Classical Breakdown
WETA Classical
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
Mentioned books
Feb 9, 2021 • 40min
Dvorak's Symphony No. 9 "From the New World." The origins and inspirations you didn't know.
There is a lot you may not know about the origins, inspirations and influencers when it comes to this masterpiece by Dvorak. We get into the details and music with examples from the latest recording from the National Symphony Orchestra and Maestro Noseda.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan 26, 2021 • 31min
It's fun and it's virtuosic! Exploring Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 21
You might not know this concerto by its number, but you're surely familiar with one of its aria-like melodies that has appeared in film and popular music.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jan 12, 2021 • 30min
What does a Concertmaster really do? Concertmaster Nurit Bar-Josef of the NSO explains.
It's one of the most competitive positions in all of classical music. Learn more about the role of a concertmaster from Nurit Bar-Josef, Concertmaster of the National Symphony Orchestra. She plays her favorite concertmaster solosSupport Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec 29, 2020 • 30min
The life of Strauss Jr. aka "The Waltz King"
His music is celebrated today, especially around New Year's, and his waltzes are bound to put a smile on your face. Learn about Strauss Jr.'s life, his music, and a surprising answer he gave a New York reporter about his visit to Boston.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec 15, 2020 • 45min
The Nutcracker, how it became a holiday classic, and what to listen for
This holiday classic has helped define the "Christmas" sound for generations, but there's more to the music than you think.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dec 1, 2020 • 53min
Beethoven's Symphony No. 9
Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 was revolutionary, but if all you know is the "Ode to Joy" you are missing out! From it's opening notes to the final crescendo, join Bill Bukowski and John Banther for a musical deep dive into Beethoven's final symphony.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov 17, 2020 • 1h 2min
What is a string quartet?
Is it the ultimate test for a composer? Discover its origins and how this genre evolved over centuries with James Jacobs and John Banther.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nov 3, 2020 • 46min
Beethoven's triumphant Symphony No. 5
There's a lot about this masterpiece you may not know. Nicole LaCroix joins John Banther to explore its premiere and unique musical moments.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct 20, 2020 • 45min
The life of Tchaikovsky
From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the greatest composers, explore the life and music of Tchaikovsky.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Oct 6, 2020 • 41min
What is an Overture?
Is an Overture defined by the kind of music it contains or simply where it appears in a concert? The answer can change throughout history, and with musical examples, John and Nicole get into the details of this "bite-size music."Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
