Classical Breakdown

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. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Evan Keely, a classical music expert from WETA Classical, joins to unravel the complexities of Mahler's Symphony No. 1. They discuss its transformation from a misunderstood work to a celebrated masterpiece, emphasizing the importance of patience in appreciating its intricacies. Listeners learn about the lost 'Blumini' movement and the symphony’s rustic influences. Keely highlights Mahler's innovative orchestration, theatricality, and emotional depth, making a compelling case for why this symphonic journey is truly rewarding.

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.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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!Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No matter how many times you've heard this work, there is much to discover! John Banther and Evan Keely examine letters from his final year, musical examples, and fascinating compositional techniques in search of answers to this enigmatic symphony. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.