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Nutcracker

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.

12/29/2025
5 Pieces Perfect For a Stroll in the Woods

5 Pieces Perfect For a Stroll in the Woods

Explore five classical music pieces inspired by nature's beauty, from Strauss's ode to Vienna Woods to Vaughan-Williams's celebration of pastoral harmony in The Linden Tree.

07/06/2023
Our Comprehensive SoCal Guide to Seeing Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker”

Our Comprehensive SoCal Guide to Seeing Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker”

Discover the best Nutcracker ballet performances in Southern California this Christmas season. From Los Angeles to Orange County, find dates, costs, and venues.

12/11/2019
One More Trip to the Bob Baker Marionette Theater

One More Trip to the Bob Baker Marionette Theater

The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, a 55-year-old institution, is set to close after Thanksgiving. However, the puppet shows will continue at a new, yet-to-be-named location.

04/01/2019
How 9 Year-Old LA Dancers Manage to Sell Out the “Nutcracker”

How 9 Year-Old LA Dancers Manage to Sell Out the “Nutcracker”

Explore the unique charm of Westside Ballet's Nutcracker, the longest-running in LA, featuring live music and a range of performers from young students to professionals.

04/01/2019

RELATED TOPICS

ChristmasPop CultureTchaikovskyMusic HistoryArts Alive Blog

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The World’s Top 5 Classical Music Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

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.

03/12/2026
How Does One of the Most Famous Composers of the Late 1700s Just Disappear from History?

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.

02/01/2026
Chapman Challenge: The History of Handbells

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.

12/30/2025
The Ukrainian Folk Tune Behind “Carol of the Bells”

The Ukrainian Folk Tune Behind “Carol of the Bells”

12/29/2025
These Rides Really Sleigh

These Rides Really Sleigh

Brian Lauritzen gallops into the holidays with these compositions about sleigh rides.

12/25/2025
Harmonious Holiday Highlights

Harmonious Holiday Highlights

highlights from Classical California’s Harmonious Holidays 2025

12/18/2025