Today in 1882, Eric Satie was expelled from the Paris Conservatory. Why did this happen and what did he accomplish as a result? Find out these answers--as well as what else happened to him on this day in 1908--on today's "A Classical Day in the Life."

Today in 1909, Burl Ives was born in Jasper County, Illinois. Folk singer and actor, he popularized songs such as "The Blue Tail Fly" and "Big Rock Candy Mountain." How might his political views have found their way into a popular holiday television program? Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."

Today in 1988, Paula Abdul--then a little-known choreographer and former LA Laker Girl turned pop singer--released her debut album titled Forever Your Girl. Today's "A Day in the Life" explores the hits from this album and why Milli Vanilli was to blame for Abdul only earning four number one singles off of this album.

Today in 1986 witnessed the debut of Short Ride in a Fast Machine by American composer John Adams. On this episode of "A Classical Day in the Life" we explore the this rhythmic gauntlet and the origins of its inspiration. Hint: it was a car. What type? Have a listen!

The opera Tristan und Isolde premiered in Munich on this day in 1865. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life," we explore the power of an important chord composed by Richard Wagner and why some say it was the beginning of the end for traditional harmony.

Today in 2005, Paul Anka was awarded the 'Order of Canada.' What inspired his 1957 hit "Diana"? What song did he write for Buddy Holly? What did he contribute to The Tonight Show? And how many songs has he written? All this and more on today's episode of "A Day in the Life."

On this day in 1840, the Hungarian composer and virtuoso pianist Franz Liszt changed the history of concertgoing culture: he inaugurated the term "recital" for a concert he gave at the Hanover Square Rooms in London. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life", we learn more about Liszt's concept of recitals and what he played at his first one on this day in 1840.

Today in 1970 Bruce Springsteen began to record his first album: Greetings from Asbury Park, N.J. Find out what songs he recorded, who he recorded with, and the critical response to this initial outing today on "A Day in the Life."

The comedic film Trading Places premiered on this day in 1983. What music accompanied stars Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd through Prince and the Pauper experiences? Find out today on "A Day in the Life."

On this day in 1810, the German composer Robert Schumann was born. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life", we explore one of the heavyweights of the 19th century romantic tradition.