The Musical Preferences of Sherlock Holmes

Throughout the adventures of Sherlock Holmes, author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle delves into the detective's love for classical music and the soundtrack of his adventures. This exploration of Holmes' musical preferences reveals a man who not only savored the elegance of classical concerts but also had a deep appreciation for specific composers, performers, and even genres, such as opera.

Introduction to Holmes' Musical Sensibilities

In the beginning, Holmes' love for music is introduced in A Study in Scarlet, where his fondness for classical concerts is mentioned. These concerts were often featured with real-life performers, including virtuosos such as Pablo de Sarasate and Wilhelmina Norman-Neruda, playing in the audience. Another notable mention of Holmes' preference for real performers is in The Adventure of the Cardboard Box, where he is associated with the violin virtuoso Niccolò Paganini. However, no specific composer is identified as Holmes' favorite in these instances.

German Music as Holmes' Preference

Holmes' taste in music is further defined in some of his adventures. In The Red-Headed League, he specifically mentions that he prefers German music to French or Italian. This preference for German music is a recurring theme, and it is evident in his interest in a monograph about the polyphonic motets of the Dutch Renaissance composer Lassus, mentioned in The Adventure of the Bruce-Partington Plans.

Holmes and Classical Opera

Music plays a significant role in Holmes' adventures, often influencing his work and relaxation. Holmes was not just a listener; he was also a connoisseur of opera. In The Hound of the Baskervilles, Holmes makes a bold prediction by purchasing a box for the grand French opera Les Huguenots by Giacomo Meyerbeer, indicating his interest in both French and classical works. In The Adventure of the Red Circle, his enthusiasm for Wagner is evident when he comments on a Wagner night at Covent Garden, highlighting his love for German classical operas.

Composers and Performers: Holmes' Personal Favorites

While Holmes' enjoyment of various composers and performers is clear, no specific composer is ever identified as his favorite. However, his appreciation for specific genres and artists indicates an individual who has a discerning ear for classical music. For instance, his preference for German music, his interest in Lassus, and his purchase of a box for a Meyerbeer opera all speak to his refined musical tastes.

Was Sherlock Holmes a Violin Player?

A question that intrigues many fans is whether Holmes was actually any good at playing the violin. This is a subject of debate among Sherlockian enthusiasts. While there is no definitive evidence in the original stories to suggest that Holmes was a proficient violinist, some adaptations and fictional accounts have portrayed him as a skilled player. However, in the context of the original narratives, Holmes' musical inclinations are more about his appreciation and understanding of music rather than his playing ability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the musical preferences of Sherlock Holmes provide a rich addition to the character's image. From his appreciation of German music and his knowledge of composers like Lassus to his enjoyment of operas such as Les Huguenots, Holmes' love for classical music adds depth to his character, making him not only a brilliant detective but also a connoisseur of the arts.

Further Reading

If you are interested in exploring more about Sherlock Holmes and his love for music, you may want to read:

A Study in Scarlet (Chapter 8) The Red-Headed League (Chapter 5) The Adventure of the Bruce-Partington Plans (Chapter 1) The Hound of the Baskervilles (Chapter 20) The Adventure of the Red Circle (Chapter 3)