Sticky Notes: The Classical Music Podcast cover image

Mussorgsky, Pictures at an Exhibition

Sticky Notes: The Classical Music Podcast

CHAPTER

Samuel Goldenberg and Schmoyl

Morsorksky was deeply anti-Semitic, not unlike most Russians of the intellectual classes at the time. This is perhaps a more blatant statement of casual anti-Semitism than anything Wagner ever put into his operas. The theme Morsorksky writes is pompous, condescending, and domineering. And this caricature of two Jewish men perhaps arguing with each other, but in a way that repeats some of the most common and insidious anti-Semitic tropes. When you see the sketch, you'll understand why this music sounds a bit awkward.

00:00
Transcript
Play full episode

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner