Schedule
HostsWays to Give
HomePlaylistSchedule
HostsEventsOn DemandOur StoryOur TeamWays to Give Become a Sponsor
How to ListenVisit Help CenterContact Us

Find Us on Social Media:

Logo image

Find Us on Social Media:

Download Our Mobile App:

google play icon

About

HomePlaylistSchedule
HostsOn DemandOur StoryOur Team

Community

EventsWays to Give Become a SponsorPressDiversity StatementCareersAnnual EEO ReportDigital Accessibility

Help

How to ListenVisit Help CenterContact Us

©2025 Classical California

Sweepstakes RulesFCC ComplianceLocal Public FilesCPB ComplianceAnnual EEO ReportPrivacy PolicyCode of Integrity

articles / The Great Outdoors

5 Pieces Perfect For a Stroll in the Woods

The Great OutdoorsCultureNutcracker


There’s nothing quite like relaxing under the shade of a tall tree with a good book, hiking through a misty wooded park, or simply admiring some of the incredible forests California has to offer. Here are five classical pieces that are inspired by all the lovely trees and forests that have stayed with us throughout history.

Johann Strauss II: Waltz: Tales of Vienna Woods

This bold and lively piece was composed by Strauss in 1868 and is an ode to the folk music of the inhabitants of the Vienna Woods.

M. K. Čiurlionis: In the Forest

Čiurlionis started out as a composer and became a painter in his 30’s, creating a large body of over 300 works. “In the Forest” is a symphonic poem that portrays the beautiful forests in Lithuania, which is where the composer grew up.

Ottorino Respighi: “The Pines of Rome”

The Pines of Rome is divided into four movements and depicts the Italian capital’s distinguished umbrella pine trees in various locations around the city, at different times of the day.

Peter Tchaikovsky – The Forest of Fir Trees in Winter

The Forest of Fir Trees in Winter is a piece of classical music composed by Peter Tchaikovsky for The Nutcracker. Although this is a winter piece, it evokes a beautiful portrayal of a snowy forest that can be appreciated and enjoyed in any season!

Ralph Vaughan-Williams: The Linden Tree

My Orcha’d in Lindèn Lea was written by Dorset writer and poet William Barnes and the music is by Ralph Vaughan-Williams, one of the greatest British composers of the twentieth century. This piece celebrates pastoral beauty and depicts the harmony of humanity with nature. The words constantly refer to an apple tree in Linden Lea; it symbolizes more than just food, but a kind of spiritual nourishment that provides comfort to make listeners appreciate the simple beauty of their home.

The Great OutdoorsCultureNutcracker
Written by:
Elizabeth Lee
Elizabeth Lee
Published on 07.06.2023
Loading...

MORE LIKE THIS

Your Playlist for Hangin’ in the Hammock

Your Playlist for Hangin’ in the Hammock

Explore Rik Malone's recommended playlist for a perfect California summer experience. From relaxing hammock tunes to music that transports you to distant places, enjoy your summer with these iconic pieces.

07/08/2024
A Playlist for Lounging by the Pool

A Playlist for Lounging by the Pool

Explore Brian Lauritzen's poolside playlist featuring classical pieces like Ravel's Jeux d’eau, Strauss's Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka, and more, perfect for a sunny, relaxing day by the pool.

06/30/2023
An Opera Al Fresco Playlist for A Perfect Evening Under the Stars

An Opera Al Fresco Playlist for A Perfect Evening Under the Stars

Enjoy an enchanting evening under the stars with these operatic gems handpicked by Jennifer Miller Hammel. From Hoffmann's Barcarolle to Turandot's Nessun dorma, each piece sets a unique mood.

07/18/2022
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.

04/26/2020
5 Great Moments of Opera in the Great Outdoors

5 Great Moments of Opera in the Great Outdoors

Explore KUSC Great Outdoors Week with blogs on composers inspired by nature. Enjoy 5 operatic pieces reflecting the beauty of the outdoors, from Handel to Massenet.

04/24/2020
A Pioneer in the “Star Wars” Galaxy

A Pioneer in the “Star Wars” Galaxy

This article discusses the unique aspects of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," focusing on its standalone narrative, absence of Jedi, and Michael Giacchino's impactful score.

04/01/2019