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Chapman Challenge: What’s the Spookiest Instrument?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses the spookiest instruments in honor of Halloween, highlighting the eerie sounds of the theremin and the scary potential of violins.
A Whirlwind Tour Through the Woodwinds
Explore the unique characteristics and roles of wind instruments in an orchestra, including the practice of musicians doubling on different instruments.
Get to Know the Quintessential Underdog of the Orchestra: The Viola
Explore the unique role of the viola in orchestral music, often overlooked but crucial in connecting melodies. Discover five standout viola moments in orchestral literature.
Why Don’t Trombones Have Valves Like Trumpets?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan Chapman explains why trombones use slides instead of valves like trumpets, tracing back to their 15th-century ancestor, the sackbut.
Don’t Underestimate the Tuba
Explore the depth and range of the tuba beyond its stereotype as an "oom-pah machine". This article highlights five orchestral pieces that showcase the tuba's versatility.
Theremin, Harp, and Shaky Strings: The Golden Globe Winning Music of “First Man”
"Justin Hurwitz won the 2019 Golden Globe for Best Original Score for 'First Man'. The article discusses his collaboration with director Damien Chazelle and their journey from jazz to space."
Giving New Life to a Precious Violin
Anne Akiko Meyers plays Vivaldi on the historic "Vieuxtemps" Guarneri del Gesu violin, crafted in 1741, for her 2014 CD. The violin had been stored for 50 years prior.
The Lullaby
Some famous - and surprising - examples of music to make you sleepy.
The Celesta
Let's dig into some seriously mysterious music.
Chapman Challenge: The Story Behind Handel’s “Messiah”
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses Handel's journey with oratorios, from his first encounter in Italy to his profitable English oratorios, culminating in the creation of Messiah.
What Makes a Christmas Concerto a Christmas Concerto?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan explains that a Christmas concerto is a type of concerto grosso from the Baroque period, characterized by a Pastorale movement.
A Playlist to Celebrate All Things Fall
Explore the beauty of autumn through music with this curated list of compositions inspired by the season's warm colors, chilly weather, and melancholic mood.
Classical Music and Its Powerful Effect on the Brain
Explore the transformative impact of music on the brain with Classical California host Brisa Siegel and USC's Brain and Creativity Institute. Discover how music shapes young minds.
Trippy Tales in Classical Music
Explore the connection between altered states of consciousness and music composition, featuring works by Berlioz, Hildegard of Bingen, and Schumann.
10 More Composers With Latin American Roots You Should Know
Explore the lives and works of ten influential female composers from Latin America, spanning various genres and periods, from opera to electronic music.
