Good to Know

Did you know that John Williams writes music that isn’t for movies? Plus, a young Chinese guitarist tackles one of the most beloved guitar concertos ever written, and two cellists offer evocative interpretations of new and rarely heard music in Recordings of the Month for April.

Conductor Francois-Xavier Roth and the ensemble Les Siecles redefine the use of period instruments, the Czech Philharmonic celebrates its homeland, and the incredible voice of Elīna Garanča highlight our recordings of the month for March.

What is the story behind Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ and why is it performed at both Christmas and Easter? Here’s everything you need to know about this enduring holiday masterpiece, including the best recordings.

Legendary pop star Carole King’s training in classical music shines through in ‘Beautiful,’ the musical story of her life that’s now playing at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. Find out more.

Everyone loves the classic musical ‘The Sound of Music,’ even if they won’t admit it. A new deluxe five-disc set lets listeners enjoy and understand the music beyond the familiar melodies, making every musical element from the film available for the first time.

The lilting music of the waltz has long been associated with ringing in the new year — and not just in classical music. Here’s why — along with a playlist for your New Year’s Eve party, including plenty of tunes by ‘Waltz King’ Johann Strauss Jr.

André 3000’s ‘New Black Sun,’ released 17 years after his previous album, has no lyrics — but it does have plenty of jazzy flute. He’s not the first popular artist to incorporate the instrument. Here are 10 more great flute champions in pop and rock music, besides André 3000.

To accompany Bradley Cooper’s new film, ‘Maestro,’ in which he embodies the legendary Leonard Bernstein, we offer 10 of the composer/conductor’s great recordings.

We asked listeners to tell us their favorite film scores. Dim the lights, grab some popcorn and read on for their top 25 selections in movie music.

What's the difference between violin playing and fiddling? Daniel Johnson explains.