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Classical Basics

Where do you start in classical music? With this collection of suggestions for the basics.

'Star Wars': John Williams's classical influences

'Star Wars': John Williams's classical influences

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?

10 great choral works you should know

10 great choral works you should know

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!

10 great symphonies you should know

10 great symphonies you should know

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.

The 'Star Wars' guide to classical music

The 'Star Wars' guide to classical music

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!

5 classical works for new, young listeners

5 classical works for new, young listeners

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 can you do with a piano?

What can you do with a piano?

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.    

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Video Games and Classical Music

Video Games and Classical Music

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.

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5 Renaissance choral composers you should know

5 Renaissance choral composers you should know

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.

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Why is American classical music so white?

Why is American classical music so white?

Early American composers could have shaken off their European sound and mined the rich trove of African American music. They didn't. And one historian believes we're worse off because of it.

10 film composers you should know -- besides John Williams

10 film composers you should know -- besides John Williams

When you hear the term 'film score,' perhaps the themes from your favorite movie come to mind -- the suspenseful bass melody from 'Jaws' or the magical 'Hedwig's Theme' from 'Harry Potter,' both by John Williams. But here are other film composers you might not know as well.

About Classical Basics

Where do you start in classical music? With this collection of suggestions for the basics.

YourClassical Radio
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