Classical Breakdown

By WETA ClassicalMusic Music Commentary Music Interviews Music History

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44th
on Music History
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54
Followers
Typical duration
51 min
per episode

Based on Podcast App listening data

Classical Breakdown episodes

December 15, 2020 The Nutcracker, how it became a holiday classic, and what to listen for
This holiday classic has helped define the "Christmas" sound for generations, but there's more to the music than you think.
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45 min
December 01, 2020 Beethoven's Symphony No. 9
Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 was revolutionary, but if all you know is the "Ode to Joy" you are missing out! From it's opening notes to the final crescendo, join Bill Bukowski and John Banther for a musical deep dive into Beethoven's final symphony.
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53 min
November 17, 2020 What is a string quartet?
Is it the ultimate test for a composer? Discover its origins and how this genre evolved over centuries with James Jacobs and John Banther.
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1 hr 3 min
November 03, 2020 Beethoven's triumphant Symphony No. 5
There's a lot about this masterpiece you may not know. Nicole LaCroix joins John Banther to explore its premiere and unique musical moments.
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47 min
October 20, 2020 The life of Tchaikovsky
From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the greatest composers, explore the life and music of Tchaikovsky.
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45 min
October 06, 2020 What is an Overture?
Is an Overture defined by the kind of music it contains or simply where it appears in a concert? The answer can change throughout history, and with musical examples, John and Nicole get into the details of this "bite-size music."
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41 min
September 22, 2020 Rimsky-Korsakov's enchanting Scheherazade
Discover the musical details and backstory of a work that's captivated listeners for over a century. John Banther and Linda Carducci discuss its origins and use their imagination to fill in the musical gaps.
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46 min
September 08, 2020 The life of Beethoven
Discover the life and works of one classical music's greatest composers! His life was full of groundbreaking music, but it was also tragic as he dealt with family problems and hearing loss. We explore the details of his life and listen to samples of his music, from his first composition to his final Symphony No. 9.
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1 hr 9 min
September 01, 2020 Season 2 returns September 8!
Your favorite classical music podcast returns this month with a deep dive into the life of Beethoven and a breakdown of Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade.
1 min
June 30, 2020 Recommended summer listening
Expand your musical palate with music found in an attic in 2009, new interpretations of Beethoven and Franck, and an instrument you've probably never heard before.
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11 min

About Classical Breakdown

From the publisher's feed

John Banther takes classical music fans behind the scenes with interviews, deep dives, and analysis. Episodes released bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Produced by WETA Classical in Washington, D.C.