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So bro, I thought it was really cool from the first time I saw it but I'm an amateur, but I think the older video can still inspire others to like classical music and guitar more like me for example, maybe a good idea would be for you to leave it linked to the old video its most recent interpretation, so whoever opens the old video at the end clicks on the recent one and sees its musical evolution. Another idea would also be to create a folder just for old videos that they consider that way, like Essays of the Past or Experiences of the Past. You are the man, congratulations for what you do and the inspirations you leave behind. 🎸🤘❤🔥
Both versions have their own charm. The first video is filled with the enthusiasm of youth. I don't mind the speeding up and slowing down. It was your honest interpretation at that stage of your life. The 2nd version is filled with your fully matured musical self. The small, emotional imperfections of the first attempt have been replaced with the small, purposefully selected imperfections that deepen the emotion of this piece. This is really why so many people have performed and recorded this specific Satie piece. It is so slowly paced that it allows the musician to take their time and fully explore their inner emotions through the instrument. It gives the player and listener time to ponder.
This was sooo wholesome! I also find it hard to listen to and appreciate my old recordings, and I loved the idea how you approached it from the perspective of improvment and that it's natural that we are all just moving forward. Every step is an important stage that led us to be wherever we are now. :)
This the most honest and modestly presented self critique I personally have ever witnessed anywhere. With my eyes closed I can hear and feel the differences in the presentations of the piece. Both are beautiful.
I found Satie`s Gymnopedie album in the University of Detroit Library in 1978. I wasn`t doing well in school. I took it back to my dorm room and listened to it as I once again attempted to study. It helped me tremendously. I did well in my studies after that. I love this music.
that harmonic at 14:53 gave me goosebumps! i have always loved your original interpretation and can't believe the level you are able to elevate it even more! the musical mount Everest is truly never summited.
That old video is a classic and one that I've returned to countless times! That being said, it's so cool and interesting seeing your perspective change as you look back at your old work through the lenses of the progress you've made. Never stop making music Brandon!
I’m so glad you did this video. I’m still a beginner student so seeing what and how you would improve a piece is very educational. Also inspiring to see where one can go in 10 years.
I think one thing you didn’t mention that has gotten much better is your tone! Not just is it deeper, and fuller, but much more even, which makes the phrases cohere much better! Great playing👍
As you played it ten years later, I was thinking of it reflects who you are now. The more recent version reflects phrasing that is more confident, you know what you want to say and you say it. You are a great player, I enjoyed how thoughtful you are. It reminds me to consider even the smallest element. Thanks for sharing.
"You are your own worst critic". The first time I watched that video it really caused deep emotions in me, your playing and the harmonics really made me see classical different, and while you contiously mentioning the stuff you don't like and correcting it musically, which I agree on, it still doesn't invalidate the feeling millions of people get unconsciously when listening to that video, because they just do, because you can't really justify what people find beautiful and what they shouldn't. Just like you mention at the end, it depends on personal factors that you don't even know about what you like and what you don't. Sometimes people just see this as a simple piece and like it being played simple and not too overthought musically, it can be the opposite way around, but this all changes and is up to every individual and thats what makes music beautiful :) great video Brandon, really made me reflect.
We must never be ashamed of how we were ten years ago. If anything, we should be ashamed if today we were the same as we were ten years ago. Congratulations on your progress, your musicality, instrumental quality and sympathy. (and thanks for the curious Shakespeare quote, I didn't know it)
4:40 I absolutely love this ebb and flow imagery of waves in your explanation here! Whenever making music I sometimes like to have a sort of picture or scenario in my mind's eye, to give that sort of context and personal immersion in the music. Really helps put pieces into perspective, and make it much more obvious as to why some parts were written a certain way. Beautiful explanation.
I always thought the title referred to "naked feet" as in barefoot. You might get the feelings the piece evokes whne dozing barefoot on the grass on a summer's day, or as, you say, rocking dreamily in a bost, again barefoot. The second playing I think breathes more, there is more space for the reverie to occur; the harmonics add to the dreamlike, airy quality. Very instructive, and a good example of turning a "liability" into an asset, and making your point on continuing learning, seeing, hearing, and slugging it out. Thanks, Brandon!
The old version was the first video I watched on your channel and I was completely in love 😅 And I still really love the old one, even if you broke the tempo, it's still beautiful, touching and genuine!
Your rendition on the guitar of this timeless piece is truly captivating! For some inexplicable reason, many performances of the Gymnopedies seem to diminish their inherent beauty and magic. All too frequently, performers either hasten through the piece or play it with an unwavering, mechanical precision, devoid of emotion or nuance. However, your interpretation brought out the dynamics and fluidity that I believe the piece demands. To my ears, Khatia Buniatishvili's rendition of Gymnopedie no.1 remains one of the most sublime piano performances, and your guitar version is right up there with it. Well done!
oh my it’s so funny that even a musician as great as you cringes at old recordings as well! I can’t tell you how many times i’ve regretted posting a video of my playing even if lots of people loved it. Such an awesome video Brandon and gymnopedie no.1 was the first video of yours I ever watched, cheers!
I think that you understand the music on a different level. I didn't have any complaints about your video from ten years ago, I listen to it regularly and I hear and see your improvements.. I like them both but the new version is an improvement. Thanks for sharing your music.
Holy moly. I don't know much about music theory or how to play guitar, but after seeing your first gymneopodie video about a year ago, it inspired me to learn the piece. I've been working on it here and there, and I've got to say, this new version you've released is hands down EXACTLY the vibe I've been so eagerly trying to bring to life. When you resolve that first section with those high notes, it felt like cracking an egg of joy open. I dont know how else to describe it. Thats how i felt. It was so slow but so calculated, and so mmmmmf, GOOD. It fucking hit me to my core and stopped me in my tracks. This new rendition is hands down utterly beautiful. I'll be revisiting this a lot in the future. You killed it. Thank you.
I prefer the new version much over the old one both in watching and listening. As you said the old version displays a lot of show whereas the recent one carries natural expression. Now you are intimately connected to the tune and pull out great detail in rhythm, loudness and tempo which all three are much varied. Now you can play every single note with expression, you vary space between notes and play from loud and rough to calm and smooth which makes all the difference between good and exceptional. Thank you so much!!!
I am new to your channel and while I don't play an instrument anymore (I stopped playing/learning the accordion in 2001 and switched to singing .. bit of a shame now, I'll admit), I completely get what you're saying in terms of being new to classical music, at some point, and just singing/playing notes and chords, without realizing what they mean. So in terms of this, your new version does the music a LOT more justice, even though I still really like your first version, too. One thing, that makes your new version much better, in my mind, is the added softness to the sound you seem to be getting from not playing with your fingernails. Also: It's a marvel to see you describe and explain music as tenderly and lovingly as you do and it fits this particular piece so perfectly, as it itself is so gentle and fragile. You do that justice without even playing it, but when you do.. Oh boy.
The biggest difference I can hear with my limited ear is how much more aware you are of the connection between your fingers and the strings. When you played that now there's more dynamics in volume and feel, a lighter touch and then a shade louder and back again; beautiful!
When I first saw the old video, I was impressed with the interpretation and execution. The whole thing was rather striking with the guitar being held on a strap and played so artfully. But, listening and watching you critique yourself, then perform again was very moving. I started early playing rock, then singer/songwriter folk, and finally classical in my 30's. I still play a little bit of everything but nothing at the level to which you have climbed. Even so, I can definitely tell you that you will continue to grow and change. At 72, my playing is much different than at 35. But it is all still in pursuit of translating emotion to sound, yes? And Brandon, you do that exquisitely! I loved the first video. But I truly love the current playing. Thank you!!!
I absolutely love the attention you gave to the ostinato in this video, the little back and forth and the subtle changes to the inner voicings have always been my favorite part of the song. It was one of the first songs I ever learned on piano and I would just sit and play the ostinato over and over and over because it felt so free and beautiful. Love Satie and love this rendition! Cheers
That video was how I discovered your channel. I was in a bit of a funk and it inspired me to pick up a guitar again. Im still learning so it's interesting to see how you've evolved over the years. Both sound great imo. Thanks for sharing.
that example with the ostinato shows the real depth of music for me. you can play the same notes in so many ways even at the same tempo, it's not how you play them, it's how you express with them
I didn't realize this piece had such a hypnotic effect until you pointed it out and portrayed it so well in the second edition. I love the philosophy at the end of this video on the art of interpretation. As a beginner in guitar, I have a tendency to want to learn as much as I can as quickly as possible and to learn songs to have a repertoire going (hopefully a common response for beginners. lol) but the ending really brought to heart on why I'm doing what I'm doing; to play the pieces that have moved me the most and play them as beautifully as I can in that moment. Thank you for showing your progress in this video and inspiring me to go about my journey with my future pieces in a deeper, heartfelt way.
Sometimes "innocence" can be more beautiful...both pieces have their own merit and charm. There is not one better or one worse, they are a "screenshot" of that moment.
Your vibrato has improved considerably and matches the piece much better. Ten years ago you were a blues/rock musician playing a classical guitar piece. The updated rendition is a classical guitarist getting far more from the notes on the page and the leveraging of technique and experience.
some of the other gems this guy used in his sheet music: "From the edges of thought", and my favorite, "Very shining". I started playing 2 years ago (inspired by you of course) and I still have trouble playing too fast when I should be slow. I saw a video of Tatyana Ryzhkova playing Sor's 35 15 at a glacial pace and it blew my mind and I realized I was approaching everything wrong
Today's version is fantastic!!! The old one is good too, but the new one is significantly better. Mainly in the praising of the melody, your pacing and dynamics are much better now. The music comes through with clarity and beauty. Thank you!
So many memories. I stumboled upon that video while searching for Gymnopédie after hearing it for the first time in movie "The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya" somewhere around 2013. Such a beatiful tune and incredible perfomance.
And your hair is still divine (sorry, I had to), This video taught me a lot. I second doing a standalone video of your latest version and keeping the old one, if only for the silly comments. Even 10 years ago, you knew how to make the strings sing and how to put the listener into a waking dream.
I'm 37 in a couple days and like you, I have come from playing heavier music as in hardcore, punk, grunge and noisy screamo bands all my life as a throaty frontman and noisy, chaotic guitarist. I've always busted out Mass in B minor Agnus Dei before a noisy grunge show, haha, which is one of my favorite guitar pieces and I am thinking of finally picking up classical guitar for real.
Bravo! Leave this video up. It really helps students who are perhaps listening to a lot of masters playing 'perfectly' on UA-cam (you included now) and these same students may be thinking they are not progressing rapidly enough and give up. This video helps people understand the progress to mastery and importantly, over that 10 years a person has practiced 13,440 hours (if practicing 4 hrs per day, 7 days a week which many of us have done). Thank you for sharing AND just think of how you will be critiquing yourself in another 10 years!!!
This is a wonderful concept! We are always learning,changing,growing...playing or listening. Sometimes the younger you might suit my mood...other times the wiser more nuanced performance. Technology lets us have it all...when it's working!🎉
The critique is really wholesome and its very interesting to see how an artist views their own work years later! So much experience shows with the depth of your playing. The only thing for me is that I really liked how the old instrument sounded maybe even better than the new one.
I think art is what people think about something and how they interact with it, not how the artist feels about. I mean if we all loved it, then it's beautiful and there is no need to be removed ❤
Beautifully played... articulate, and displaying wonderful musicality. This "self-masterclass" is awesome. When Pablo Casals was advancing in age he made a comment that I believe is similar to one of the excellent points you make..."Because I think I am making progress. I feel that I am still growing, still developing. I feel that I'm just beginning. I have a long way to go and a lot to learn." Cheers 🎶
Brandon ,par pitié, n 'efface pas la première version !! C 'est vraiment très beau . Tu l 'as jouée avec TON COEUR ! C 'est ça qui importe vraiment. Ne suranalyse pas au risque de perdre cette spontanéité. Ce serait tellement dommage !!!😥 Hé bien ,tu vois ,moi je préfère ta première version. Et si tu la supprimes ...je te mords !!! 😋😄😄
First of all, 10 years ago is just as you are now. you are a highlander! no aging at all! and both version I love them, yet the 2023 version is more soothing and mature. love what you are doing man! you inspired me!
I stumbled on the first version and thought the same as you when I listened to your later version( in terms of speed). I still loved it. You know, I really like the tone of your old guitar and the room (?) acoustics of the first version. Of course later version great .
Both hold a special value. Music is just as much of the artist as it is about the piece itself. One can say they prefer the rawness of the older recording, as the color of the piece differs from the sheet music over the refinement of the newest. “If it sounds good it is good” Yngwie malmsteen
I think what you said here is essential, interpretation is what makes me want to play, is what makes it worth, and I felt like I should have known that way back when I was just starting to play.
Both! My perspective is the one of the listener who focus on the sound and emotion, and, even though I play guitar for some 30 years, and could grasp some understanding of your point of view, the details that you analyze, at this level, are, again, from the listener point of view, so negligible and even unnoticeable.
Fascinating. One artist, one piece, one performer, but two decidedly different performances. Both delightful. Many of your introspective critiques are both fair and illustrative of your growth. Your increased attention to emotional intent, rhythm, dynamics and phrasing added a lot to this more recent performance. The quiet and serene tone thinly veiled a somber disquietude, like a frail gauze draped over a pensive bronze statue, and animated by the slightest ethereal breeze. Better and better, as ever. Play on good sir, play on.
Your OG video looks like as if Squall just having a cutscene moment in the game playing the tune. For those who don't know about games, I'm referring to Final Fantasy 8.
Hey Brandon, I discovered you through the old video when I was taking lessons for Classical guitar. I've been wanting to learn the piece but I am too afraid I might mess up playing the melody through harmonics but as you said by the end of the video, we can all interpet a piece differently. Took me so many years, this time I'll just go for it. 😀
I really love the first one. I discovered you with that one but man, this refreshing interpretation is outstanding. Just beautiful, I really learn a lot with you. Thx for the wonderful music!
Your original video was always a favorite, a go to when I wanted to hear Gymnopedie. But I always wondered, how would it feel and sound now? This was a gift. Thank you.
Hi Brandon ! Great video but I still prefer the first version! I think is the nails and the whole performance and showmanship( it feels that you are driven by feeling 😎👌) in the second version it feels that the permonce is more in tempo but mental at the same time . Great content as always, cheers!
In both you are awesome and play beautifully. In the first you were playing more as a classical guitarist. In the new video I hear the artist in you. It's great to see how much you have grown in ten years. I look forward to seeing you grow in the years to come. Great work. God bless.
I would definitely suggest keeping it up. I understand it hurts seeing the flaws in old performances but please understand this could help and inspire lots of other musicians who are in the same situation. Seeing the original video is beautiful but it's great seeing the maturity and growth in your performance. Understanding the music and the story that the piece is trying to tell is critical in music. Keep it up and spread the message to others not to give up and see how much they have matured in their art. Amazing job, well done.
Hi Brandon, it's a great pleasure to hear how much you've developed as a guitarist and musician in only 10 years. I'm a metal guitarist and always learn a lot from watching your videos. Thank you for the fantastic service you provide . The new version really tugs at my heart strings, and it was not until you mentioned all the areas on which you could improve that I picked up on them. I feel inspired to put all my might into guitar playing when I hear your passion for music! :)
i watch your old video every week. it is so hard for me the nail those bar chords. but i am getting better. the last 3 quarters of the piece is really daunting. even though i noticed the rushing in the old video, overall your old video sounds more soothing to me.
Definitely, the new version. Much more sensitive. Can certainly hear a difference. As for rusing the single notes in the original, you seem to have learned a lesson from one of my favorite singers in the last 10 years. Or at least you could have. Frank Sinatra had great timing that set him apart from everyone else. There was a relaxed hesitation that leaves you in pleasant anticipation of the note. Your playing now has that feeling about it. It's a good thing.
I understand why you feel the way you do about the older recording. To me it's a little bit like listening to a guitar player who is absolutely perfect in recreating the piece as it is written, but it lacks soul. I also appreciate your comment about what the performer is doing as being the most beautiful to them at that time. Music being an expression of the soul means we should play it for ourselves and others are invited along on the expressive journey.
As someone who is not a musician or typically a classical music fan, your playing is incredibly beautiful. This song specifically reminds me of a lot of the music Koji Kondo wrote for Ocarina of Time. Have you ever played those songs? Sure they aren't classical, they are from a more recent video game, but I think you would enjoy them and play them so beautifully.
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Your humble self reflection and fearless honesty reveal your true wisdom, brother 🙏
So bro, I thought it was really cool from the first time I saw it but I'm an amateur, but I think the older video can still inspire others to like classical music and guitar more like me for example, maybe a good idea would be for you to leave it linked to the old video its most recent interpretation, so whoever opens the old video at the end clicks on the recent one and sees its musical evolution. Another idea would also be to create a folder just for old videos that they consider that way, like Essays of the Past or Experiences of the Past. You are the man, congratulations for what you do and the inspirations you leave behind.
🎸🤘❤🔥
Even though you dislike that old video I enjoy it all the time. It's very relaxing and peaceful. So please don't take it down.
Everybody is their own worst critic.
@@AnthonySmith-sc4zsOr best critic
True. It is amazing
I prefer this new one. But Leon S. Kennedy playing Gymnopedie is still a sight to behold!
EDIT: Grats on 500k subscribers!
Lol the resemblance is insane. Like even the lighting is RE4 lighting
LMAO that's the first thing I thought too
this should be the top comment
Def Leon!
Leon playing Minecraft music is a good vid
Both versions have their own charm. The first video is filled with the enthusiasm of youth. I don't mind the speeding up and slowing down. It was your honest interpretation at that stage of your life. The 2nd version is filled with your fully matured musical self. The small, emotional imperfections of the first attempt have been replaced with the small, purposefully selected imperfections that deepen the emotion of this piece.
This is really why so many people have performed and recorded this specific Satie piece. It is so slowly paced that it allows the musician to take their time and fully explore their inner emotions through the instrument. It gives the player and listener time to ponder.
🤗💯🎯👏👏👏👏 Agreed.
This is a beautiful description
This was sooo wholesome! I also find it hard to listen to and appreciate my old recordings, and I loved the idea how you approached it from the perspective of improvment and that it's natural that we are all just moving forward. Every step is an important stage that led us to be wherever we are now. :)
his new guitar is wayyyyy better too
Thank you, Beatrix!
This the most honest and modestly presented self critique I personally have ever witnessed anywhere. With my eyes closed I can hear and feel the differences in the presentations of the piece. Both are beautiful.
Same, but with my new recordings also 😂😢
The vampire never ages, he only becomes more experienced with time.
Silence, pauses, negative space are so important in music IMO and I think you really gave them the room they deserve in this version.
I found Satie`s Gymnopedie album in the University of Detroit Library in 1978. I wasn`t doing well in school.
I took it back to my dorm room and listened to it as I once again attempted to study. It helped me tremendously. I did well in my studies after that. I love this music.
you play a lot calmer, relaxed and with a lot more control now, can feel it instantly. Feels a lot softer, smoother and sweeter.
that harmonic at 14:53 gave me goosebumps! i have always loved your original interpretation and can't believe the level you are able to elevate it even more! the musical mount Everest is truly never summited.
best year of my life
I noticed that harmonic too - silvery
That old video is a classic and one that I've returned to countless times! That being said, it's so cool and interesting seeing your perspective change as you look back at your old work through the lenses of the progress you've made. Never stop making music Brandon!
It's not about the music. It's about the LEON VIBE
I’m so glad you did this video. I’m still a beginner student so seeing what and how you would improve a piece is very educational. Also inspiring to see where one can go in 10 years.
I think one thing you didn’t mention that has gotten much better is your tone! Not just is it deeper, and fuller, but much more even, which makes the phrases cohere much better!
Great playing👍
Can you maybe upload the new version as a standalone? It's a beautiful version, I'd love to listen to it from time to time.
I plan to :) Thank you!
Yesss
😊
@@brandonackerstill waiting 😁
still waiting
As you played it ten years later, I was thinking of it reflects who you are now. The more recent version reflects phrasing that is more confident, you know what you want to say and you say it. You are a great player, I enjoyed how thoughtful you are. It reminds me to consider even the smallest element. Thanks for sharing.
"You are your own worst critic". The first time I watched that video it really caused deep emotions in me, your playing and the harmonics really made me see classical different, and while you contiously mentioning the stuff you don't like and correcting it musically, which I agree on, it still doesn't invalidate the feeling millions of people get unconsciously when listening to that video, because they just do, because you can't really justify what people find beautiful and what they shouldn't. Just like you mention at the end, it depends on personal factors that you don't even know about what you like and what you don't. Sometimes people just see this as a simple piece and like it being played simple and not too overthought musically, it can be the opposite way around, but this all changes and is up to every individual and thats what makes music beautiful :) great video Brandon, really made me reflect.
We must never be ashamed of how we were ten years ago. If anything, we should be ashamed if today we were the same as we were ten years ago.
Congratulations on your progress, your musicality, instrumental quality and sympathy.
(and thanks for the curious Shakespeare quote, I didn't know it)
4:40 I absolutely love this ebb and flow imagery of waves in your explanation here! Whenever making music I sometimes like to have a sort of picture or scenario in my mind's eye, to give that sort of context and personal immersion in the music. Really helps put pieces into perspective, and make it much more obvious as to why some parts were written a certain way. Beautiful explanation.
I always thought the title referred to "naked feet" as in barefoot. You might get the feelings the piece evokes whne dozing barefoot on the grass on a summer's day, or as, you say, rocking dreamily in a bost, again barefoot.
The second playing I think breathes more, there is more space for the reverie to occur; the harmonics add to the dreamlike, airy quality.
Very instructive, and a good example of turning a "liability" into an asset, and making your point on continuing learning, seeing, hearing, and slugging it out.
Thanks, Brandon!
The old version was the first video I watched on your channel and I was completely in love 😅
And I still really love the old one, even if you broke the tempo, it's still beautiful, touching and genuine!
Your rendition on the guitar of this timeless piece is truly captivating! For some inexplicable reason, many performances of the Gymnopedies seem to diminish their inherent beauty and magic. All too frequently, performers either hasten through the piece or play it with an unwavering, mechanical precision, devoid of emotion or nuance. However, your interpretation brought out the dynamics and fluidity that I believe the piece demands. To my ears, Khatia Buniatishvili's rendition of Gymnopedie no.1 remains one of the most sublime piano performances, and your guitar version is right up there with it. Well done!
This is a gift to humankind. Keep creating. Thank you.
oh my it’s so funny that even a musician as great as you cringes at old recordings as well! I can’t tell you how many times i’ve regretted posting a video of
my playing even if lots of people loved it. Such an awesome video Brandon and gymnopedie no.1 was the first video of yours I ever watched, cheers!
I think that you understand the music on a different level. I didn't have any complaints about your video from ten years ago, I listen to it regularly and I hear and see your improvements.. I like them both but the new version is an improvement. Thanks for sharing your music.
Holy moly. I don't know much about music theory or how to play guitar, but after seeing your first gymneopodie video about a year ago, it inspired me to learn the piece. I've been working on it here and there, and I've got to say, this new version you've released is hands down EXACTLY the vibe I've been so eagerly trying to bring to life. When you resolve that first section with those high notes, it felt like cracking an egg of joy open. I dont know how else to describe it. Thats how i felt. It was so slow but so calculated, and so mmmmmf, GOOD. It fucking hit me to my core and stopped me in my tracks. This new rendition is hands down utterly beautiful. I'll be revisiting this a lot in the future. You killed it. Thank you.
I prefer the new version much over the old one both in watching and listening. As you said the old version displays a lot of show whereas the recent one carries natural expression. Now you are intimately connected to the tune and pull out great detail in rhythm, loudness and tempo which all three are much varied. Now you can play every single note with expression, you vary space between notes and play from loud and rough to calm and smooth which makes all the difference between good and exceptional.
Thank you so much!!!
The sheer skill added now and the delicacy added is so good. Thank you!
I am new to your channel and while I don't play an instrument anymore (I stopped playing/learning the accordion in 2001 and switched to singing .. bit of a shame now, I'll admit), I completely get what you're saying in terms of being new to classical music, at some point, and just singing/playing notes and chords, without realizing what they mean. So in terms of this, your new version does the music a LOT more justice, even though I still really like your first version, too.
One thing, that makes your new version much better, in my mind, is the added softness to the sound you seem to be getting from not playing with your fingernails.
Also: It's a marvel to see you describe and explain music as tenderly and lovingly as you do and it fits this particular piece so perfectly, as it itself is so gentle and fragile. You do that justice without even playing it, but when you do.. Oh boy.
The biggest difference I can hear with my limited ear is how much more aware you are of the connection between your fingers and the strings. When you played that now there's more dynamics in volume and feel, a lighter touch and then a shade louder and back again; beautiful!
very insightful! Loved the way you analyzed your old recording. While your older video wasn't bad at all you definitely improved a lot.
keep it up :)!
When I first saw the old video, I was impressed with the interpretation and execution. The whole thing was rather striking with the guitar being held on a strap and played so artfully. But, listening and watching you critique yourself, then perform again was very moving. I started early playing rock, then singer/songwriter folk, and finally classical in my 30's. I still play a little bit of everything but nothing at the level to which you have climbed. Even so, I can definitely tell you that you will continue to grow and change. At 72, my playing is much different than at 35. But it is all still in pursuit of translating emotion to sound, yes? And Brandon, you do that exquisitely! I loved the first video. But I truly love the current playing. Thank you!!!
Your new playing, without nails, feels much more personal and less mechanical. It has been great learning from you.
I absolutely love the attention you gave to the ostinato in this video, the little back and forth and the subtle changes to the inner voicings have always been my favorite part of the song.
It was one of the first songs I ever learned on piano and I would just sit and play the ostinato over and over and over because it felt so free and beautiful. Love Satie and love this rendition! Cheers
That video was how I discovered your channel. I was in a bit of a funk and it inspired me to pick up a guitar again. Im still learning so it's interesting to see how you've evolved over the years. Both sound great imo. Thanks for sharing.
that example with the ostinato shows the real depth of music for me. you can play the same notes in so many ways even at the same tempo, it's not how you play them, it's how you express with them
I didn't realize this piece had such a hypnotic effect until you pointed it out and portrayed it so well in the second edition. I love the philosophy at the end of this video on the art of interpretation. As a beginner in guitar, I have a tendency to want to learn as much as I can as quickly as possible and to learn songs to have a repertoire going (hopefully a common response for beginners. lol) but the ending really brought to heart on why I'm doing what I'm doing; to play the pieces that have moved me the most and play them as beautifully as I can in that moment. Thank you for showing your progress in this video and inspiring me to go about my journey with my future pieces in a deeper, heartfelt way.
Sometimes "innocence" can be more beautiful...both pieces have their own merit and charm. There is not one better or one worse, they are a "screenshot" of that moment.
I met Brandon's channel because of that Gymnopedie rendition. Genius, and at that time he already looked like an RPG character haha
Fr he looked like a vampire. Still doesn't look like he aged a day so who knows? Lol.
Rushed tears into my eyes. Beautiful.
That was one of the first videos of yours that I saw, I love it. But I also enjoy watching you progress over the years!
I will going to support you on every 10 years in future, Mr. Acker. Greetings for Hong Kong😊
Your vibrato has improved considerably and matches the piece much better. Ten years ago you were a blues/rock musician playing a classical guitar piece. The updated rendition is a classical guitarist getting far more from the notes on the page and the leveraging of technique and experience.
some of the other gems this guy used in his sheet music: "From the edges of thought", and my favorite, "Very shining". I started playing 2 years ago (inspired by you of course) and I still have trouble playing too fast when I should be slow. I saw a video of Tatyana Ryzhkova playing Sor's 35 15 at a glacial pace and it blew my mind and I realized I was approaching everything wrong
Both of them are great and have a certain personality. I love this. The PASSION you have. I freaking love it dude.
Today's version is fantastic!!! The old one is good too, but the new one is significantly better. Mainly in the praising of the melody, your pacing and dynamics are much better now. The music comes through with clarity and beauty. Thank you!
So many memories. I stumboled upon that video while searching for Gymnopédie after hearing it for the first time in movie "The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya" somewhere around 2013.
Such a beatiful tune and incredible perfomance.
the insight, the passion is all so sweet to me.
cant wait for the update
And your hair is still divine (sorry, I had to), This video taught me a lot. I second doing a standalone video of your latest version and keeping the old one, if only for the silly comments. Even 10 years ago, you knew how to make the strings sing and how to put the listener into a waking dream.
I'm 37 in a couple days and like you, I have come from playing heavier music as in hardcore, punk, grunge and noisy screamo bands all my life as a throaty frontman and noisy, chaotic guitarist. I've always busted out Mass in B minor Agnus Dei before a noisy grunge show, haha, which is one of my favorite guitar pieces and I am thinking of finally picking up classical guitar for real.
I always learn such a lot about music from your videos. I liked both versions.
Bravo! Leave this video up. It really helps students who are perhaps listening to a lot of masters playing 'perfectly' on UA-cam (you included now) and these same students may be thinking they are not progressing rapidly enough and give up. This video helps people understand the progress to mastery and importantly, over that 10 years a person has practiced 13,440 hours (if practicing 4 hrs per day, 7 days a week which many of us have done). Thank you for sharing AND just think of how you will be critiquing yourself in another 10 years!!!
This is a wonderful concept! We are always learning,changing,growing...playing or listening. Sometimes the younger you might suit my mood...other times the wiser more nuanced performance. Technology lets us have it all...when it's working!🎉
The critique is really wholesome and its very interesting to see how an artist views their own work years later! So much experience shows with the depth of your playing. The only thing for me is that I really liked how the old instrument sounded maybe even better than the new one.
Nevermind I just noticed the nails difference between versions thats what made the old instruments a bit clearer sounding.
Hey Brandon, you are almost about to hit 500k subscribers. Don't think I forgot about the giveaway. Love your channel.
Oui ,on y est presque . Félicitations, Brandon!! 🤗
I think art is what people think about something and how they interact with it, not how the artist feels about. I mean if we all loved it, then it's beautiful and there is no need to be removed ❤
Beautifully played... articulate, and displaying wonderful musicality.
This "self-masterclass" is awesome.
When Pablo Casals was advancing in age he made a comment that I believe is similar to one of the excellent points you make..."Because I think I am making progress. I feel that I am still growing, still developing. I feel that I'm just beginning. I have a long way to go and a lot to learn."
Cheers 🎶
You're a big inspiration Brandon
Brandon ,par pitié, n 'efface pas la première version !! C 'est vraiment très beau . Tu l 'as jouée avec TON COEUR ! C 'est ça qui importe vraiment. Ne suranalyse pas au risque de perdre cette spontanéité. Ce serait tellement dommage !!!😥
Hé bien ,tu vois ,moi je préfère ta première version.
Et si tu la supprimes ...je te mords !!! 😋😄😄
Keep the original up, It’s honest and shows your journey. It’s also excellent.
Wonderful insights into the playing of this beautiful piece in particular and into the evolution of our playing in general. Thank you!
First of all, 10 years ago is just as you are now. you are a highlander! no aging at all! and both version I love them, yet the 2023 version is more soothing and mature. love what you are doing man! you inspired me!
Congrats on 500.000 subs!
I stumbled on the first version and thought the same as you when I listened to your later version( in terms of speed). I still loved it.
You know, I really like the tone of your old guitar and the room (?) acoustics of the first version.
Of course later version great .
Both hold a special value. Music is just as much of the artist as it is about the piece itself. One can say they prefer the rawness of the older recording, as the color of the piece differs from the sheet music over the refinement of the newest.
“If it sounds good it is good” Yngwie malmsteen
I think what you said here is essential, interpretation is what makes me want to play, is what makes it worth, and I felt like I should have known that way back when I was just starting to play.
Both! My perspective is the one of the listener who focus on the sound and emotion, and, even though I play guitar for some 30 years, and could grasp some understanding of your point of view, the details that you analyze, at this level, are, again, from the listener point of view, so negligible and even unnoticeable.
Can't wait to see how you play it in 10 years
Very intriguing. I really like your style and teacning method. Thanks....
Just started learning this mesmerizing piece🎶🤗
Fascinating. One artist, one piece, one performer, but two decidedly different performances.
Both delightful. Many of your introspective critiques are both fair and illustrative of your growth.
Your increased attention to emotional intent, rhythm, dynamics and phrasing added a lot to this more recent performance.
The quiet and serene tone thinly veiled a somber disquietude, like a frail gauze draped over a pensive bronze statue, and animated by the slightest ethereal breeze.
Better and better, as ever. Play on good sir, play on.
that video made me want to learn this song and I did! because of you posting that video. Thank you for making an even better version of it!
Really get more motivation when I watch your videos it's made me practice more and I tell myself I will be better one day ❤❤❤❤❤
Your OG video looks like as if Squall just having a cutscene moment in the game playing the tune.
For those who don't know about games, I'm referring to Final Fantasy 8.
Thank you Brandon! Your videos are informative and fun! Thanks!
So beautiful and peaceful, I almost fell asleep.
I think it is beautifully played
I watched the last one before bed for maybe a couple months, so good man
Hey Brandon, I discovered you through the old video when I was taking lessons for Classical guitar. I've been wanting to learn the piece but I am too afraid I might mess up playing the melody through harmonics but as you said by the end of the video, we can all interpet a piece differently. Took me so many years, this time I'll just go for it. 😀
I knew you'd improved when you melted Rob Scallion's sound guy's face off during their visit to the Brune shop - but this rendition is incredible!
I really love the first one. I discovered you with that one but man, this refreshing interpretation is outstanding. Just beautiful, I really learn a lot with you. Thx for the wonderful music!
AMAZING explanations and metaphors for how you interpret this piece. I love that "watching the water" metaphor. It sent shivers down my body.
So we’re not gonna talk about how he looks exactly like Leon and Squall??
Brilliant
I love fellow musicians
Your original video was always a favorite, a go to when I wanted to hear Gymnopedie. But I always wondered, how would it feel and sound now? This was a gift. Thank you.
So wonderful.
Hi Brandon ! Great video but I still prefer the first version! I think is the nails and the whole performance and showmanship( it feels that you are driven by feeling 😎👌) in the second version it feels that the permonce is more in tempo but mental at the same time . Great content as always, cheers!
The curse of the artist is to be in a lifelong pursuit of beauty.
In both you are awesome and play beautifully. In the first you were playing more as a classical guitarist. In the new video I hear the artist in you. It's great to see how much you have grown in ten years. I look forward to seeing you grow in the years to come. Great work. God bless.
I would definitely suggest keeping it up. I understand it hurts seeing the flaws in old performances but please understand this could help and inspire lots of other musicians who are in the same situation. Seeing the original video is beautiful but it's great seeing the maturity and growth in your performance. Understanding the music and the story that the piece is trying to tell is critical in music. Keep it up and spread the message to others not to give up and see how much they have matured in their art. Amazing job, well done.
Hi Brandon, it's a great pleasure to hear how much you've developed as a guitarist and musician in only 10 years. I'm a metal guitarist and always learn a lot from watching your videos. Thank you for the fantastic service you provide . The new version really tugs at my heart strings, and it was not until you mentioned all the areas on which you could improve that I picked up on them.
I feel inspired to put all my might into guitar playing when I hear your passion for music! :)
just getting into classical guitar and your videos have been helping me improve leaps and bounds. thank you.
i watch your old video every week. it is so hard for me the nail those bar chords. but i am getting better. the last 3 quarters of the piece is really daunting. even though i noticed the rushing in the old video, overall your old video sounds more soothing to me.
Such an amazing artist .. Great progress
Definitely, the new version. Much more sensitive. Can certainly hear a difference.
As for rusing the single notes in the original, you seem to have learned a lesson from one of my favorite singers in the last 10 years. Or at least you could have.
Frank Sinatra had great timing that set him apart from everyone else. There was a relaxed hesitation that leaves you in pleasant anticipation of the note. Your playing now has that feeling about it. It's a good thing.
Thank you so very much for this update. I've listened to and loved your old version countless times.
A great excerise for growth.
I understand why you feel the way you do about the older recording. To me it's a little bit like listening to a guitar player who is absolutely perfect in recreating the piece as it is written, but it lacks soul. I also appreciate your comment about what the performer is doing as being the most beautiful to them at that time. Music being an expression of the soul means we should play it for ourselves and others are invited along on the expressive journey.
As someone who is not a musician or typically a classical music fan, your playing is incredibly beautiful. This song specifically reminds me of a lot of the music Koji Kondo wrote for Ocarina of Time. Have you ever played those songs? Sure they aren't classical, they are from a more recent video game, but I think you would enjoy them and play them so beautifully.
Your new guitar has an amazing sound.
Oh yes !
I enjoyed them both. This version you seemed to be listening and living the music more.