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Nutcracker

The Secret Story Behind Tchaikovsky’s Mysterious Celesta in “The Nutcracker”

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.

12/29/2025
5 Pieces Perfect For a Stroll in the Woods

5 Pieces Perfect For a Stroll in the Woods

Explore five classical music pieces inspired by nature's beauty, from Strauss's ode to Vienna Woods to Vaughan-Williams's celebration of pastoral harmony in The Linden Tree.

07/06/2023
San Francisco Ballet’s Hometown ‘Nutcracker’

San Francisco Ballet’s Hometown ‘Nutcracker’

San Francisco Ballet revives the Nutcracker, set in the city itself, under the direction of Helgi Tomasson. The classic ballet runs through the 29th, celebrating a 75-year tradition.

12/17/2019
Our Comprehensive SoCal Guide to Seeing Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker”

Our Comprehensive SoCal Guide to Seeing Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker”

Discover the best Nutcracker ballet performances in Southern California this Christmas season. From Los Angeles to Orange County, find dates, costs, and venues.

12/11/2019

RELATED TOPICS

ChristmasPop CultureTchaikovskyMusic HistoryThe Ultimate 101

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Virtuosity and Nostalgia: Teresa Carreño and Chopin

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.

03/13/2026
The World’s Top 5 Classical Music Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

The World’s Top 5 Classical Music Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

Explore the rich musical history of Vienna, Salzburg, Milan, Leipzig, and London. Discover iconic venues, museums, and homes of legendary composers in these classical music cities.

03/12/2026
Fanny Mendelssohn Finally Gets Her Due

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.

03/08/2026
Women Who Made (Musical) History

Women Who Made (Musical) History

Celebrating Women's History Month with a look at influential women in classical music, from Hildegard Von Bingen to Dr. Lucy Jones, who broke barriers and made history.

03/07/2026
At the Movies: Alexandre Desplat's Frankenstein Score

At the Movies: Alexandre Desplat's Frankenstein Score

Composer Alexandre Desplat, speaks with Brian Lauritzen about his Oscar nominated work on 'Frankenstein'.

02/21/2026
How Does One of the Most Famous Composers of the Late 1700s Just Disappear from History?

How Does One of the Most Famous Composers of the Late 1700s Just Disappear from History?

Explore the life of Joseph Bologne, the Chevalier de Saint-Georges, a prominent 18th-century musician, fencer, and revolutionary, whose legacy was nearly lost to history.

02/18/2026