How did Erik Satie's Gymnopedies become the quintessential relaxation music? Of their time, they also seem to float above and beyond it.


How Satie's Gymnopedies became ubiquitous

The Choral Scholars of University College Dublin performs an Irish lullaby that dates from 1904.


Listen to a haunting century-old Irish lullaby

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?


'Star Wars' music: What were John Williams' classical influences?

Did you know the only statue dedicated to a musician in Minneapolis depicts a great Norwegian violinist? Could you find the site of the Minnesota Orchestra's first concert? If not, hop on your bike and take a look.


Hidden music history landmarks: A Minneapolis bike tour

Classical music's had more than its share of broken hearts - but not every composer was lovelorn! Here are six who found lasting happiness in committed relationships.


Six composers who were lucky in love

This weekend, the Minnesota Orchestra is filling the Minneapolis Convention Center with young (and not-so-young) wizards thrilling to John Williams's score for 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.'


Minnesota Orchestra enters the 'Chamber of Secrets' with Harry Potter

This weekend, the Minnesota Orchestra is playing the complete score to Disney's 'Little Mermaid,' reminding audiences that Alan Menken's score is an exuberant celebration of music.


Minnesota Orchestra gets into the swim with Disney's 'Little Mermaid'

The score that Steven Spielberg calls 'John Williams's best work for the movies' has been reissued in a two-disc set that lets fans hear more of the glorious music than ever.


What's new in the 'E.T.' 35th anniversary soundtrack reissue

Live film scores are a booming business in orchestral music, but only now have John Williams's iconic scores to the original Star Wars trilogy been performed live. The composer himself wasn't sure such a feat of instrumental endurance would ever be possible.


New York Philharmonic debuts Star Wars scores, in landmark live-to-picture performances

With composers Hans Zimmer and Benjamin Wallfisch updating Vangelis's iconic score, 'Blade Runner 2049' is a worthy sequel - and that's saying a lot.


Jay Gabler

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