Are there well-known classical composers who aren't trained on a particular instrument? An acquaintance is a young singer who's interested in composition (mostly for voice), but in talking to him I get the sense that he feels a little inadequate compared to his fellow students who are accomplished on at least one instrument like piano or violin. Can you give me examples of classical composers whose work is respected but who weren't primarily instrumental players? Modern or otherwise. Thanks!
posted by mediareport on Dec 14, 2009 - 14 answers

I am a music ignoramus. But, I know I really like a man and a woman (a guy and a girl) singing together. Call and response, harmony, part of the lyrics or not, I think it's really amazing when a masculine voice and feminine voice are working together. [more inside]
posted by zeek321 on Jun 6, 2009 - 79 answers

Song suggestions for a pregnancy-themed musical recital? (Broadway or opera preferred) [more inside]
posted by fermion on Jun 3, 2009 - 19 answers

I'd like to learn some more comedy songs to sing at the piano along the lines of Hugh Laurie's Mystery. Suggestions? [more inside]
posted by chrismear on Apr 20, 2009 - 18 answers

Singing in Spanish filter: I need some feedback, por favor! [more inside]
posted by miss lynnster on Feb 20, 2007 - 15 answers

What are some impressive birthday songs, or songs that would work for a birthday song? My wife's a soprano with 10 years of voice training, and she's looking for something showy to sing for co-workers' birthdays. [more inside]
posted by agropyron on Feb 1, 2006 - 8 answers

Needed: "Romantic songs of the 1930s/40s/50s that are very easy to play on guitar". My brother has asked me to sing "something" at his mostly secular wedding on August 13. No piano available, *maybe* a guitar player of unknown skill level. He seems to want something romantic and 1930s-50s American pop. He's mentioned "It's Only a Paper Moon" with enthusiasm, but I'm not sure that would be easy enough to play on guitar. [more inside]
posted by amtho on Jul 11, 2005 - 12 answers