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Classical California Ultimate Playlist

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
Host Highlights: Classical California Ultimate Playlist Countdown Live

Host Highlights: Classical California Ultimate Playlist Countdown Live

Classical California Ultimate Playlist Live Countdown

09/24/2024
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.

09/21/2024
The ABC’s of Opera: Puccini’s “La bohème”

The ABC’s of Opera: Puccini’s “La bohème”

Explore the timeless themes of love, optimism, and dreams in Puccini's La Bohème. Learn about its history, characters, and its influence on modern productions like Rent.

09/18/2024
10 Scary-Good Performances of Bach’s Toccata and Fugue

10 Scary-Good Performances of Bach’s Toccata and Fugue

Explore the Classical California Ultimate Playlist's blog series, featuring awe-inspiring performances of Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D minor on various instruments, from organ to glass harp.

09/16/2024
How Brahms Captured the Rowdiness of Youth in His Graduation Anthem

How Brahms Captured the Rowdiness of Youth in His Graduation Anthem

Explore the story behind Johannes Brahms' Academic Festival Overture, a unique composition inspired by student drinking songs, created as a thank you for his honorary doctorate from the University of Breslau.

09/09/2024
The Classical California Ultimate Playlist Goes to the Arcade!

The Classical California Ultimate Playlist Goes to the Arcade!

Explore the top video game scores of 2022, from classics like The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy to newer entries like Skyrim and Fallout 4. Discover the music that shapes your gaming experience.

01/10/2023

RELATED TOPICS

Music HistoryPop CultureEssentialsBachPlaylist

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Classical Californians: Vincent Womack | Tune in Wednesday at 7pm!

Classical Californians: Vincent Womack | Tune in Wednesday at 7pm!

Meet Vincent Womack, the music director at Foshay Learning Center, was also the on-screen conductor in the movie The Last Repair Shop.

05/19/2025
Five Influential Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Musicians and Composers

Five Influential Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Musicians and Composers

In recognition of AANHPI Heritage Month, Classical California celebrates the contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander musicians and composers. The AANHPI umbrella includes diverse traditions, identities, and ethnicities, including East Asian, South Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and many others.

05/01/2025
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.

04/26/2025
The Real (House)wives of Classical Music: The Women Behind Bach, Schumann and Mahler

The Real (House)wives of Classical Music: The Women Behind Bach, Schumann and Mahler

The wives of J.S. Bach, Robert Schumann, and Gustav Mahler were talented musicians, long unacknowledged.

03/30/2025
Open Ears: Eva Jessye and the Harlem Renaissance

Open Ears: Eva Jessye and the Harlem Renaissance

This article explores the life of Eva Jessye, a key figure in American music and the Harlem Renaissance, who made significant contributions to civil rights and classical music.

03/26/2025
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.

03/08/2025