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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Natasha Paremski’s ‘Pictures’ and ‘Tchaikovsky Variations’
Pianist Natasha Paremski discusses her latest album on the Steinway & Sons label, featuring Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition and Fred Hersch’s Variations on a Theme by Tchaikovsky.
10 Composers From Across Latin America We’re Celebrating This Month!
Explore the rich heritage of Hispanic music through these 10 influential composers, from Teresa Carreño to Gabriela Ortiz.
An Obsessive Love that Mirrored Life
Explore the dramatic tale of Hector Berlioz's Symphonie fantastique, an autobiographical piece reflecting his obsessive love for actress Harriet Smithson and his descent into madness.
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.
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.
Bolero, Obsession, and the Brain
"Unraveling Bolero" artist Anne Adams and composer Maurice Ravel's shared experience with progressive aphasia is explored at a San Francisco symposium on arts and brain science.
Alexander Borodin Goes to Broadway
Explore how Borodin's Polovtsian Dances from Prince Igor made Broadway history in Kismet, winning multiple Tony Awards, including a posthumous one for Borodin.
