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Tchaikovsky

How the 1812 Overture Became Music for the Fourth of July

How the 1812 Overture Became Music for the Fourth of July

Explore the history of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture's popularity in 4th of July celebrations, its association with fireworks, and its original context in this insightful blog.

09/15/2025
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.

12/23/2024
The Lesser-Known History of “Jingle Bells”

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.

12/17/2024
A Playlist to Celebrate All Things Fall

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.

11/27/2024
Love in the Shadows: Tchaikovsky's Censored Letters

Love in the Shadows: Tchaikovsky's Censored Letters

Many of Tchaikovsky's letters with and about male lovers were suppressed by Russian censors, as well as his family.

06/17/2024
What Do Kim Kardashian and Peter Tchaikovsky Have in Common?

What Do Kim Kardashian and Peter Tchaikovsky Have in Common?

Explore new video series on the Classical California YouTube Channel: 'In Times Like These' and 'Open Ears'. Discover under-recognized music and the blend of pop culture with classical music history.

05/10/2022
The Sugar Plum Fairy in the City of Angels

The Sugar Plum Fairy in the City of Angels

In 2013, Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil performed Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. The recording, recently released, is now KUSC's album of the week.

04/01/2019

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Pop CultureMusic HistoryChristmasHolidaysCulture

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Virtuosity and Nostalgia: Teresa Carreño and Chopin

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Explore the life and music of Teresa Carreño, a South American composer and pianist, and her significant influence from Frédéric Chopin.

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Explore the lives and works of ten influential female composers from Latin America, spanning various genres and periods, from opera to electronic music.

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Explore the rich heritage of Hispanic music through these 10 influential composers, from Teresa Carreño to Gabriela Ortiz.

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Finding Beauty in Historical Ruins

Finding Beauty in Historical Ruins

Explore how ancient ruins inspire classical music, from Felix's Scottish Symphony inspired by Holyrood Palace to Zipoli's works found in decaying South American churches.

09/27/2025
The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet

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.

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