A Brief History of Surprise (I)

In this podcast episode, the fascinating role of surprise in music throughout history is examined. It contrasts artists like Enya, whose work is predictable, with Eliot Carter, known for his constant unpredictability. The discussion highlights the evolution of surprise, starting from the groundbreaking introduction of harmony in medieval Europe, through the innovative use of crescendos, to the unexpected vocal elements in Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. The episode emphasizes that while initial surprises may become familiar over time, true creativity emerges from challenging established musical norms to deliver genuinely unexpected experiences for listeners.