The Classical Music Minute Steven Hobé, Composer & Host

DescriptionBach's Toccata and Fugue in D minor in 60 seconds. Take a minute to get the scoop!Fun FactJohann Sebastian Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D minor, BWV 565, was likely composed during his early career, possibly when he was in his late teens or early twenties. This period coincides with his time as a young organist in Arnstadt (1703-1707) or Mühlhausen (1707-1708).__________________________________________________________________About Steven, HostSteven is a Canadian composer & acto...

DescriptionThe Enchanting Creation of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata in 60 seconds. Take a minute to get the scoop!Fun FactBeethoven's "Moonlight Sonata," formally known as "Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor 'Quasi una fantasia,' Op. 27, No. 2," was not performed publicly during Beethoven's lifetime. It was composed in 1801 and published in 1802, dedicated to his pupil Countess Giulietta Guicciardi. The piece gained popularity posthumously through various performances and publications.______...

DescriptionHow The Blue Danube Cast Its Spell in 60 seconds. Take a minute to get the scoop!Fun Fact"The Blue Danube," composed by Johann Strauss II in 1866, was first performed in February 1867 in Vienna, Austria. Originally a choral work, it gained greater popularity as an orchestral piece and is now one of the most famous waltzes in classical music. Its debut took place at a concert of the Vienna Men's Choral Association.__________________________________________________________________Abo...

DescriptionLa Traviata in 60 seconds. Take a minute to get the scoop!Fun FactGiuseppe Verdi's "La Traviata" premiered on March 6, 1853, at the Teatro La Fenice in Venice. Initially, the opera faced a lukewarm reception due to its controversial subject matter. However, it quickly gained popularity and is now one of the most beloved and frequently performed operas worldwide for its poignant story and beautiful music.__________________________________________________________________About Steven,...

DescriptionLa clemenza di Tito in 60 seconds. Take a minute to get the scoop!Fun FactMozart's "La clemenza di Tito" premiered on September 6, 1791, at the Estates Theatre in Prague. Commissioned for the coronation festivities of Emperor Leopold II, it received a mixed reception but gained popularity in later years for its emotional depth and stirring arias, becoming a staple of the opera repertoire.__________________________________________________________________About Steven, HostSteven is a...

DescriptionHow did the Saxophone come to be? Take a minute to get the scoop!Fun Fact"Rhapsody for Saxophone" by Claude Debussy is one of the most iconic pieces for saxophone. Composed in 1919, it showcases the instrument's versatility and expressive range. With its lush melodies and rich harmonies, the piece captivates listeners with its romantic and evocative qualities. Debussy's masterful writing for the saxophone has solidified its place as a classic in the repertoire._____________________...