It was on this day in 1928 that Maurice Ravel's Bolero had its premiere, at the Paris Opera. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life" we examine the composition and the various rates at which it has been performed in popular recordings.

Today in 1631, the Great Plague of Milan came to a ceremonial end. This particular outbreak of the centuries-old Bubonic Plague, an epidemic that began with the so-called Black Death in the mid-fourteenth century, claimed the lives of approximately 25% of northern Italy's population. On today's "A Classical Day in the Life" we explore the Thanksgiving Mass Claudio Monteverdi composed for the occasion of the construction of the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute.

It was on this day in 1965 that the Icelandic singer, songwriter, and actress Björk Guðmundsdóttir was born. On today's "A Day in the Life", we explore the beginnings of her career as an eleven-year-old pop sensation and later with the Sugarcubes.

Today's "A Classical Day in the Life" explores the sprawling musical world of author Margaret Atwood, born on this day in 1939. We journey from high school musicals, to Elvis, to her "Letter to America," to the operatic stage.

Today in 2005 the Hollywood biopic Walk the Line about the life and career of Johnny Cash premiered in the United States. Mainstream films about country music are rare and it took more than ten years to make this one, find out why on today's "A Day in the Life."

Today in 1558, Queen Elizabeth I ascended the throne of England. Nicknamed Oriana, the queen created a fostering environment for music during her 44-year reign. Who were the leading figures of this so-called Elizabethan era? Find out on today's "A Classical Day in the Life."

Today in 1938, Canadian singer/songwriter Gordon Lightfoot was born in Toronto. He made his debut in 4th grade over the school's PA system and would go on to author the classic song "Early Morning Rain." What else should you know about Lightfoot? Find out on today's "A Day in the Life."

Today in 1900 Philadelphia Orchestra performed its first concert at the Academy of Music. Today's "A Day in the Life" explores the music of this debut performance--including works by Goldmark, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky--and considers how the ensemble eventually found its signature "Philadelphia Sound."

Ray Charles held the #1 spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 today in 1960, with a song titled "Georgia On My Mind." Where does the song come from, why did Charles record this cover, and who else has recorded it? Find out today on "A Day in the Life."

Today in 1711, Soprano Catherine Rafter was was born in London, England to an Irish father and English mother. Ultimately known by her stage name, Kitty Clive, she would become a well-known interpreter of the music of both Henry Purcell and George Frederic Handel. Learn more on today's "A Classical Day in the Life".