Classical Breakdown

We wrap up Season 2 of Classical Breakdown with some recommended recordings for you to explore this summer. These recently released albums feature a diverse range of composers, styles, ensembles, and even world premiere recordings. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The viola is somewhat of an enigma and from a distance can be hard to tell apart from the violin. Daniel Foster explains how composers used the viola over the centuries, what his role as Principal Viola entails, and plays for us some extraordinary parts written for the viola. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

He's considered one of the greatest composers of the 19th century. But can you hum a tune by Brahms? We dive into the life and music of Brahms to better understand what set him apart from others, how his personality affected his music, and how he still appears in popular music and commercials today. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Where did the concerto come from and how did it evolve? We explore its origins, development through Haydn and Mozart, some of the most challenging concertos of the 19th century, and a couple of "hidden gems."Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This masterpiece, originally for piano, was inspired by the tragic loss of a friend, and Ravel's orchestration is a work of art in itself. While roughly half of the original pictures have been lost, we do have descriptions of the originals that give insight to Mussorgsky's music and Ravel's orchestration.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How does a bassoon make a sound and what is its purpose? Principal Bassoonist of the National Symphony Orchestra Sue Heineman doesn't just tell us; she also plays her favorite moments and discusses how it all fits together in the orchestra.  Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is so much to discover about this masterpiece, like its collaborative and ballet origins, Copland's inventive use of an unknown folk tune, and even how it got its name. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Jacobs, a contributor to Classical WETA, dives into the life of Johann Sebastian Bach, once overlooked, now heralded as a musical giant. He explores how a teenage admirer helped revive Bach's influence and shares captivating tales, including Bach's quirky stint in jail. Jacobs discusses Bach's evolution, the emotional depth of his compositions, and how his music transformed through various roles. He even humorously speculates on how aliens might perceive Bach's genius through the Voyager record. A delightful mix of history and music awaits!

Dr. Karen Walwyn discusses the life and music of Florence Price, the first woman African American composer to have a symphony played by a major orchestra in the United States.Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefmSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.