Classical Basics

We asked listeners to tell us their favorite chamber music pieces. Here are the top 20 vote-getters.

Concert band is a large part of classical music, yet many composers don't get the recognition they deserve for contributing to the genre. Here are 10 band composers you should know — besides the March King, John Philip Sousa.

John Williams created the most recognizable musical universe ever to accompany a motion picture when he composed the music for the 'Star Wars' films. But what classical compositions influenced the great film composer?

As instruments, human voices are uniquely capable of combining to create sounds ranging from the soaring glory of Samuel Barber’s ‘Agnus Dei’ to the raw power of Verdi’s ‘Requiem,’ while expanding and interpreting the poetry of the piece being sung. Listen to these 10 great works and and experience that whole spectrum of sound!

When you think of classical music, chances are you’re thinking of a symphony (or a movement from one). It’s the cornerstone of classical music — indeed, it’s in the name of many orchestras. Here are 10 great symphonies to know.

If you like these popular musical selections from the ‘Star Wars’ films, you’ll probably enjoy our recommendations for similarly styled classical works. May the 4th be with you!

The world of classical music can be intimidating for a new listener. Where do you start? Here are one young listener’s suggestions for five contemporary and classic pieces to help you dip your toes in the water.

What kinds of different sounds can be coaxed from a piano? Extra Eclectic host Steve Seel answers this question in the first hour of the show with the help of some 20th and 21st century composers such as Stephen Scott and Sophia Subbayya Vastek. In the show's second hour, Steve unapologetically shares an hour of "lovely" modern classical music, from the likes of George Pelecis, Hugi Gudmundsson, and Reena Esmail.    

Video games and classical music might not share an obvious connection, but they have a surprising relationship. In this episode of YourClassical Adventures, we look at how video game music has evolved from its simple 8-bit tones to including and eventually inspiring and becoming classical music masterpieces.

When you think of Renaissance choral composers, names like Josquin des Prez and Thomas Weelkes come to mind. Here are 5 lesser-known -- but equally great -- composers from this golden age of choral music.