Classical Breakdown

WETA Classical
undefined
Oct 31, 2023 • 40min

The inspiring life and music of Germaine Tailleferre: plus 5 recommended works!

She was a pioneering French composer who helped shape the sound of France's music post World War I, but she also faced extraordinary challenges. John Banther and Evan Keely explore her music, life events, give you 5 recommended works to listen to!Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
undefined
Oct 17, 2023 • 28min

The Nocturne, a journey from the 19th century to Daft Punk!

How easily can a genre of music be defined? John Banther and Linda Carducci explore the origins of the Nocturne and how it evolved from its simple defining characteristics over the next 200 years. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
undefined
Oct 3, 2023 • 36min

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

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!Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
undefined
Sep 19, 2023 • 45min

The short yet musically prolific life of Franz Schubert

Franz Schubert, a prolific composer with a tragic life, is discussed in this podcast. Topics include his gift for melody, efficiency with composing, arrest in Vienna, and the emotional journey depicted in his song cycle 'Deventariza, The Winter Journey'. The difficulties he faced in Vienna, his daily rituals, and his innovative use of two cellos in his cello quintet are also explored.
undefined
Sep 5, 2023 • 39min

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

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. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
undefined
Jun 27, 2023 • 25min

Summer Listening Guide: 4 albums to expand your musical horizons!

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. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
undefined
Jun 13, 2023 • 33min

Theme and Variations: 4 types and what to listen for!

Exploring the evolution of theme and variations in classical music, from Mozart to Bach and Beethoven. Discussing the significance of supporting commercial-free classical music programs like Classical Breakdown. Delving into the fusion of tradition and innovation in creating captivating musical pieces by Rachmaninoff, Pachevic, and John Williams.
undefined
May 30, 2023 • 1h 22min

The Illustrious Life and Music of Haydn: From hardship to stardom

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.
undefined
May 16, 2023 • 42min

Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor": Breaking expectations!

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.
undefined
May 2, 2023 • 1h 2min

In conversation with Maestro Gianandrea Noseda: His journey, perspectives on music, conducting, and more!

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.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app