianist and composer Teresa Carreno. She was born in Caracas, Venezuela, and was already writing her own piano pieces by age six. Her family believed in her talent so much, they moved to New York City. By age nine, she was performing sold-out concerts in Boston and she even played for Abraham Lincoln at the White House!
Carreno's career took her all over Europe, and while her life was full of excitement and adventure, she still missed the Venezuela she left as a little girl.
One of her most moving pieces is called "Souvenirs de mon pays," which is French for “Memories of My Country.” She wrote it while living in Paris, but you could say the notes are in Spanish — the language of her heart, and of Venezuela. As you listen, maybe it’ll stir up a bit of your own nostalgia for home.
Submit your answer to today’s question
Hear today's full episode by clicking "Listen" above and if you know the answer to to this week's question, text the answer to 833.490.4718. By texting your answer, you agree to receive follow-up messages from IPR.
Christy L'Esperance is the host and producer of Intermezzo.
Thanks to our cohost Betty.
Scott Clemens is IPR's Digital Content Producer.
