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Nutcracker

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The Secret Story Behind Tchaikovsky’s Mysterious Celesta in “The Nutcracker”

Explore the history of the celesta, a unique instrument used in Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker and Harry Potter's theme. Discover how it went from obscurity to symphony staple.

12/29/2025
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5 Pieces Perfect For a Stroll in the Woods

Explore five classical music pieces inspired by nature's beauty, from Strauss's ode to Vienna Woods to Vaughan-Williams's celebration of pastoral harmony in The Linden Tree.

07/06/2023
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San Francisco Ballet’s Hometown ‘Nutcracker’

San Francisco Ballet revives the Nutcracker, set in the city itself, under the direction of Helgi Tomasson. The classic ballet runs through the 29th, celebrating a 75-year tradition.

12/17/2019
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Our Comprehensive SoCal Guide to Seeing Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker”

Discover the best Nutcracker ballet performances in Southern California this Christmas season. From Los Angeles to Orange County, find dates, costs, and venues.

12/11/2019
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One More Trip to the Bob Baker Marionette Theater

The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, a 55-year-old institution, is set to close after Thanksgiving. However, the puppet shows will continue at a new, yet-to-be-named location.

04/01/2019
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How 9 Year-Old LA Dancers Manage to Sell Out the “Nutcracker”

Explore the unique charm of Westside Ballet's Nutcracker, the longest-running in LA, featuring live music and a range of performers from young students to professionals.

04/01/2019

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ChristmasPop CultureTchaikovskyMusic HistoryArts Alive Blog

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A fond farewell from San Francisco Classical California President, Bill Lueth.

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The Sounds of Sunrise

Explore the beauty of sunrise through music with this list of compositions inspired by dawn, from Haydn's "Sunrise" Symphony to Ravel's "Daphnis and Chloe".

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LA Philharmonic is Soaring with Daniel Harding

Conductor and commercial airline pilot Daniel Harding is announced as the 12th music director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

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A Hometown Tribute to Michael Tilson Thomas

This article celebrates the career of conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, highlighting his 25-year tenure with the San Francisco Symphony, his early years in LA, and his contributions to classical music.

04/23/2026
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Celebrating Gustavo!

Classical California's Brian Lauritzen reflects on Gustavo Dudamel's career at the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

04/07/2026
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Virtuosity and Nostalgia: Teresa Carreño and Chopin

Explore the life and music of Teresa Carreño, a South American composer and pianist, and her significant influence from Frédéric Chopin.

03/13/2026