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Music History

Peter Mattei as Lincoln and Everett Sobers as Willie Lincoln in Missy Mazzoli's "Lincoln in the Bardo."

America in the Bardo

What does America sound like?

11/02/2026
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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.

10/29/2026
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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.

10/14/2026
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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.

09/18/2026
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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.

06/30/2026
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Women Who Made (Musical) History

Celebrating Women's History Month with a look at influential women in classical music, from Hildegard Von Bingen to Dr. Lucy Jones, who broke barriers and made history.

03/07/2026
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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.

02/18/2026

Shows

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The Symphony

A symphony is like an enormous musical mural that wraps all the way around you. Each instrument plays its own colors and patterns until they all create something magnificent together.

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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.

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The Violin

Whether a particular violin is worth a fortune or not, its true value isn't in its price tag—it's in the way the violin whispers, soars, and tell stories that stir our souls.

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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.

10/29/2026
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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.

10/26/2026
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A DIY Spooky Film Festival for Classical Fans

Explore 10 iconic horror films known for their classical music scores, including Jaws, Psycho, and The Shining. Discover where to stream or rent these spine-chilling classics.

10/23/2026
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WATCH | The Secret Behind the Spooky Sounds in Horror Movies

Discover the role of sound in horror movies and explore the spookiest musical instruments ever. Confront your fears and learn more on our new YouTube channel.

10/22/2026
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The Haunted Halls and Theaters of California

Explore the eerie side of U.S. music venues, from LA's Avalon Hollywood to SF's Curran Theatre, known for their haunted histories and chilling paranormal activities.

10/20/2026
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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.

09/30/2026