It is little known today that Signor Alfredo Nobellini, inventor of the accordion, also invented another, even less successful instrument. Always seeking a greater fortissimo, he combined his interest in music with his interest in things that go boom! to produce the explodeon (rhymes with melodeon). Any accordion player could play an explodeon, though seldom for very long.
It is difficult, at this historical remove, to gauge the impact the explodeon had on its listeners, as few critical reviews of performances have survived. Audiences are reported to have been blown away, even transported to heavenly heights. The score of the famous 1812 Overture originally had an explodeon part, but this was later rewritten for cannon, which were found to be easier to manage in an orchestral setting.
Nobellini composed a suite for explodeon and pipe-bomb organ. He was reported to have said, before its only known performance, that it would mark the apogee of his career. Indeed, neither he nor the concert hall is known to have featured in musical history since the event.
Friday, September 30, 2011
An off note in music history
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3 comments:
Are the modern day Smithereens part of this pyrotechnic tradition?
Since they have been playing for some years with the same personnel, I would be inclined to say "No."
Papa, I miss you very much. This conversation was quite memorable, except now I can't remember which one of us said the word "explodeon" first. I do remember the explosive laughter, however, it was one of the best days! We went to Fastnet and each had our usuals, you with your favorite fish and chips and I with the steak tips. Which movie did we watch? I wish I had a video back-up of all our conversations and time we spent together. I would continue your blog for you, but I would not want to tamper with your brilliance. I wish you could have known how much I admire, respect and love you. Always and always, and ever always, your daughter.
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