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.
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An audiobook narrator who just can't focus on the job in hand. His digressions take him further and further off-piste. Now including the complete and unabridged The Lost World by Arthur Conan Doyle. Personally, I wouldn't recommend it. And now we're engaged in a tug of war between Chapters of Dracula by Bram Stoker and 1984 by George Orwell. gregwagland.substack.com
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We break down and discuss weekly world of warcraft news, hot topics and current events in Classic WoW & The Burning Crusade Classic.
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The Life and Music of Gioachino Rossini: An overnight success, foodie, and opera sensation
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Few composers were an overnight sensation like Gioachino Rossini! We have 3 musical characteristics of his to show you as we explore his life, travels, his love of food, and why he might have quit at the height of his fame at age 37. Plus, stay with us to the end for the Rossini cocktail! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See o…
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Beethoven’s iconic Violin Concerto: what to listen for and why it was an initial flop!
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Why was the premiere a failure, and how did it get back into the repertoire? John Banther and Evan Keely uncover unique characteristics in this concerto, what to listen for, and its beguiling opening! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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The horn: Everything you need to know from Mozart, Mahler, to the movie screen!
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One of the oldest instruments and one of the most beloved has to be the horn! Chandra Cervantes, one of the most in-demand horn players in the DC area, tells all about its development and use in music, plus, she plays for us some iconic music on the horn. You can find videos and recordings of her playing on the show notes page at classicalbreakdown…
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The lives and music of Silvestre Revueltas and Gabriela Lena Frank
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We explore two influential composers in this episode that you need to know; Silvestre Revueltas and Gabriela Lena Frank. John Banther and Evan Keely highlight works from both composers, aspects of their lives, and what to listen for in their music! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform…
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From government intrigue, untimely death, or even distraction, there are many reasons why a composer might leave a work unfinished. John Banther and Linda Carducci dive into 5 unfinished works, how they are performed today, look at the surrounding circumstances, and discuss what we could have done to get these works completed in the first place! Su…
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Bruckner's Symphony No. 4 "Romantic"; a monumental masterpiece!
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We hear a full performance of this iconic symphony at the end of the episode. John and Evan break down everything you need to know, the "Bruckner problem," and show you what to listen for! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.بقلم WETA Classical
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Recommended listening; 4 new albums to listen to this summer!
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Can you believe it that summer is already here? This is the final episode of Season 5 and I have 4 recently released albums you need to listen to wherever the summer takes you! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.بقلم WETA Classical
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What is a cello? Star cellist Amit Peled tells all!
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Who doesn't love the cello? But, where and when was it invented, and how did it evolve over the centuries? Amit Peled, cello soloist and professor at Peabody, tells us everything and performs music by Bach and Bloch! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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Elgar's Enigma Variations, a portrait of friends, life, and love!
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We enjoy a full performance of the Enigma Variations at the end of the episode, but first, we get into the people and places depicted in colorful detail in Elgar's masterpiece. John Banther and Evan Keely uncover hidden clues in the music, the types of people Elgar depicts, and what the Enigma could possibly be (but isn't). Support Classical Breakd…
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Robert Schumann's Carnaval: A solo piano brings a masked ball to life!
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Real and fictional characters come to life in this incredibly challenging work for piano that also includes musical puzzles. John Banther and Linda Carducci explore all the characters and how Schumann depicts them in music, the ciphers, discarded movements, and more. plus we enjoy a full performance of it by Sergei Rachmaninoff! Support Classical B…
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The Life of Nadia Boulanger: A Lasting Impact from Bernstein to Sesame Street
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She might have been the most influential person in music of the 20th century, and few would argue with you. John Banther and Evan Keely explore her life, music, and incalculable influence, but also some of the criticism her legacy has faced in the 45 years since her passing. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/…
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Haydn's masterpiece for 4 soloists and orchestra, the Sinfonia Concertante
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We've come to know the concerto as a work showcasing a single soloist with (or sometimes against) an orchestra, but what if a work has not 1... but 4 soloists at the same time? And what if it is also bringing in ideas from the symphony? John Banther and Evan Keely take a look at one of the defining works in the genre, show you what to listen for, a…
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The Evolution of the Piano: A Thousand Year Journey!
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It's one of the most common musical instruments, but where did it come from and how did we get here? John Banther and Linda Carducci go on a journey through time to trace the evolution of the piano and its various forms. Plus, why is it so fun to see pianos fall from high places?? Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudi…
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Joan Tower's Concerto for Orchestra, an adventure in color, illusion, and rhythm!
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There aren't that many examples of a "concerto" for orchestra, and in Joan Tower's, it's an electrifying world of rhythm, motion, and even deception! John Banther and Evan Keely explore this concerto by one of the most successful and recorded American composers. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for …
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The secret life of a classical recording engineer: Meet WETA's Charles Lawson
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Have you ever wondered how to record an orchestra but were too afraid to ask? Critically acclaimed recording engineer Charles Lawson spends his days recording the National Symphony Orchestra at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. He tells us how it all comes together, philosophy, and near disasters! Support Classical Breakdown: http…
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The life and music of Antonin Dvořák; from humble beginnings to stardom!
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We'll enjoy his Symphony No. 9 "From the New World" at the end, but first we look at his influential and controversial time in the United States, itself a journey that began decades prior. Join us to learn how he was discovered, his musical styles, and some pretty funny stories! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.…
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6 recommended works by living Black composers!
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We celebrate the music of living Black composers with 6 recommended works spanning violin and piano to the full orchestra! Go to the show notes page at classicalbreakdown.org for more information on these composers, links to recordings, and links to resources. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for pr…
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Korngold's Violin Concerto, from the Golden Age of Hollywood!
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The sounds of Hollywood are found throughout this enduring concerto. John Banther and Evan Keely show you moments in the music to listen for, how Korngold does things differently, which movies ended up in this concerto, and discuss why this concerto has remained so popular! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/l…
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We have a full symphony by Mahler to listen to after we enjoy highlights from the past 99 episodes! Let's take time to experience again the musicians who demonstrated their instruments, fascinating insights from guests, and our favorite moments from over the years. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener f…
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Jean Sibelius, how a composer became the voice of a nation!
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Few countries have elevated a composer like Finland and Jean Sibelius. John Banther and Evan Keely look into his breakout success, symphonies, dramatic life events, and how he incorporates Finnish culture into music. Plus, what do Sibelius, Gilmore Girls, and Lord of The Rings have in common? Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm S…
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Augusta Holmès' Andromède; an epic Greek myth inspired symphonic poem!
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You may not recognize the composer or piece, but this is a work that deserves your attention! John Banther and Evan Keely explore the poem and how it comes to life in the music, which operatic composer she's invoking, and why sea monsters have such short musical motifs. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/liste…
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Opera 101, everything you wanted to know but were afraid to ask!
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Feeling dramatic? Opera has you covered! John Banther and Linda Carducci go on a journey through time on the origins, evolution, and dramatic moments of this enduring musical art form. Plus, recommended listening for each time period along the way. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform…
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Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture: 3 themes and Shakespearean connections!
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It's one of the more familiar works in the repertoire, but how well do you know the 3 major themes and Shakespearean connections? John Banther and Shakespeare enthusiast James Jacobs show you what to listen for, how much Tchaikovsky loved Shakespeare, theatrical elements in the music, and more! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm…
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The inspiring life and music of Germaine Tailleferre: plus 5 recommended works!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informa…
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The Nocturne, a journey from the 19th century to Daft Punk!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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Respighi's The Pines of Rome: a picturesque tour of Rome!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.c…
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The short yet musically prolific life of Franz Schubert
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He was a composer who seemed to fit some of the "tragic artist" stereotypes of the Romantic period, he was prolific, had unrequited love, and died tragically young. John Banther and James Jacobs explore Schubert's life, his unrivaled gift for melody, efficiency with composing, his arrest, and more! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/dona…
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Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2: a musical comeback story!
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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/donatefm See omnystud…
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Chapter 11: A Goblin Teasmade weaponised
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit gregwagland.substack.comبقلم Greg's Classic Breakdown!
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So here is another portion of Dracula read with a singular lack of preparation or skill. As I say, it’s an acquired taste. Members of my own family don’t listen to it, so let that stand as some sort of warning to you. It’s recorded not on a wax cylinder but using the less than stellar (Stella!!!!) headset mic by audio technica which purports to hav…
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Dracula: Chapter 10 - Vamp till ready.
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Why do bats suddenly appear Every time you are near? Poor old Lucy! Always wanting to leave the windows open and somewhat averse to the garlic baguette that Van Helsing brandishes before her pallid fizzog. She’s arguably, in the words of 1950s magistrates, asking for it, fang-wise. But she’s certainly a fighter and submits to her arduous toilet twi…
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Once again we return to the land of Bram Stoker. I was tinkering with the Audio Technica headset mic., as if you wanted to know that and then was playing with the Studio One software which is less than user friendly imo. Trying to make a stack or plugin chain that tamed the whole thing. It’s noisy and a bit echoey, and NOT my usual studio or equipm…
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Dracula pushing boldly towards Chapter 10
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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit gregwagland.substack.comبقلم Greg's Classic Breakdown!
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Summer Listening Guide: 4 albums to expand your musical horizons!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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Theme and Variations: 4 types and what to listen for!
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It might be one of the oldest ideas in all of music (of any kind!), but, how did it develop in our Western classical music tradition? John and Evan explore what makes a theme and variations, 4 specific types to listen for, and a modern example using a theme you wouldn't expect! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.c…
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The Illustrious Life and Music of Haydn: From hardship to stardom
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor": Breaking expectations!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inf…
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In conversation with Maestro Gianandrea Noseda: His journey, perspectives on music, conducting, and more!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listen…
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Mahler's Symphony No. 1: A rewarding symphonic journey!
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One of the more original first symphonies from a composer, Gustav Mahler's entry into the symphonic world was initially misunderstood. John Banther and Evan Keely break down what made this symphony different, what to listen for, and why the journey is worth the test of patience! Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.…
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Fantasia: Music from the realm of imagination!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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The life and music of Cecile Chaminade: Genius has no gender
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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Women in Music: 6 works by 6 composers you should know
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat…
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Ravel's Piano Concerto for Left Hand: A masterpiece of musical illusions and creativity!
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informat…
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The Valentine's Day Massacre of Chapter 8 (into 9) Dracula
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Well, look: I was in a comfy chair and that's perhaps why this episode is a little lacklustre. There is literally nothing to recommend it. Perhaps making Seward a bit more estuary is enjoyable for me, but makes little sense. You can't really imagine the Westenras having him over to shoot or hunt, but who knows? Lucy does sound like she plays the fi…
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Greetings All. We continue in our halting attempt to drag ourselves through Bram Stoker's classic work and we've got to the section where Lucy Westenra is getting a little bit anaemic. Who knows why? And Wilhelmina Murray berates herself for using a big safety pin near Lucy's neck. Safety pins can be dangerous! So, we press on! And as Spring ushers…
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Joseph Bologne, the most interesting 18th century composer?
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com…
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Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 6 "Pathetique": A symphony of unanswerable questions
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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/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inform…
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Chapter 7 Part 2 The Captain's Log and Sundry Other Stuff
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We're on the high seas on board the ill omened Demeter. There are some funny boxes below decks with some rather innocent contents (according to Turkish Customs) and lots of disappearances at night. The crew is made up of Russians and Roumanians. The Captain has lashed himself to Tenille and there's something a bit rum about the rum. Recorded with t…
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Antonio Vivaldi's life, music, and the women who shaped his career
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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. Support Classical Breakdown: https://weta.org/donatefm See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
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Well, Happy New Year 2023! Apparently and this is according to the stats, (so we're all fully on board with their likely veracity, aren't we?), I am now followed by a dozen regular listeners. Fair dinkum. I didn't get into this podcast game for popularity: I was only ever motivated by narcissism. However, we push on because of reasons. I don't like…
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