Classical Breakdown

What is a cello? Star cellist Amit Peled tells all!

Elgar's Enigma Variations, a portrait of friends, life, and love!

Robert Schumann's Carnaval: A solo piano brings a masked ball to life!

The Life of Nadia Boulanger: A Lasting Impact from Bernstein to Sesame Street

Haydn's masterpiece for 4 soloists and orchestra, the Sinfonia Concertante

The Evolution of the Piano: A Thousand Year Journey!

Joan Tower's Concerto for Orchestra, an adventure in color, illusion, and rhythm!

The secret life of a classical recording engineer: Meet WETA's Charles Lawson

The life and music of Antonin Dvořák; from humble beginnings to stardom!

This podcast episode delves into the early life and career of Antonin Dvorak, exploring his humble beginnings, his musical education and influences, his struggles for recognition, and his rise to international success. It discusses the impact of Johannes Brahms' support on Dvorak's career, his invitation to head the Na...

6 recommended works by living Black composers!

Korngold's Violin Concerto, from the Golden Age of Hollywood!

Episode 100, let's celebrate!

Jean Sibelius, how a composer became the voice of a nation!

Augusta Holmès' Andromède; an epic Greek myth inspired symphonic poem!

Opera 101, everything you wanted to know but were afraid to ask!

Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture: 3 themes and Shakespearean connections!

The inspiring life and music of Germaine Tailleferre: plus 5 recommended works!

The Nocturne, a journey from the 19th century to Daft Punk!

Respighi's The Pines of Rome: a picturesque tour of Rome!

The short yet musically prolific life of Franz Schubert