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George Gershwin Captures the Sounds of Paris
Explore the inspiration and creation of George Gershwin's symphonic poem, An American in Paris, its initial reception, and its enduring popularity in music and film.
Erik Satie’s Gymnopédies: A Composer Ahead of His Time
Explore the life of Erik Satie, an influential yet overlooked French composer, known for his eccentric lifestyle and pioneering minimalist music, rediscovered in the 1960s.
The Classical Music You Heard at the 2024 Olympic Opening Ceremony
The 2024 Paris Olympics got off to a spectacular start with the Opening Ceremony, featuring the sights and sounds of French national treasures, from the Seine and the Eiffel Tower to the country’s rich heritage of classical music. Here are some of the selections played during the Opening Ceremony.
“An Entirely New World of Sound…”
Pianist Hershey Felder returns to TheatreWorks Silicon Valley with 'A Paris Love Story', exploring the music and life of composer Claude Debussy.
The Many Lives of the “The Flower Duet”
Explore the Flower Duet from Delibes' opera Lakme. Discover its use in TV, film, and creative remixes.
The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet
Explore the history of Appalachian Spring, a ballet commissioned by Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge, composed by Aaron Copland, and choreographed by Martha Graham.
The Poetic Inspiration Behind Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “The Lark Ascending”
Explore the inspiration behind Ralph Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending, a violin piece based on an 1880s British poem. Discover why this music continues to captivate listeners.
Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”
Explore the intriguing history of Edward Elgar's Enigma Variations, composed in 1898-99. Discover how this piece, inspired by Elgar's friends and personal experiences, established his fame.
Mozart Hurls Thunderbolts From Jupiter
Explore Mozart's "Jupiter" Symphony, its origins, and how Bach's influence led to the masterpiece of counterpoint in its final movement.
Around the World with Bach’s Cello Suites
"Yo-Yo Ma's global tour, showcasing Bach's Cello Suites, aims to unite communities through music. The tour, interrupted by Covid-19, also highlights the cultural expressions of 36 countries."