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“Arcade” Stream in The New York Times!
"Jennifer Miller Hammel of Classical California introduces Arcade, a stream blending classical music and video game scores, challenging preconceptions and uniting diverse audiences."
Classical Californians: Inon Zur
Composer Inon Zur, known for his video game scores, offers a playlist of his musical favorites. Discover his inspirations from Beethoven to Stravinsky, and his latest work for Starfield.
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.
A Brief Introduction to the Music of Final Fantasy
Explore the history of Final Fantasy and its iconic music by Nobuo Uematsu. Learn how the franchise's music has become a staple in orchestral concerts and game music events.
Into the Storm with Composer Inon Zur
Explore the musical journey of composer Inon Zur, from his early days in Israel to scoring for popular video games like Fallout and Dragon Age, and his latest album, Into the Storm.
Practicing Piano via Video Games
Explore your musical skills with Pianista: The Legendary Virtuoso on Nintendo Switch. Play challenging piano works, compete globally, and unlock new content as you progress.
Celebrate the Memorable Music of “Assassin’s Creed”
The Dolby Theater is hosting the Assassin’s Creed Symphony, celebrating the music of the video game series. KUSC's Jennifer Miller interviews original composer, Jesper Kyd.
Video Games
We're going to stack blocks, save the princess, and fight off an alien invasion!
Beethoven’s Quartet of ‘Thanksgiving’
Beethoven's String Quartet in A Minor, Op. 132, features a movement expressing gratitude for recovery from illness. It alternates between prayerful chorales and lively sections, reflecting his mortality.
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.
The Mystery Behind Scriabin’s Mystic Chord
Explore the life of Russian composer Alexander Scriabin, his obsession with the occult, and his creation of the "mystic chord" used in his compositions.
The Poetic Inspiration Behind Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “The Lark Ascending”
Explore the inspiration behind Ralph Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending, a violin piece based on an 1880s British poem. Discover why this music continues to captivate listeners.
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.
A Playlist to Celebrate All Things Fall
Explore the beauty of autumn through music with this curated list of compositions inspired by the season's warm colors, chilly weather, and melancholic mood.
