The Well-Tempered Ear

What classical music and performers were the top sellers of 2009?

By Jacob Stockinger

So, Christmas is over and now we can look backward to the past year as we also look forward to the new year.

Care to guess which classical artists and what classical repertoire sold the most in 2009?

Here’s a story that I found eye-opening — and somewhat alarming as it regards the future of classical music and so-called “classical” music, including classical recordings.

Some clues: Violinist Joshua Bell (below) performed at the White House and was applauded by Michelle Obama.

The Chinese-born pianist Lang-Lang (see below, at the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony) — is known for his flamboyance, leading some detractors to nickname him Bang-Ban . But apparently a lot of the public disagrees.

Here’s a link:

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/culturemonster/2009/12/placido-domingo-lang-lang-and-the-soloist-make-billboards-top-classical-albums-of-2009.html

Let me know what you think.

The Ear wants to hear.