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Chapman Challenge: The History of Handbells
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan explains the history of handbells, their transition from bell tower practice tools to melody instruments, and how melodies are divided among ringers in a handbell choir.
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: The Tuba
The Tuba on Saturday Morning Car Tunes!
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: The Trombone
Why Don’t Trombones Have Valves Like Trumpets?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan Chapman explains why trombones use slides instead of valves like trumpets, tracing back to their 15th-century ancestor, the sackbut.
Cabrillo Festival Ends with Marsalis Concert
The Cabrillo Festival concludes with two works by jazz composer Wynton Marsalis, including a violin concerto performed by Nicola Benedetti, who collaborated closely with Marsalis during its creation.
Don’t Underestimate the Tuba
Explore the depth and range of the tuba beyond its stereotype as an "oom-pah machine". This article highlights five orchestral pieces that showcase the tuba's versatility.
The French Horn
The French Horn is the gentle giant of the orchestra… a musical shapeshifter morphing into so many different characters and moods.
Classical Kick-Off for World Cup 2026
The World Cup is nearing its final whistle, and we're bidding farewell to each departing team with music from home.
How the 1812 Overture Became Music for the Fourth of July
Explore the history of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture's popularity in 4th of July celebrations, its association with fireworks, and its original context in this insightful blog.
A fond farewell from "Lueth in the Booth”
A fond farewell from San Francisco Classical California President, Bill Lueth.
The Sounds of Sunrise
Explore the beauty of sunrise through music with this list of compositions inspired by dawn, from Haydn's "Sunrise" Symphony to Ravel's "Daphnis and Chloe".
LA Philharmonic is Soaring with Daniel Harding
Conductor and commercial airline pilot Daniel Harding is announced as the 12th music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
A Hometown Tribute to Michael Tilson Thomas
This article celebrates the career of conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, highlighting his 25-year tenure with the San Francisco Symphony, his early years in LA, and his contributions to classical music.
