On a college campus, it is unlikely to find the classical works of Beethoven being blared through a car stereo or from a headset. Chopin is probably not the topic of conversation over lunch and this is rather unfortunate. Even though these works have been continually played over centuries, our generation seems to have pushed them aside and replaced them with rock, rap, and pop. Is it the weeping music that draws us away? Maybe the lack of words disinterests us - but then again, if you just had the words from a modern song, wouldn't it be considered poetry, another classic genre we are frequently afraid of? Though we are always open to accepting new things, it is important to preserve what we already have. Would we even have music today if not for these classical pieces???

On October 13, at the University Center Ballroom, some of the most famous classical music pieces were played by a group called Trio Solisti. Violinist Maria Bachmann, cello player Alexis Pia Gerlach, and pianist Jon Klibonoff played works from German composers Haydn, Brahms, and Mendelssohn. The group has performed in 23 countries and has collaborated to play with Yo-Yo Ma. An Academy Award Nominated director, Josh Aronson, made a video that traced the group's rehearsals and performances that is now out on DVD.

Their performance was nearly flawless. The bows of the cello and violin glided back and forth through the air, and the piano chords set the background. After a while, it all just seemed so surreal. It seemed so natural compared to the strum of an electric guitar. There was nothing else to do except watch and think, letting your mind speed up or slow down to the tempo of the music. Classical music isn't boring, it is anything but that. It is what we still have left to keep us down to earth and always thinking. I may still wake up tomorrow and listen to my rock, but the next time I hear classical music, it will be staying on a little bit longer.

Trio Solisti will be returning to Adelphi University on November 17 and March 3. The November performance will feature great American composers and the work of Adelphi's own Professor Paul Moravec. In March, musical favorites will be featured on the program.