Classical Breakdown

Latest Episodes:

Rachmaninoff's Piano Concerto No. 2: a musical comeback story! Sep 05, 2023

Show notes

Unforgettable melodies, rich harmonies, and technical fireworks encompass this concerto which is also one of the great musical comeback stories! Join us to learn what to listen for as we examine the music, personal letters, and even a recording of the composer himself at the piano.

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Summer Listening Guide: 4 albums to expand your musical horizons! Jun 27, 2023

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Discover new favorites as John Banther showcases 4 recent releases that deserve your attention this summer! Go to the show notes page at ClassicalBreakdown.org to find out where you can listen to or purchase these albums.

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Theme and Variations: 4 types and what to listen for! Jun 13, 2023

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It might be one of the oldest ideas in all of music (of any kind!), but, how did it develop in our Western classical music tradition? John and Evan explore what makes a theme and variations, 4 specific types to listen for, and a modern example using a theme you wouldn't expect!

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The Illustrious Life and Music of Haydn: From hardship to stardom May 30, 2023

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Enjoy a performance of one of Haydn's iconic concertos at the end of the episode! We talk about Haydn's hardship to stardom life, and why he ended up writing all kinds of music, from symphonies, and concertos, to music for clocks.

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Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor": Breaking expectations! May 16, 2023

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We unravel the secrets and beauty of Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 5 "Emperor," hailed as a masterpiece in the piano concerto repertoire. We explore the complexities of the music, the unusual circumstances behind its creation, and what to listen for!

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In conversation with Maestro Gianandrea Noseda: His journey, perspectives on music, conducting, and more! May 02, 2023

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This charismatic Italian has become one of the most sought-after conductors for both orchestras and opera houses. John Banther and Gianandrea Noseda discuss early musical experiences, preparing familiar works, the importance of recordings, ways to relax, and much more!

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Mahler's Symphony No. 1: A rewarding symphonic journey! Apr 18, 2023

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One of the more original first symphonies from a composer, Gustav Mahler's entry into the symphonic world was initially misunderstood. John Banther and Evan Keely break down what made this symphony different, what to listen for, and why the journey is worth the test of patience!

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Fantasia: Music from the realm of imagination! Apr 04, 2023

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Go on a journey through time with us as we explore a genre of music called the Fantasia! John Banther and Evan Keely discuss how the genre started, evolved, and captured our hearts and imaginations for centuries.

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The life and music of Cecile Chaminade: Genius has no gender Mar 21, 2023

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She persisted and created her own success in defiance of the sexism faced at home and abroad. We explore her life, works you need to hear, and even hear a 122-year-old recording of Chaminade herself!

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Women in Music: 6 works by 6 composers you should know Mar 07, 2023

Show notes

We explore in detail 6 works by 6 different living composers for a variety of instruments like solo cello, a string quartet, a piano concerto, and more! Visit the show notes page for more information on these composers and resources to find more.

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