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The Salem witch hunt that occurred in the late 17th century still captivates and fascinates people to this day. One notable figure who has been associated with the Salem witch trials is actress Winona Ryder, who played the lead role in the film adaptation of Arthur Miller's play, "The Crucible." The connection between Winona Ryder and the Salem witch trials is not merely a coincidence, as the actress herself has expressed a personal connection to the events that unfolded in the small Massachusetts town in 1692. In the film "The Crucible," Winona Ryder portrays the character of Abigail Williams, one of the girls who accuses innocent people of witchcraft. The character of Abigail is known for her manipulative nature and ability to influence those around her. Through her performance, Ryder brings this complex character to life, highlighting the hysteria and fear that gripped the community during the witch trials.

Through her performance, Ryder brings this complex character to life, highlighting the hysteria and fear that gripped the community during the witch trials. This role resonated deeply with the actress, who has stated that she sees a parallel between the mass hysteria of the witch trials and the events of her own life. Winona Ryder's personal connection to the Salem witch trials goes beyond her role in "The Crucible.

Sparky’s Magic Piano and the ‘Rachmaninov Challenge’

When I was growing up in early 80s, there was a radio show for kids in New Zealand on Sunday mornings. I remember they started around 7am and they lasted a few hours. Most of the recordings were recycled British and American radio drama from the 50s and 60s but they had great atmosphere and production values – remember that this was from a time when radio actually meant something. My very favourite story was Sparky’s Magic Piano, with Spike Milligan’s Bad Jelly the Witch coming in a close second.

Sparky was a little boy who discovered his piano was magic. It played any piece he asked it to, fooling his teacher into thinking he was the greatest pianist of all time. He toured the most famous concert halls in the world, delighting his audiences with his skill and expertise until….he woke up. The music was great; a seriously good selection including Chopin, Liszt, Beethoven and Rimsky-Korsakov…..but one piece, Rachmaninov’s Prelude in C sharp minor, Opus 3 number 2, was my favourite. Powerful and menacing, this is music that makes your spine tingle.

I remembered the piece yesterday, listened to it and decided upon a challenge for myself – the Rachmaninov challenge! I have just ordered the sheet music:

Now I should say here that I’m not a ‘Rachmaninov’ type of pianist’. I’m more of a ‘play-a-few-chords and-then-some-melodic-lines-by-ear’ type of pianist. This is basically out of my league. I do have a few things going for me though: 1. The piece starts slowly with big spacious chords 2. The piece ends slowly with big spacious chords 3. I don’t mind practicing 4. I don’t have to perform in a concert hall when I am finished.

The challenge with this piece really starts about 2:02, with the serious roadblock appearing at 2:35. Watch the performance below to see what I mean, but also just enjoy this work as a masterpiece of romantic period piano.

So there’s the Rachmaninov challenge. I’ll post updates here. Wish me luck!

Why not have a listen to Sparky’s magic piano while you’re here. It’s a treat.

" In a 2016 interview with New York magazine, Ryder revealed that she is a descendant of one of the accused women, named Elizabeth "Bess" Towne. This revelation came as a surprise to Ryder, who discovered her connection to the witch trials while researching her family history. The knowledge of her ancestor's involvement in such a dark chapter of American history had a profound impact on the actress. Ryder's connection to the Salem witch trials raises intriguing questions about the impact of history on individual lives. She has spoken about how her understanding of her ancestor's experience deepened her appreciation for the importance of justice and standing up against unjust accusations. Through her portrayal of Abigail Williams and her personal connection to the witch trials, Winona Ryder has become a symbol of the enduring legacy of the Salem witch hunts. Her performance in "The Crucible" serves as a reminder of the dangers of mass hysteria and the importance of seeking the truth, even in the face of fear and ignorance..

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