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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.
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: American Instruments
A look at some instruments that were born in America, as we approach July 4
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: The Celesta
Today, the celestially-inspired keyboard instrument called the Celesta
A Whirlwind Tour Through the Woodwinds
Explore the unique characteristics and roles of wind instruments in an orchestra, including the practice of musicians doubling on different instruments.
Get to Know the Quintessential Underdog of the Orchestra: The Viola
Explore the unique role of the viola in orchestral music, often overlooked but crucial in connecting melodies. Discover five standout viola moments in orchestral literature.
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.
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 Celesta
Let's dig into some seriously mysterious music.
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.
A Closer Look at Music Inspired by Rain
Explore music inspired by rain, from Chopin's Raindrop Prelude to Ryuichi Sakamoto's Oscar-winning Rain. Discover how various instruments, including piano and cello, evoke rainfall.
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.
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.
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: Teresa Carreño
Nicknamed the "Valkyrie of the Piano," she performed for two American presidents, composed over 70 works, and even sang opera. This week, the unerasable Teresa Carreño.
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.
Saturday Morning Car Tunes: José Pablo Moncayo
¡Bienvenidos, cuates! Welcome to Mexico and the "Aztec Renaissance." One of Mexico's greatest composers, José Pablo Moncayo captured his country in music, from sonatas and symphonies to a ballet, a film score, and an opera. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with music that'll make you want to dance.
