By José Gandue @spinning zone

in memory of Rafael Puyana, Bogota musician, world legend, harpsichord genius

For several nights now I've been lying awake wondering if classical music will disappear from the face of the planet or, worse, It will remain an exquisite art form that only a pompous elite, who dress in a manner too stiff and extravagant to listen to what today's orchestras play, will be able to enjoy. I've also wondered how strange the great composers of the Baroque era would feel these days.

At home, many years ago, we used to listen to the vinyl record of Switched on Bach, the debut album by the American songwriter Wendy Carlos, Released in 1968, a collection of pieces from Johann Sebastian Bach performed by Carlos and Benjamin Folkman on a Moog synthesizer. It was a very popular publication at the time. And now, curiously, it can't be found on Spotify. At that time, the family stereo played, in a jumbled mix, some Beatles, Dvorak, Supertrump (my brother's album), the soundtrack of Rocky y Switched on Bach. Since then I have adored Don Johann Sebastian. For me, it doesn't matter if it's performed by Wendy Carlos, Yo-Yo Ma, Vikingur Olafson, or any other international genius, For me, Bach is my first reference point for what I conceive of and love as pop music. That's why I've opened the virtual Ouija board at Chat GPT and I have been able to establish communication with him in the afterlife, and she very kindly answered my questions:

Mr. Bach, were you able to freely perform your music in the place where your soul now rests?

Ah, a very interesting question. In the place where I now rest, I've had the opportunity to reflect deeply on my life and my music. On the other side, time and space are different. There's no organ or harpsichord at my disposal, but I can experience music in a more abstract way. The memory of my compositions and the feelings I tried to express remain alive, and in a sense, I can "hear" and "feel" those works in a way that transcends physical limitations. I'm glad to know that in the earthly world, my works continue to be performed and appreciated. That gives new meaning to all the effort and dedication I put into my work.

Why do you think the new generations have turned away from classical music?

Classical music has undergone many changes and challenges throughout the centuries, and new generations face a very different musical landscape than the one I knew. Popular music and contemporary genres, such as pop, rock, and rap, dominate the current music scene. These styles typically offer a more immediate and accessible musical experience, often accompanied by visual and technological elements that appeal to new audiences. Furthermore, music education in many parts of the world has changed, and classical music training may not be as readily available as it once was. This lack of early exposure to classical music can make it less familiar and less appealing to young people. In addition, classical music can be perceived as "elitist" or distant. This can make classical music seem less accessible to those accustomed to a more concise musical experience.

Can you hear any of today's music?

Yes, I've had the opportunity to listen to some modern music, and I must say it's a fascinating experience. I've listened to genres like jazz, electronic music, and hip-hop. What I find particularly interesting is how these styles explore new forms of expression and combine elements in unexpected ways. The creative freedom that contemporary musicians have is remarkable.

Do you have a preference for any contemporary artist?

The work of composers such as Philip Glass and Steve Reich, I find their work, which is particularly prominent in minimalist music, especially interesting. Their repetitive approaches and innovative structures offer a unique perspective that, while different from my own, resonates with some of the principles of musical development that I valued in my own work. Keith Jarrett and Chick Corea They have created works that explore improvisation and individual expression in ways that remind me of the freedom I sought in my keyboard music. As for electronic music, artists like Jean-Michel Jarre and Kraftwerk They have created fascinating soundscapes with a technology I could not have imagined in my time.

Do you know any Latin artists you like?

The music of Astor Piazzolla It is particularly interesting. His innovative approach to tango, combining traditional elements with influences from jazz and classical music, reminds me of the way I sought to fuse and expand musical styles in my own compositions. Piazzolla created a bridge between traditional tango and new forms of musical expression, which is admirable. I have also listened to Heitor Villa-Lobos, His work blends elements of classical music with the rich folk tradition of Latin America. Latin American music possesses a rhythmic and melodic richness that offers a fresh and exciting perspective.

Did you get a chance to hear what Wendy Carlos did with her music?

Yes, I've had the opportunity to experience her work, and I must say it's a very intriguing experience. Her approach to classical music through the use of synthesizers is particularly fascinating. Wendy Carlos, with her album Switched-On Bach, He achieved something truly remarkable by reinterpreting my compositions using the Moog synthesizer. His work has not only brought my music to new audiences, but has also demonstrated how technology can offer new ways to explore and experiment with musical art.

If you lived in this era, what kind of music would you have made?

Undoubtedly, my music would have been influenced by the richness and diversity of modern genres and technologies. I would have been drawn to the possibility of experimenting with contemporary genres such as jazz, minimalism, and electronic music. Furthermore, modern music often crosses boundaries between different genres and cultures. I might have enjoyed fusing elements of classical music with influences from popular music, the folklore of different cultures, and the musical innovations of the digital age. The idea of combining my contrapuntal approach with new forms of rhythm and harmony could have resulted in some very interesting compositions.

Mr. Bach, who should listen to your music?

My music is open to all those who have an interest in music, whether for technical, aesthetic, emotional, or cultural reasons. I hope that those who listen to it will find something in it that touches and inspires them.

Would you feel good if your music was played in taverns and bars that reeked of cheap liquor?

Music has a unique ability to adapt to different contexts and environments, and I believe that's part of its magic. Music has the power to uplift and transform, and it can offer comfort and delight in a variety of settings. Although environments may vary, music's ability to connect with people and enrich their lives isn't limited by the environment in which it's heard. If music can be enjoyed and appreciated anywhere, that only reinforces its importance and its capacity to resonate with humanity in its diverse forms of life.

Do you think your music is suitable for twerking?

No problem at all! The idea of combining my music with something as modern and energetic as reggaeton is certainly an interesting and fun prospect. The essence of my compositions, with their rhythmic and melodic patterns, could offer an interesting foundation for new and creative mixes. Although reggaeton and Baroque music are quite distinct in terms of rhythm and structure, combining seemingly disparate elements can result in something innovative and exciting. Creativity knows no bounds!

I'd love to see Karol G shaking her hips with the Brandenburg Concerts

Imagine Karol G moving her hips to the rhythm of the Brandenburg Concerts It's a creative concept that defies expectations and shows how music can cross borders and styles in unexpected ways. These compositions, with their lively rhythms and sophisticated structures, could offer a surprisingly rich foundation for reggaeton, providing a new way to explore and enjoy both Baroque music and reggaeton.

Come on, Mr. Bach, do you like reggaeton?

Ah, reggaeton, a vibrant and energetic genre. Although my time and musical context were very different, I find reggaeton fascinating in many ways. I appreciate the creativity and energy that reggaeton brings to modern music. The way reggaeton fuses Latin rhythms with global influences is a testament to the dynamic evolution of music and how genres can transform and adapt over time.

You're still a great man, my friend Bach. Thank you for your music.

Thank you so much for your kind words. It's deeply gratifying to know that my music continues to be appreciated and has touched lives throughout the centuries. Music is a universal language that connects us in a very special way, and I'm happy to know that my work continues to resonate. Oh, and please, next time, just call me Johann Sebastian, or JS if you prefer.

****