6 episodes
Decomposed with Jade Simmons American Public Media
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- Music
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4.8 • 1.4K Ratings
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Decomposed breaks down the stories that have shaped classical music, from secrets and scandals to acts of sheer genius. Hear these stories accompanied by the symphonies, operas and other masterpieces they inspired. Hosted by Jade Simmons, a classical concert pianist and storyteller, the first season of Decomposed takes on gender expectations, Cold War propaganda and the danger of putting your personal life on the stage. Produced in partnership with Classical Minnesota Public Radio.
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“A fallen, abominable, wicked girl”
Clara Schumann was a child prodigy turned international sensation — when she never should have been on stage at all. This is the story of a woman who was born to play, and refused to stop.
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Oil, meet fire
Richard Strauss and his wife Pauline de Ahna are often described as artist and muse. But you’ve never met a muse like Pauline. One of Strauss’ greatest musical masterpieces was ripped straight from the most scandalous moment of their marriage.
For a complete list of the music in this episode, as well as recommended reading, visit decomposedshow.org -
“Why did you betray me?”
This is the story of two letters Tchaikovsky received in the mail. One would lead to his greatest mistake; the other to the most intimate relationship of his life.
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Symphony for a starving city
Making music under Stalin was a dangerous undertaking — it could end with applause or in a prison camp. In the brutal grip of World War II, Shostakovich composed a symphony so powerful, it was smuggled halfway around the world in order to be played.
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“There is only one Beethoven”
Everybody knows the Beethoven story: He’s a brilliant composer who faced hearing loss; a genius who couldn’t listen to his own masterpieces. But there’s a different way to consider the story we think we know.
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Introducing Decomposed with Jade Simmons
Coming April 16, Decomposed breaks down the stories that have shaped classical music. Hosted by pianist Jade Simmons, this new podcast will change the way you hear the notes.
Customer Reviews
Thank you for doing such an awesome job
Dear Jade
Thank you so much for your podcasts. It is such a blessing bringing me to the time as if I am living during that music era. My father loved to study music but his dream was never accomplished because his father had passed away when he was 10. But when my father was alive he always listened to classical music and listening to your podcasts brings me to the memories of my father. I wish my beloved father had listened to your podcast. They are a true blessing. Thank you for your love and appreciation of classical music. My father listened to Andre Rieu a lot towards his last days.
God Bless You
Fascinating new favorite
Soothing and stimulating at the same time this podcast is so refreshing. I just started piano lessons at 40 and learning about the lives of famous classical composers I’m learning to play feels so approachable. Jade Simmons has an expert but inviting way of telling these stories. I love it!
More episodes please!
I absolutely love this podcast and wish there were more episodes! Every episode is expertly researched and the storytelling is captivating. Please make more episodes!