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Classical Breakdown
Join host John Banther for Classical Breakdown, a new podcast from Classical WETA that takes audiences behind the music, making the classical music world understandable and accessible, leading to a deeper appreciation of all things classical. From in-depth conversations with local musicians and touring artists to observations and analysis of well-known compositions, Classical Breakdown aims to share the fascinating and entertaining aspects behind the artistry.
Got a question or comment about something you've heard, or an idea for a future episode? Let us know!
Recent Episodes
9. Handel's Messiah, from swords, hidden meanings, to theft!
December 3, 2019
Here's everything you wanted to know about Handel's Messiah but were afraid to ask.
8. What is a Symphonic Poem?
November 19, 2019
Discover one of the more colorful genres of classical music, the Symphonic Poem, which can depict animals, landscape, literature, and even football players!
7. Reading between the notes - making a score come alive
November 5, 2019
Liz demonstrates musical terms on the violin, we talk about bringing sheet music to life and a special guest joins for an experiment with foreign language.
6. The Abeo Quartet performs Moonshot
October 22, 2019
The Abeo Quartet performs Moonshot, a new work by Alistair Coleman. Alistair talks about the inspiration for this piece, and after the performance, we talk with the quartet about putting this piece together, new playing techniques, and space travel!
5. Kian Soltani, cellist, talks tempo, karate, and his debut album "Home"
October 8, 2019
Kian talks about bringing people together in music, changing tempos, karate, and more. He is one of today's most celebrated young cellists and has risen the ranks as one of today's great cello soloists. His collaboration with conductor Daniel Barenboim has taken him around the world, he's performed with some of the worlds greatest orchestras. and records for Deutsche Grammophon.
4. What is a Symphony?
September 24, 2019
The Symphony has been one of classical musics biggest genres. But, have you ever wondered what makes a symphony, a symphony? The origins take us back to the 17th century with symphonies that lasted only a few minutes, and we explore its development up to Beethoven's blockbuster Symphony No. 9.
3. The Four Seasons, how Vivaldi depicts the world in sound
September 10, 2019
Poetry, falling on the ice, and a barking dog, there is so much to hear and discover in Antonio Vivaldi’s masterpiece, The Four Seasons. In this episode, we get into the details and musical examples with a recording that brings a fresh perspective to this work published nearly 300 years ago.
2. Wu Han, pianist and cultural entrepreneur
September 10, 2019
She might be the busiest chamber musician in the United States. Wu Han is in charge of several music festivals worldwide, has an intense performing schedule, and manages a record label. In this episode, she tells us about her early musical inspirations in Taiwan, how tragedy led her to another career path, where chamber music is headed, and even how to fix wardrobe malfunctions with a stapler.
1. Alistair Coleman on writing music
September 10, 2019
Mozart and Beethoven were genius composers, but they wrote music very differently. Renowned young composer from Washington, Alistair Coleman, tells us what made Beethoven and Mozart different and describes his own music writing process.
0. Coming Soon
August 23, 2019
A glimpse at our first 3 episodes launching September 10.
