Find Us on Social Media
America in the Bardo
What does America sound like?
Coming Soon: "Classical Americana" Season 2
What’s the defining sound of American classical music? What people, stories, sights and sounds throughout American history built our unique classical tradition, and where does it go from here? On Classical Americana, iconoclastic pianist Lara Downes drives you down the highways and byways of American music, with roadside discoveries and detours to the crossroads where musical traditions merge and transform. Tune in each Saturday 5PM-6PM.
Classical Americana
From jazz to bluegrass, from gospel to rock and roll - America has created so many kinds of music. Today we're taking a musical road trip across the country, starting with one of the most important American songs ever written.
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.
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.
How Classical, Jazz, and Mexican Musical Traditions Come Together in an Innovative New Opera
Join Classical California host and Resident Artist Lara Downes for a conversation wtih composer Paola Prestini and vocalist and composer Magos Herrera.
10 Composers From Across Latin America We’re Celebrating This Month!
Explore the rich heritage of Hispanic music through these 10 influential composers, from Teresa Carreño to Gabriela Ortiz.
Classical Californians: Shawna Lucey
This week's Classical Californian is Shawna Lucey, an opera director and the General Director and CEO of Opera San José.
An Opera Al Fresco Playlist for A Perfect Evening Under the Stars
Enjoy an enchanting evening under the stars with these operatic gems handpicked by Jennifer Miller Hammel. From Hoffmann's Barcarolle to Turandot's Nessun dorma, each piece sets a unique mood.