With NASA’s planned launch of Artemis, we are returning to the moon after more than 50 years. Here's your must-hear lunar soundtrack of eight classical works to celebrate this momentous occasion.


8 classical works to celebrate our return to the moon with NASA's Artemis

Tuesday evening marks the beginning of Hanukkah, which runs for eight nights. Hear some of the music and learn about customs that make the Jewish Festival of Lights meaningful.


8 songs for 8 nights: Music for Hanukkah

In the wake of opera star Jessye Norman's death, our music director reflects on his favorite of her performances. Listen to 11 of her most amazing and awe-inspiring interpretations.


Remembering Jessye Norman: 11 unforgettable performances by the opera star

Long before Walt Disney got involved in fairy tales, classical composers mined children's stories to create well-loved masterpieces. Join us as we explore these musical storytellers of yore -- from Dvorak to Rimsky-Korsakov -- in celebration of Monday's National Tell a Fairy Tale Day.


Celebrate Tell a Fairy Tale Day with these classical music storytellers

Figure skating conjures vivid images of highly skilled athletes, thrilling moves and eye-popping costumes. And tying together the elements of that visual splendor is stunning music. As the Winter Olympics begin, here's a look at a dozen past and present figure skaters who have mined the world of classical music in their quests for a medal.


And the gold medal for figure skating goes to classical music

Wednesday's early-morning sky featured a stunning celestial display as a lunar eclipse coincided with a supermoon and a blue moon. If that doesn't make you want to break out in song, at least you can cue up some classical music that also features the moon in a starring role. Here's your must-hear lunar soundtrack.


What music do you play for a spectacular moon display?

Richard Wagner created some of the most satisfying music to experience, especially when performed by artists gifted with a voice suitable for his work. In preparation for Classical MPR's reairing of Minnesota Opera's 2017 production of 'Das Rheingold' on Thursday, here are some of the best moments from Wagner's 'Ring Cycle.'


Does music get any better than Wagner's greatest moments from his 'Ring Cycle'?

Crazy for "The Crown"? Netflix's original series about Queen Elizabeth II's reign is all the rage -- and in no small part because of its music. Here's a selection of 10 classical works that brightened its first two seasons.


Give yourself the royal treatment with classical music from 'The Crown'

It's a little cold out there, eh? So the time is ideal to survey the best classical works for winter. No matter how frigid it gets outside, these dozen frosty concoctions are sure to warm your musical heart.


Come in from the cold with the 12 best classical works for winter

In acknowledgment of the 300th anniversary of Handel's Water Music, we are asking you to vote for your favorite pieces of music inspired by water. Then, be sure to listen to Classical MPR on Monday, July 17, when Steve Staruch counts down your favorite pieces of water music.


Ryan Lohr

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