Chances are, you have never eaten a delicious sandwich and thought “Wow this reminds me of Mozart!” Most people probably wouldn't, unless you happen to listen to classical music while enjoying lunch.
A delicious sandwich has balanced layers of meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments, right? Well, classical music is just the same - a combination of harmonies, melodies, rhythms, and dynamics that create a satisfying experience. Just as you can be adventurous in the kitchen, using whatever toppings you desire, creating tasteful music in classical composition involves just as much creative expression and interpretation!
BLT
Bacon, lettuce, tomato. What other trio works this well in a sandwich? Due to their ease of preparation and few ingredients, BLTs became a staple in the United States after World War II. Who knew they would become one of the most popular sandwiches in the country? In Kansas City, at least, they’re frequently ordered at The Peanut.
The so-called “big three” of classical music, Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart, are some of the forefronts of their genre. In the spirit of powerful trios, Mozart’s Piano Trio in G major, K564 works just as well as a BLT. This piece is light with delicate harmonies flowing throughout all three movements, from the steady allegro to the festive allegretto. All of the instruments balance each other with Mozart’s simplicity, much like the ingredients of a BLT.
Bánh mì
A classic Vietnamese sandwich, bánh mì are the product of rich culture and tradition. Although there are several regional variations, these sandwiches often include meat and vegetables (frequently pickled) piled inside a French baguette. People enjoy bánh mì all around the world, but here in Kansas City, Bun Mee Phan makes some of the best.
The flavors and textures in Banh Mis are unique, yet balanced. Johannes Brahms’ Hungarian Dance No. 1 in G Minor is also filled with a vibrant culture through the syncopations and dynamic contrasts found in Hungarian folk songs. Alive with the motions of dancing, Brahms takes you on a journey through a colorful tradition. While eating a bánh mì, you are sure to taste a flavor explosion and a similar, delicious connection to heritage.
Croque Monsieur/Madame
Want to eat something a bit more sophisticated? The French Croque Monsieur and Madame are staples of timeless delicacies. They originated in cafés as quick snacks alongside the country’s love for cheese and bread, but quickly rose to popularity in elegant homemade dinners. Akin to the United States’ Monte Crisco, The Croque Monsieur is a simple hot ham and cheese sandwich often made with Béchamel sauce. The Madame includes a poached or fried egg on top. At Kansas City’s French Market, these sandwiches are elegantly delicious.
The appeal of Gabriel Fauré's "Sicilienne," Op. 78 lies in its graceful delivery and elegant harmonies. Reflecting Sicily’s traditional Siciliana form, this composition opens with a dreamy cello theme supported by piano. The language between the two instruments flows with sophistication, creating a certain serenity together. The Croques, although simple in preparation, have an effortless chic nature that Fauré’s "Sicilienne" encapsulates beautifully.
Po’ Boy
If you’ve ever been to New Orleans, chances are that you’ve eaten a Po’ Boy. If not, Mudbug Cajun Po’ Boys in Kansas City replicates the authentic flair of these sandwiches just as well. The Po' Boy originated during a streetcar strike in New Orleans when locals would offer free sandwiches to the “poor boys” on strike. This sandwich blends French, Creole, and Southern culinary traditions, made with New Orleans-style French bread, meat (often seafood), and hearty fillings.
As a celebration of their city’s community, Po’ Boys are similar to one of John Philip Sousa’s most well-known marches, “The Thunderer”. Patriotic and commanding, this march follows a traditional form, with a lyrical trio sandwiched between an otherwise vigorous tempo. The balance of Southern ingredients inside French bread works similarly to create a wonderful experience. New Orleans is a city rich in culture, so one should celebrate their Po’ Boy with this exuberant American classic. Here in Kansas City, Mudbug Cajun Po' Boys is the place for this sandwich!
Panini
If paninis weren’t celebrated enough during this National Sandwich Month, August also happens to be National Panini Month. The term “panini” comes from the Italian word “panino,” meaning little bread roll. They are typically made with ciabatta or focaccia bread, topped with various ingredients, and then pressed and grilled. The warmth from the sandwich can easily translate into comfort, and that’s probably why they’re so widely enjoyed. In Kansas City at least, the paninis are to-die-for at Bay Boy.
If you’re looking for something to warm you up, the fourth movement of Georges Bizet’s Carmen Suite No. 1, titled “Les Dragons d’Alcalá,” has just the beat. Aimed at capturing the soldiers readying up for battle in the relative opera, "Carmen," this piece has an animated and dance-like melody. “Les Dragons d’Alcalá” is colored with a blend of various instrumental timbres. You’d see a similar picture inside a panini with its many layers of ingredients and crispy exterior!
Grilled Cheese
Nothing is as simple and nostalgic as a grilled cheese sandwich. Traditionally toasted and loaded with melty cheeses, these sandwiches can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, they are most often associated with childhood and home-cooked meals. Grilled cheeses are versatile - they’re easy to make, and you can customize them however you’d like! But The Westside Local does them right with white cheddar, Emmentaler, and brie cheeses.
A simple yet popular and comforting piece of music that best emulates a grilled cheese sandwich is Erik Satie’s "Gymnopédie No. 1." The first of Satie’s three Gymnopedies is one of the most well-known pieces of piano repertoire. It often appears in media to induce nostalgia or tranquility through its calm melodies. "Gymnopédie No. 1" invites introspection in its audience, just as a simple grilled cheese makes you reminisce on your favorite childhood memories.
