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Beyond the Classics: 12 More “Sleigh Rides” For the Holidays
Explore the history of the popular holiday song 'Sleigh Ride', from its creation by Leroy Anderson in 1946 to various renditions by artists like Mozart, Delius, and Mahler.
The Ukrainian Folk Tune Behind “Carol of the Bells”
The Secret Story Behind Tchaikovsky’s Mysterious Celesta in “The Nutcracker”
Explore the history of the celesta, a unique instrument used in Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker and Harry Potter's theme. Discover how it went from obscurity to symphony staple.
The Lesser-Known History of “Jingle Bells”
Explore the history of the iconic Christmas song "Jingle Bells," from its creation by James Lord Pierpont in 1850 to its evolution and various renditions by famous artists over the years.
Chapman Challenge: The Story Behind Handel’s “Messiah”
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses Handel's journey with oratorios, from his first encounter in Italy to his profitable English oratorios, culminating in the creation of Messiah.
What Makes a Christmas Concerto a Christmas Concerto?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan explains that a Christmas concerto is a type of concerto grosso from the Baroque period, characterized by a Pastorale movement.
Celebrate the Holidays with Classical California
Holiday live, streaming and video programming.
The Holidays
A tribute to that special time of year.
Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Classical California
Five Influential Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Musicians and Composers
In recognition of AANHPI Heritage Month, Classical California celebrates the contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander musicians and composers. The AANHPI umbrella includes diverse traditions, identities, and ethnicities, including East Asian, South Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and many others.
The Favorite Eats of Classical Composers
Explore the culinary preferences of famous composers like Rossini, Mozart, Hildegard, Chopin, and Satie, and how food influenced their lives and works.
Virtuosity and Nostalgia: Teresa Carreño and Chopin
Explore the life and music of Teresa Carreño, a South American composer and pianist, and her significant influence from Frédéric Chopin.
Wendy Carlos: Synth Visionary
Explore the life of Wendy Carlos, a pioneer in electronic music, known for her work with the Moog synthesizer and her groundbreaking album, Switched-On Bach.
Fanny Mendelssohn Finally Gets Her Due
Fanny Mendelssohn's lost masterpiece, misattributed to her brother for 150 years, is finally recognized as hers, shedding light on her overlooked musical talent.
