Nature

A River Runs Through This Music

Explore the stories behind classical compositions inspired by rivers, from Smetana's The Moldau to Beglarian's BRIM: The River Project, and their transformative power.

A Closer Look at Music Inspired by Rain

Explore music inspired by rain, from Chopin's Raindrop Prelude to Ryuichi Sakamoto's Oscar-winning Rain. Discover how various instruments, including piano and cello, evoke rainfall.

Finding Inspiration in Birds: Sibelius’s Fifth Symphony

Explore how composers like Vivaldi, Sibelius, and Rautavaara have incorporated birdsong into their music, from The Four Seasons to Cantus Arcticus.

The Poetic Inspiration Behind Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “The Lark Ascending”

Explore the inspiration behind Ralph Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending, a violin piece based on an 1880s British poem. Discover why this music continues to captivate listeners.

The Many Lives of the “The Flower Duet”

Explore the #75 entry on the Classical California Ultimate Playlist: the Flower Duet from Delibes' opera Lakme. Discover its use in TV, film, and creative remixes.

Your Playlist for a Summer Kayak Paddle

Explore California's summer with KUSC's music recommendations for kayaking adventures. From L. Peter Deutch's Ocean Air to Mendelssohn's Midsummer Night's Dream Overture, enjoy the journey!