We become acquainted with classical music at an early age, be it from our parents, cartoons, or even airline commercials. But you probably came across “Toccata and Fugue in D minor” for the first time years ago today. It’s a staple of those spooky Halloween soundtracks you heard while grubbing for candy at a neighbor’s house. Beyond that, it’s probably the most famous organ composition of all time, and has been attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach. You’re listening to E. Power Biggs, one of the great masters of the instrument.
Speaking of costumes, what’s Lady Gaga’s connection to this piece? She played the first few bars as the opening to “Born This Way” at the 2011 Grammy Awards. Check it out right here.
Sound Beat is produced at the Belfer Audio Archive, Syracuse University Libraries.