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The Ultimate 101

The Many Lives of the “The Flower Duet”

The Many Lives of the “The Flower Duet”

Explore the Flower Duet from Delibes' opera Lakme. Discover its use in TV, film, and creative remixes.

01/01/2026
The Secret Story Behind Tchaikovsky’s Mysterious Celesta in “The Nutcracker”

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
George Gershwin Captures the Sounds of Paris

George Gershwin Captures the Sounds of Paris

Explore the inspiration and creation of George Gershwin's symphonic poem, An American in Paris, its initial reception, and its enduring popularity in music and film.

12/08/2025
The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet

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.

11/22/2025
The Poetic Inspiration Behind Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “The Lark Ascending”

The Poetic Inspiration Behind Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “The Lark Ascending”

Explore the inspiration behind Ralph Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending, a violin piece based on an 1880s British poem. Discover why this music continues to captivate listeners.

11/17/2025
Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”

Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”

Explore the intriguing history of Edward Elgar's Enigma Variations, composed in 1898-99. Discover how this piece, inspired by Elgar's friends and personal experiences, established his fame.

11/15/2025
Mozart Hurls Thunderbolts From Jupiter

Mozart Hurls Thunderbolts From Jupiter

Explore Mozart's "Jupiter" Symphony, its origins, and how Bach's influence led to the masterpiece of counterpoint in its final movement.

09/19/2025

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Playlist for the Great Outdoors

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Nine tracks that go beyond walls, these Great Outdoors selections were chosen by the music programmers at Classical California.

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Classical Californians: Gabriela Ortiz

Classical Californians: Gabriela Ortiz

Six-time Grammy–winning composer Gabriela Ortiz joins Classical Californians to share the music and musicians that have shaped her artistic life.

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Five Influential Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Musicians and Composers

Five Influential Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Musicians and Composers

In recognition of AANHPI Heritage Month, Classical California celebrates the contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander musicians and composers. The AANHPI umbrella includes diverse traditions, identities, and ethnicities, including East Asian, South Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and many others.

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A Hometown Tribute to Michael Tilson Thomas

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
Classical Californians: Riot Games Composers Vol 1

Classical Californians: Riot Games Composers Vol 1

This week on Classical Californians, three of the composers behind the music at Riot Games: Bill Hemstapat, Alexander Temple, and J.D. Spears take the mic.

04/22/2026
Classical Californians: Andrew von Oeyen

Classical Californians: Andrew von Oeyen

This week on Classical Californians, Pianist and Californian native Andrew von Oeyen.

04/08/2026