Classical Breakdown

Latest Episode

He was a composer who seemed to fit some of the "tragic artist" stereotypes of the Romantic period, he was prolific, had unrequited love, and died tragically young. John Banther and James Jacobs explore Schubert's life, his unrivaled gift for melody, efficiency with composing, his arrest, and more!

Show Notes

Episodes

Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2: a musical comeback story!

Episode 91 September 5, 2023

Unforgettable melodies, rich harmonies, and technical fireworks encompass this concerto which is also one of the great musical comeback stories! Join us to learn what to listen for as we examine the music, personal letters, and even a recording of the composer himself at the piano.
- Show Notes
Summer Listening Guide: 4 albums to expand your musical horizons!

Episode 90 June 27, 2023

Discover new favorites as John Banther showcases 4 recent releases that deserve your attention this summer! Go to the show notes page at ClassicalBreakdown.org to find out where you can listen to or purchase these albums.
- Show Notes
Theme and Variations: 4 types and what to listen for!

Episode 89 June 13, 2023

It might be one of the oldest ideas in all of music (of any kind!), but, how did it develop in our Western classical music tradition? John and Evan explore what makes a theme and variations, 4 specific types to listen for, and a modern example using a theme you wouldn't expect!
- Show Notes
The Illustrious Life and Music of Haydn: From hardship to stardom

Episode 88 May 30, 2023

Enjoy a performance of one of Haydn's iconic concertos at the end of the episode! We talk about Haydn's hardship to stardom life, and why he ended up writing all kinds of music, from symphonies, and concertos, to music for clocks.
- Show Notes
Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor": Breaking expectations!

Episode 87 May 16, 2023

We unravel the secrets and beauty of Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor," hailed as a masterpiece in the piano concerto repertoire. We explore the complexities of the music, the unusual circumstances behind its creation, and what to listen for!
- Show Notes
In conversation with Maestro Gianandrea Noseda: His journey, perspectives on music, conducting, and more!

Episode 86 May 2, 2023

This charismatic Italian has become one of the most sought-after conductors for both orchestras and opera houses. John Banther and Gianandrea Noseda discuss early musical experiences, preparing familiar works, the importance of recordings, ways to relax, and much more!
- Show Notes
Mahler's Symphony No. 1: A rewarding symphonic journey!

Episode 85 April 18, 2023

One of the more original first symphonies from a composer, Gustav Mahler's entry into the symphonic world was initially misunderstood. John Banther and Evan Keely break down what made this symphony different, what to listen for, and why the journey is worth the test of patience!
- Show Notes
Fantasia: Music from the realm of imagination!

Episode 84 April 4, 2023

Go on a journey through time with us as we explore a genre of music called the Fantasia! John Banther and Evan Keely discuss how the genre started, evolved, and captured our hearts and imaginations for centuries.
- Show Notes
The life and music of Cecile Chaminade: Genius has no gender

Episode 83 March 21, 2023

She persisted and created her own success in defiance of the sexism faced at home and abroad. We explore her life, works you need to hear, and even hear a 122-year-old recording of Chaminade herself!
- Show Notes
Women in Music: 6 works by 6 composers you should know

Episode 82 March 7, 2023

We explore in detail 6 works by 6 different living composers for a variety of instruments like solo cello, a string quartet, a piano concerto, and more! Visit the show notes page for more information on these composers and resources to find more.
- Show Notes
Ravel's Piano Concerto for Left Hand: A masterpiece of musical illusions and creativity!

Episode 81 February 21, 2023

There are a lot of questions and considerations when it comes to writing a piano concerto for a single hand. John Banther and Evan Keely explore the origins of this masterpiece and all the ways in which Ravel makes it sound larger than its parts.
- Show Notes
Joseph Bologne, the most interesting 18th century composer?

Episode 80 February 7, 2023

If there was a "most interesting man in the world" it would be Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. He wasn't just a virtuoso violinist, composer, and conductor, he was also one of Europe's greatest fencers, and a military man who led a legion in the French Revolution.
- Show Notes