Module 9 Playlist-Radical Romantic

1. Rachmaninov – Piano Concerto No.2

This concerto became well-known after it was used as the emotionally draining score for the film
Brief Encounter. But the charm of it is unmatched by anything else. Just have a listen to the
incredible performance that Alexandre Tharaud gives with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic
Orchestra in the slow section.

2. Elgar - Salut d’amour

If you have a mustache, are British in any way, or are emotionally repressed, all you need to do
is stick this piece on the stereo, stand awkwardly in the corner, and wait for the object of your
desire to shower you with kisses. If you have a mustache, are British in any way, or are
emotionally repressed, you are in luck. *Not even the slightest bit guaranteed. **Guaranteed.

3. Puccini - O soave fanciulla, from La bohème

Pavarotti should do the talking here. Singing. Whatever. In either case, Puccini is the master
when it comes to romance, whether it be heartbreaking or joyful, and this aria is one of his most
emotionally charged duets.

4. Rota - Love Theme, from Romeo and Juliet

So the story itself didn't end all that well (whirlwind vacation romance goes wildly wrong, kids
take drastic action, etc.), but the music that was inspired by Shakespeare's most famous romance
is so moving, so unadulteratedly emotional, that you'll probably want to visit the apothecary as
well (not really).

5. Mascagni - Intermezzo, from Cavalleria Rusticana

Oh, can't you just feel it gushing out of you like a good old-fashioned river? That would be
romance. Oh my god, all it takes is one loud dose of this played at maximum power to
completely disintegrate somebody.
6. Handel - Ombra mai fù, from Xerxes
The epitome of simplicity, sweetness, and innocence. This is the sound of love beginning,
making it an ideal selection for when you're in the kitchen preparing a meal for a date and want
to appear knowledgeable as well as emotionally approachable.

7. Brahms - Intermezzo for piano, Op. 118 No. 2

Brahms's feelings for Clara, the wife of his close friend and teacher, served as the impetus for
writing this exquisite jewel for the piano. She was a talented pianist and Brahms' muse, and she
turned to him for inspiration when her husband's mental illness worsened during their marriage.
To this day, people argue over the answer to the question "Did they, or didn't they?"