Teachers’ Favourite Tunes Part 4

We continue to explore the music that inspired our teachers. So whether you’re seeking inspiration, relaxation, or simply a new groove to move to, look no further than the diverse musical tastes of our beloved teachers. Let their favorite tunes guide you on a melodic journey that transcends boundaries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the universal language of music. 🎵🌟 If students, or any other teachers, would like to contribute with their song choices, we welcome wholeheartedly your diverse musical choices to share with SFL. Please send to sflacts@gmail.com

First up is Massimiliano Damiani, known to his friends and students as ‘Max’

Ennio Morricone (Italy) – ”Ecstasy of Gold”

I grew up watching Sergio Leone’s spaghetti western movies. For me, nothing beats ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’. Ennio Morricone created the music for this legendary film. One piece, in my opinion, stands out because it defines this genre of movies. It is called ‘Ecstasy of Gold’, a true masterpiece! I was fortunate enough to go to a Morricone’s concert at the O2 Arena in London in 2015. The experience was magical! He was old and I knew there wasn’t going to be another opportunity. He passed a few years later.

Thank you for the magic Ennio!

Journey (USA) – ”Don’t stop believin”

Gives me great energy, simply one of the best songs ever!

Lisa Gerrard (Australia) / Hans Zimmer (Germany) – ”Now we are free”

Remember ‘Gladiator’? Epic movie, wonderful music!

Ludovico Einaudi (Italy) – ”Nuvole Bianche (White Clouds)”

When I listen to this, there’s peace in the world for about 6 minutes…

Hans Zimmer (Germany) – ”Time”

A fantastic piece of music. When I hear this, I feel powerful!

Finally I would like to contribute but I found it so difficult to keep it to 5. I have split it down into 3 categories of 5 – Classics, Pop and Punk Classics. So these are the choices from Charles Riddell.

The Beatles ‘’Something’’ George Harrison is so underrated as a song writer. To me, this song is the purest composition. A blend of perfect lyrics with melancholic chords and a solid perfect solo. Has to be one of the strongest Beatles songs ever!

Pink Floyd ‘’Comfortably Numb’’ Perhaps two of the best guitar solos of all time inside one classic Pink Floyd song from their concept album ”The Wall” This song always takes me on a journey and it never grows old.

The Kinks ‘’Waterloo Sunset’’ Everyone talks about The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, but I think The Kinks are another underrated group who wrote classics just as important as the other two bands. This song has such simple lyrics but they are magnificent in their simplicity. Every time I listen to it, I visualise London in the 60s and I can almost taste the air.

Don Henley ’’Boys of Summer’’ This to me is one of those songs that reminds me of a past life and unrequited love. It takes me back to one of my first romances and the regret about not making the right decisıons at the time. I will not elaborate any further!!

Joni Mitchell ‘’Both Sides Now’’ This later version with Joni and an orchestra has to be the most emotional composition I can recommend.

The Who ‘’My Generation’’ Blistering bass solo from John Entwistle. Say no more. I remember jumping around all over the place to this one as a young man. Although a 60s song, it has that punk spirit which kicked it all off really.

The Jam ‘’A-Bomb in Wardour Street’’ This has always seemed to me to be a true punk classic.

The Saints ‘’Know Your Product’’ The UK had the Sex Pistols, the US had the Ramones and out of Australia came these guys. Not very well known but well ahead of their time. Trumpet and saxophone in a punk song, who would have thought that would work?

Sex Pistols ‘’Bodies’’ The true antithesis of all that is pure and innocent, this song blew me away when I first heard it and it continues to do that today, even after 47 years. Warning to all who click on the link, lyrics are not for the faint hearted and if you get offended easily, perhaps best to leave it unclicked! I have posted a link for the whole album as it truly is a perfect example of a flawless album.

Nirvana ‘’Aneurysm’’ If you bought Smells Like Teen Spirit on a single or 12” vinyl, turn it over and play the B Side. This songs kicks seriously.

And bringing up the rear, something a bit different and a little more ‘poppy’

Frank Black ‘’Headache’’ Deciding to venture out on a solo project away from the Pixies, Frank put together this quirky number that never fails to get your foot tapping.

Erasure ‘’Drama’’ Not a big fan of electronic music, but this duo had something special. Great song, great lyrics and he had a great voice.

The Cars ‘’Just What I Needed’’ Great song, remember this one from the Live Aid concert.

Pete Shelley ‘’Homosapien’’ Breaking away from the Buzzcocks, Pete Shelley composed this song which proved to be way ahead of its time.

The Walker Brothers ‘’The Sun Aint Gonna Shine Anymore’’ Scott Walker probably had one of the most distinct, fantastic voices in the 60s. I finish with this one. Pure excellence.