Culture

Peach Melba and Melba Toast: The Story of a Chef and an Opera Diva

Explore the culinary legacy of French chef Auguste Escoffier, his work at grand hotels, and his unique dishes named after opera singer Nellie Melba.

02/05/2026

How Does One of the Most Famous Composers of the Late 1700s Just Disappear from History?

Explore the life of Joseph Bologne, the Chevalier de Saint-Georges, a prominent 18th-century musician, fencer, and revolutionary, whose legacy was nearly lost to history.

02/01/2026

The Many Lives of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony

01/25/2026

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.

12/30/2025

The Ukrainian Folk Tune Behind “Carol of the Bells”

12/29/2025

Beyond the Classics: 12 More “Sleigh Rides” For the Holidays

Explore the history of the popular holiday song 'Sleigh Ride', from its creation by Leroy Anderson in 1946 to various renditions by artists like Mozart, Delius, and Mahler.

12/18/2025

The Lesser-Known History of “Jingle Bells”

Explore the history of the iconic Christmas song "Jingle Bells," from its creation by James Lord Pierpont in 1850 to its evolution and various renditions by famous artists over the years.

12/17/2025

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Classical Californians: Jefferson Mays & Sam Clemmett

Tony Award-winner Jefferson Mays (I Am My Own Wife) and Sam Clemmett (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) from Pasadena Playhouse’s Amadeus join us as this week's Classical Californians!

02/11/2026

Open Ears: Eva Jessye and the Harlem Renaissance

This article explores the life of Eva Jessye, a key figure in American music and the Harlem Renaissance, who made significant contributions to civil rights and classical music.

02/08/2026

Crossings: 6 Pieces By Black Composers Whose Inspirations and Innovations Have Helped Define Our American Sound

Explore the rich history and contributions of Black composers in American music, from pioneers like Florence Price to contemporary artists like Kris Bowers and Jon Batiste.

02/07/2026

Classical Californians: Austin Wintory

This week on Classical Californians, Grammy‑nominated multi‑media composer Austin Wintory.

01/28/2026

Classical Californians: Nicholas Pike

Classical Californians welcomes Emmy award-winning composer and musician Nicholas Pike to share his Oscar nominated aria "Sweet Dreams of Joy" from the short documentary Viva Verdi!

01/12/2026

Classical Californians: Jon Batiste

This week on Classical Californians, Grammy- and Oscar-winning musician Jon Batiste guides us through the music that shaped his artistic journey.

01/07/2026

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