Rick has used this particular music in a number of episodes, mostly when visiting medieval era towns or castles in Europe, especially in Italy. It’s a simple tune with a drum and what sounds like a bassoon and then a flute/penny whistle sound chimes in on the next “verse”. I just love it but I have no idea how to find out what it is and if there’s a larger library that it came from. Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Posted by
1855 posts
I think you are going to have to do some "sleuthing" here. Check the credits of the episode or contact RS company directly. The music could very well have been composed specifically for the show and not available otherwise.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
32700 posts
I remembered a Rick Steves staffer responding to a similar question a few years back.
In fact it was in 2014.
If you look at this thread
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/tv-episodes/name-of-music-playing-during-rick-s-visit-to-mad-king-ludwig-s-castle
the first answer is from the RS staffer, Abe. Odds are that that answer is still valid.
I hope you're successful
Posted by
OP
3 posts
Thank you for your help. The various episodes list APM (American Public Media) music library as their music credits. The only other credits are for the 2 people responsible for the composition and performance of the theme music. Searching the APM library is like looking for a needle in a haystack!
Posted by
OP
3 posts
I will check that episode to see if it is the same tune. I’m reading references to Wagner and Brahams in the comments as possible composers in that episode however. Since the music I’m looking for sounds like early Middle Ages, I think we may be talking about 2 different pieces. Thank you for your input though!
Posted by
1855 posts
Can you post the specific RS show or a YouTube link? I am married to a classical musician who may be able to quickly pin it down for you.
Posted by
Boise, ID, USA
2169 posts
Another classical musician who is curious and hopes you’ll post a specific episode for us...