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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.
A Jazzy Reunion at the Peninsula Symphony
"Reunion" concert by Peninsula Symphony features jazz greats David Benoit, Taylor Eigsti, and the Brubeck brothers, revisiting a historic event from 18 years ago.
A Jazzy Season Ender for New Century Chamber Orchestra
'American Masters' season finale features the New Century Chamber Orchestra and Marcus Roberts Trio. They'll perform works by Copland, Bernstein, Gershwin, and Barber, blending notated and improvised music.
Steinway No. 129281
Cole Porter's historic Steinway piano, used to create much of the American Songbook, is being restored. Once refurbished, it will be displayed at the New York Historical Society.
Jazz vs. Classical: Insights into the Way Our Brains Work
A study reveals jazz and classical pianists use their brains differently due to the improvisation and analysis demands of their styles, likened to different teaching methods.
Jazzy Classical
The first music style born right here in America—jazz—meets classical music!
Beethoven’s Quartet of ‘Thanksgiving’
Beethoven's String Quartet in A Minor, Op. 132, features a movement expressing gratitude for recovery from illness. It alternates between prayerful chorales and lively sections, reflecting his mortality.
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 Mystery Behind Scriabin’s Mystic Chord
Explore the life of Russian composer Alexander Scriabin, his obsession with the occult, and his creation of the "mystic chord" used in his compositions.
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.
A Playlist to Celebrate All Things Fall
Explore the beauty of autumn through music with this curated list of compositions inspired by the season's warm colors, chilly weather, and melancholic mood.
