Classical Breakdown

Did a volcano erupt when he was born, what illness plagued his priesthood, and why did he write so many concertos? Join us to learn all about Vivaldi's life and appreciate the composer from a new angle. 

Brahms wrote for the orchestra late in life, and surprisingly little compared to the impact the resulting works made. John Banther and Evan Keely get into the details and share everything you need to know about this masterpiece by Brahms.

This work for choir and orchestra might become your new holiday favorite! Bonds' takes us on an evocative musical journey with more in the story than meets the eye. 

He's one of history's most famous composers, but how much do you really know about Handel? Join us to learn about his life, music, and desire for fame; plus 3 things about him you didn't know before!

This symphony takes its inspiration from the blues in the 1920s, which were much different than the blues we typically hear today. Join us to learn how Still uniquely brought different styles of music together, new instruments in the orchestra, and his motivation.  

Doctors at one time prescribed playing the saxophone for certain ailments?! Learn all about the saxophone's invention, development, and all the genres it's hopped to along the way.

You've never heard the horn played like this! Sarah Willis, horn virtuoso and member of the Berlin Philharmonic, takes us on a style-bending journey with her newest Mozart y Mambo album.

Coming to you from our email inbox, here's an episode of music requested by you the listener! These three works are iconic, but leave your preconceived notions at the door and prepare to hear them in a new way. Plus, we also do a little Q&A at the end of the show. 

Was he an impressionist, symbolist, or something else? John Banther and Evan Keely dive into the life and music of Debussy while giving you 4 points to hear his music in a whole new way.

Season 4 kicks off with one of the most beloved works in the orchestral repertoire. John Banther and Bill Bukowski talk about the theme's origins, melodies hidden in plain sight, moments to listen for, and what Rachmaninoff did to calm his nerves the night of the premiere!

Half the fun of music is finding something new, so why not use the summer to discover new classical favorites while you hit the road, the mountains, the beach, or wherever!

Enjoy a full recording of this concerto after Linda and John discuss its origin, Norwegian influences, and what to listen for.