Classical Breakdown

Latest Episodes:

The Nutcracker, how it became a holiday classic, and what to listen for Dec 15, 2020

Show notes

This holiday classic has helped define the "Christmas" sound for generations, but there's more to the music than you think.

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Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 Dec 01, 2020

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Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 was revolutionary, but if all you know is the "Ode to Joy" you are missing out! From it's opening notes to the final crescendo, join Bill Bukowski and John Banther for a musical deep dive into Beethoven's final symphony.

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What is a string quartet? Nov 17, 2020

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Is it the ultimate test for a composer? Discover its origins and how this genre evolved over centuries with James Jacobs and John Banther.

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Beethoven's triumphant Symphony No. 5 Nov 03, 2020

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There's a lot about this masterpiece you may not know. Nicole LaCroix joins John Banther to explore its premiere and unique musical moments.

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The life of Tchaikovsky Oct 20, 2020

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From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the greatest composers, explore the life and music of Tchaikovsky.

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What is an Overture? Oct 06, 2020

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Is an Overture defined by the kind of music it contains or simply where it appears in a concert? The answer can change throughout history, and with musical examples, John and Nicole get into the details of this "bite-size music."

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Rimsky-Korsakov's enchanting Scheherazade Sep 22, 2020

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Discover the musical details and backstory of a work that's captivated listeners for over a century. John Banther and Linda Carducci discuss its origins and use their imagination to fill in the musical gaps.

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The life of Beethoven Sep 08, 2020

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Discover the life and works of one classical music's greatest composers! His life was full of groundbreaking music, but it was also tragic as he dealt with family problems and hearing loss. We explore the details of his life and listen to samples of his music, from his first composition to his final Symphony No. 9.

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Recommended summer listening Jun 30, 2020

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Expand your musical palate with music found in an attic in 2009, new interpretations of Beethoven and Franck, and an instrument you've probably never heard before.

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Lawrence Brownlee on equality in classical music Jun 16, 2020

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Brownlee talks about equality in classical music, his experience as a black man in the world of opera, and what we can do to encourage positive change towards a more diverse future in classical music.

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