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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.
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: Johann Sebastian Bach, Pt. III
Hakuna matata, here's a Bach cantata! Tune in this week to learn more about the most important form of Baroque vocal music (outside opera and oratorio).
Celebrating Gustavo!
Classical California's Brian Lauritzen reflects on Gustavo Dudamel's career at the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: Johann Sebastian Bach, Pt. II
What do Weird Al and Johann Sebastian have in common? This week, parody is the best way to look Bach to the future!
Virtuosity and Nostalgia: Teresa Carreño and Chopin
Explore the life and music of Teresa Carreño, a South American composer and pianist, and her significant influence from Frédéric Chopin.
The World’s Top 5 Classical Music Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List
Explore the rich musical history of Vienna, Salzburg, Milan, Leipzig, and London. Discover iconic venues, museums, and homes of legendary composers in these classical music cities.
Fanny Mendelssohn Finally Gets Her Due
Fanny Mendelssohn's lost masterpiece, misattributed to her brother for 150 years, is finally recognized as hers, shedding light on her overlooked musical talent.
