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Celebrate The Fourth With Gershwin and Dianne's Favorite Side Dish
Dianne's All American Potato Salad
Open Ears: Eva Jessye and the Harlem Renaissance
This article explores the life of Eva Jessye, a key figure in American music and the Harlem Renaissance, who made significant contributions to civil rights and classical music.
George Gershwin Captures the Sounds of Paris
Explore the inspiration and creation of George Gershwin's symphonic poem, An American in Paris, its initial reception, and its enduring popularity in music and film.
George Gershwin Changes American Music Forever with the One and Only “Rhapsody in Blue”
Explore the life and impact of George Gershwin, the composer who revolutionized American music by blending jazz and classical genres in his iconic work, Rhapsody in Blue.
Gerstein on Gershwin…
Kirill Gerstein blends classical and jazz in 'The Gershwin Moment', featuring the St. Louis Orchestra and guests. He discusses his jazz influence and careful improvisation approach.
Jazzy Classical
The first music style born right here in America—jazz—meets classical music!
An Obsessive Love that Mirrored Life
Explore the dramatic tale of Hector Berlioz's Symphonie fantastique, an autobiographical piece reflecting his obsessive love for actress Harriet Smithson and his descent into madness.
The Story Behind “Appalachian Spring,” the Ballet
Explore the history of Appalachian Spring, a ballet commissioned by Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge, composed by Aaron Copland, and choreographed by Martha Graham.
A Heroic Piece in Hard Times: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto
Explore the history of Beethoven's Fifth Piano Concerto, nicknamed "Emperor", composed during Napoleon's invasion of Vienna in 1809, reflecting the composer's resilience amidst chaos.
Mozart Hurls Thunderbolts From Jupiter
Explore Mozart's "Jupiter" Symphony, its origins, and how Bach's influence led to the masterpiece of counterpoint in its final movement.
Opera’s Ultimate Five-Minute Interlude: The Meditation from “Thais”
Explore the enduring appeal of Jules Massenet's "Meditation from Thaïs", a five-minute interlude that has become a beloved piece in the classical music repertoire.
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.