Classical Breakdown

John Banther takes classical music fans behind the scenes with interviews, deep dives, and analysis. Episodes released bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Produced by WETA Classical in Washington, D.C.

Episodes

  • 6 recommended works by living Black composers!

    6 recommended works by living Black composers!

    Episode 102 February 6, 2024

    We celebrate the music of living Black composers with 6 recommended works spanning violin and piano to the full orchestra! Go to the show notes page at classicalbreakdown.org for more information on these composers, links to recordings, and links to resources.
  • Korngold's Violin Concerto, from the Golden Age of Hollywood!

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

    Episode 101 January 23, 2024

    The sounds of Hollywood are found throughout this enduring concerto. John Banther and Evan Keely show you moments in the music to listen for, how Korngold does things differently, which movies ended up in this concerto, and discuss why this concerto has remained so popular!
  • Episode 100, let's celebrate!

    Episode 100, let's celebrate!

    Episode 100 January 9, 2024

    We have a full symphony by Mahler to listen to after we enjoy highlights from the past 99 episodes! Let's take time to experience again the musicians who demonstrated their instruments, fascinating insights from guests, and our favorite moments from over the years. 
  • Jean Sibelius, how a composer became the voice of a nation!

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

    Episode 99 December 26, 2023

    Few countries have elevated a composer like Finland and Jean Sibelius. John Banther and Evan Keely look into his breakout success, symphonies, dramatic life events, and how he incorporates Finnish culture into music. Plus, what do Sibelius, Gilmore Girls, and Lord of The Rings have in common?
  • Respighi's The Pines of Rome: a picturesque tour of Rome!

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

    Episode 93 October 3, 2023

    Respighi is our tour guide as we explore 4 different scenes in Rome inspired by their iconic Stone pine trees. John Banther and Evan Keely explore his cutting-edge use of technology, how he uses ancient musical references, how he achieves some of these unique timbres, and more!
  • The short yet musically prolific life of Franz Schubert

    The short yet musically prolific life of Franz Schubert

    Episode 92 September 19, 2023

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

    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.