80 episodes
Classical Breakdown WETA Classical
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- Music
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4.7 • 105 Ratings
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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.
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Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 6 "Pathetique": A symphony of unanswerable questions
No matter how many times you've heard this work, there is much to discover! John Banther and Evan Keely examine letters from his final year, musical examples, and fascinating compositional techniques in search of answers to this enigmatic symphony.
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Antonio Vivaldi's life, music, and the women who shaped his career
Did a volcano erupt when he was born, what illness plagued his priesthood, and why did he write so many concertos? Join us to learn all about Vivaldi's life and appreciate the composer from a new angle.
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Brahms' Haydn Variations: Don't judge a theme by its composer!
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A holiday gem: Margaret Bonds' The Ballad of the Brown King
This work for choir and orchestra might become your new holiday favorite! Bonds' takes us on an evocative musical journey with more in the story than meets the eye.
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George Frideric Handel: life of fame, musical style, and 3 things you didn't know before!
He's one of history's most famous composers, but how much do you really know about Handel? Join us to learn about his life, music, and desire for fame; plus 3 things about him you didn't know before!
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WG Still's Afro-American Symphony: Blues idioms, new instruments, and a uniquely American style
This symphony takes its inspiration from the blues in the 1920s, which were much different than the blues we typically hear today. Join us to learn how Still uniquely brought different styles of music together, new instruments in the orchestra, and his motivation.
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Customer Reviews
Tchaikovsky’s 6th symphony
Excellent analysis of this symphony. I especially enjoyed hearing the letters he wrote to friends and family members, which deepened my appreciation of this wonderful piece!
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Love it!
Margaret Bonds Holiday piece
I had never heard of this till today. I enjoyed learning about the piece, why she may have written it the way she did. I will find this work of hers and listen to it. Thank you John for always opening my eyes to new thoughts and music.