Find Us on Social Media
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.
Chapman Challenge: The Story Behind Handel’s “Messiah”
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses Handel's journey with oratorios, from his first encounter in Italy to his profitable English oratorios, culminating in the creation of Messiah.
Did Anybody Ever Finish Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses attempts to complete Schubert's Unfinished Symphony, including a 1928 competition that ultimately awarded an original symphony.
What Makes a Christmas Concerto a Christmas Concerto?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan explains that a Christmas concerto is a type of concerto grosso from the Baroque period, characterized by a Pastorale movement.
Chapman Challenge: What’s the Spookiest Instrument?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses the spookiest instruments in honor of Halloween, highlighting the eerie sounds of the theremin and the scary potential of violins.
Chapman Challenge: What Exactly Are Köchel Numbers?
This article explains Köchel numbers, a catalog system for Mozart's works created by Ludwig von Köchel in the 19th century, and its significance in musicology.
How Do You Loan a Stradivarius?
Explore how rare Stradivarius violins, often owned by foundations or wealthy individuals, are loaned to musicians through intermediaries like the Stradivari Society of Chicago.
America in the Bardo
What does America sound like?
The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet
Explore the history of Appalachian Spring, a ballet commissioned by Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge, composed by Aaron Copland, and choreographed by Martha Graham.
How Brahms Captured the Rowdiness of Youth in His Graduation Anthem
Explore the story behind Johannes Brahms' Academic Festival Overture, a unique composition inspired by student drinking songs, created as a thank you for his honorary doctorate from the University of Breslau.
Trippy Tales in Classical Music
Explore the connection between altered states of consciousness and music composition, featuring works by Berlioz, Hildegard of Bingen, and Schumann.
An Obsessive Love that Mirrored Life
Explore the dramatic tale of Hector Berlioz's Symphonie fantastique, an autobiographical piece reflecting his obsessive love for actress Harriet Smithson and his descent into madness.
10 More Composers With Latin American Roots You Should Know
Explore the lives and works of ten influential female composers from Latin America, spanning various genres and periods, from opera to electronic music.
