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Christmas

Beyond the Classics: 12 More “Sleigh Rides” For the Holidays

Beyond the Classics: 12 More “Sleigh Rides” For the Holidays

Explore the history of the popular holiday song 'Sleigh Ride', from its creation by Leroy Anderson in 1946 to various renditions by artists like Mozart, Delius, and Mahler.

12/25/2024
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 Ukrainian Folk Tune Behind “Carol of the Bells”

The Ukrainian Folk Tune Behind “Carol of the Bells”

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
Chapman Challenge: The Story Behind Handel’s “Messiah”

Chapman Challenge: The Story Behind Handel’s “Messiah”

In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses Handel's journey with oratorios, from his first encounter in Italy to his profitable English oratorios, culminating in the creation of Messiah.

12/16/2024
What Makes a Christmas Concerto a Christmas Concerto?

What Makes a Christmas Concerto a Christmas Concerto?

In this Chapman Challenge, Alan explains that a Christmas concerto is a type of concerto grosso from the Baroque period, characterized by a Pastorale movement.

12/13/2024
Celebrate the Holidays with Classical California

Celebrate the Holidays with Classical California

Holiday live, streaming and video programming.

12/13/2024

Shows

The Holidays image

The Holidays

A tribute to that special time of year.

The Holidays image

The Holidays

A tribute to that special time of year.

RELATED TOPICS

CultureTchaikovskyPop CultureNutcrackerArts Alive Blog

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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.

10/14/2025
10 More Composers With Latin American Roots You Should Know

10 More Composers With Latin American Roots You Should Know

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

10/10/2025
10 Composers From Across Latin America We’re Celebrating This Month!

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.

10/01/2025
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.

09/19/2025
Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”

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.

09/17/2025