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How Does One of the Most Famous Composers of the Late 1700s Just Disappear from History?
Explore the life of Joseph Bologne, the Chevalier de Saint-Georges, a prominent 18th-century musician, fencer, and revolutionary, whose legacy was nearly lost to history.
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.
A Deep Dive into Beethoven's Beloved Symphony No. 9
Brian Lauritzen dives deep into Beethoven's timeless 9th Symphony
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.
Did Anybody Ever Finish Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses attempts to complete Schubert's Unfinished Symphony, including a 1928 competition that ultimately awarded an original symphony.
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.
Women in Classical Music
Women have shaped and changed music for centuries, making all kinds of breakthroughs that bring us to the music we have today.
Classical Americana
From jazz to bluegrass, from gospel to rock and roll - America has created so many kinds of music. Today we're taking a musical road trip across the country, starting with one of the most important American songs ever written.
The Violin
Whether a particular violin is worth a fortune or not, its true value isn't in its price tag—it's in the way the violin whispers, soars, and tell stories that stir our souls.
The World’s Top 5 Classical Music Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List
Explore the rich musical history of Vienna, Salzburg, Milan, Leipzig, and London. Discover iconic venues, museums, and homes of legendary composers in these classical music cities.
Peach Melba and Melba Toast: The Story of a Chef and an Opera Diva
Explore the culinary legacy of French chef Auguste Escoffier, his work at grand hotels, and his unique dishes named after opera singer Nellie Melba.
The Many Lives of the “The Flower Duet”
Explore the Flower Duet from Delibes' opera Lakme. Discover its use in TV, film, and creative remixes.
Chapman Challenge: The History of Handbells
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan explains the history of handbells, their transition from bell tower practice tools to melody instruments, and how melodies are divided among ringers in a handbell choir.
The Ukrainian Folk Tune Behind “Carol of the Bells”
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.
