Classical Breakdown

Classical Breakdown WETA Classical

John Banther takes classical music fans behind the scenes with interviews, deep dives, and analysis. Episodes released bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Produced by WETA Classical in Washington, D.C.

Beschikbare afleveringen

  • Haydn's masterpiece for 4 soloists and orchestra, the Sinfonia Concertante

    We've come to know the concerto as a work showcasing a single soloist with (or sometimes against) an orchestra, but what if a work has not 1... but 4 soloists at the same time? And what if it is also bringing in ideas from the symphony?...

  • The Evolution of the Piano: A Thousand Year Journey!

    It's one of the most common musical instruments, but where did it come from and how did we get here? John Banther and Linda Carducci go on a journey through time to trace the evolution of the piano and its various forms. Plus, why is it...

  • Joan Tower's Concerto for Orchestra, an adventure in color, illusion, and rhythm!

    There aren't that many examples of a "concerto" for orchestra, and in Joan Tower's, it's an electrifying world of rhythm, motion, and even deception! John Banther and Evan Keely explore this concerto by one of the most successful and...

  • The secret life of a classical recording engineer: Meet WETA's Charles Lawson

    Have you ever wondered how to record an orchestra but were too afraid to ask? Critically acclaimed recording engineer Charles Lawson spends his days recording the National Symphony Orchestra at the John F. Kennedy Center for the...

  • The life and music of Antonin Dvořák; from humble beginnings to stardom!

    We'll enjoy his Symphony No. 9 "From the New World" at the end, but first we look at his influential and controversial time in the United States, itself a journey that began decades prior. Join us to learn how he was discovered, his...

  • 6 recommended works by living Black composers!

    We celebrate the music of living Black composers with 6 recommended works spanning violin and piano to the full orchestra! Go to the show notes page at classicalbreakdown.org for more information on these composers, links to recordings,...

  • Korngold's Violin Concerto, from the Golden Age of Hollywood!

    The sounds of Hollywood are found throughout this enduring concerto. John Banther and Evan Keely show you moments in the music to listen for, how Korngold does things differently, which movies ended up in this concerto, and discuss why...

  • Episode 100, let's celebrate!

    We have a full symphony by Mahler to listen to after we enjoy highlights from the past 99 episodes! Let's take time to experience again the musicians who demonstrated their instruments, fascinating insights from guests, and our favorite...

  • Jean Sibelius, how a composer became the voice of a nation!

    Few countries have elevated a composer like Finland and Jean Sibelius. John Banther and Evan Keely look into his breakout success, symphonies, dramatic life events, and how he incorporates Finnish culture into music. Plus, what do...

  • Augusta Holmès' Andromède; an epic Greek myth inspired symphonic poem!

    You may not recognize the composer or piece, but this is a work that deserves your attention! John Banther and Evan Keely explore the poem and how it comes to life in the music, which operatic composer she's invoking, and why sea...

  • Opera 101, everything you wanted to know but were afraid to ask!

    Feeling dramatic? Opera has you covered! John Banther and Linda Carducci go on a journey through time on the origins, evolution, and dramatic moments of this enduring musical art form. Plus, recommended listening for each time period...

  • Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet Overture: 3 themes and Shakespearean connections!

    It's one of the more familiar works in the repertoire, but how well do you know the 3 major themes and Shakespearean connections? John Banther and Shakespeare enthusiast James Jacobs show you what to listen for, how much Tchaikovsky...