RIHC: Famous Composers, Mozart’s Requiem, and Musical Riots

What does it feel like to conduct a live orchestra? How has music influenced politics? Did Igor Stravinsky’s music from the ballet, The Rite of Spring, really inspire a riot? Which composer famously practiced on a cardboard piano? What is it about Russian operas that make them so powerful? Was Beethoven an especially irascible man? Which musical compositions have famously remained unfinished, and what became of them? Does classical music need more controversy? And, what are the most important pieces of music in history? In this week’s bonus episode, Tom and Dominic are joined by renowned conductor and history lover Oliver Zeffman - the man who brought about and conducted their Royal Albert Show on Mozart and Beethoven in October 2024. Today, they discuss some of history’s greatest musical moments and characters. Also, their next live show on Wagner and Tchaikovsky at The Royal Albert Hall, on May 4th 2025.... _______ Twitter: @TheRestHistory @holland_tom @dcsandbrook Producer: Theo Young-Smith Assistant Producer: Tabby Syrett Executive Producers: Jack Davenport + Tony Pastor