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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.
WATCH: SKY Concert Featuring Jake Heggie
On May 30th, 2024 our evening host and resident artist pianist Lara Downes welcomes two longtime friends and musical collaborators: the legendary mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade and San Francisco’s own legend-in-the-making Jake Heggie, considered one of the world's most popular 21st-century opera and art song composers.
Classical Californians: James Conlon
This week's Classical Californian is James Conlon, Music Director of LA Opera
Opera Characters Who Would Make Terrible Valentines!
Explore the world of opera's disastrous romances this Valentine's Day. From Mozart's Don Giovanni to Puccini's Turandot, learn why these characters are bad for love.
Peach Melba and Melba Toast: The Story of a Chef and an Opera Diva
Explore the culinary legacy of French chef Auguste Escoffier, his work at grand hotels, and his unique dishes named after opera singer Nellie Melba.
WATCH | Beethoven’s Only Opera Recreated With Deaf West Theatre
Discover how Deaf West Theatre and LA Phil transformed Beethoven's Fidelio into a unique experience for both Deaf and hearing audiences. Explore more on our YouTube channel.
5 Must Hear (and See!) Operatic Performances
Explore opera favorites curated by expert Jennifer Miller Hammel for the Classical California Ultimate Playlist. Discover new pieces or relive classics from Verdi, Bizet, and more.
Opera
It's time to dress up and get a pair of those fancy looking binoculars: we're at the opera!
10 Composers From Across Latin America We’re Celebrating This Month!
Explore the rich heritage of Hispanic music through these 10 influential composers, from Teresa Carreño to Gabriela Ortiz.
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.
Classical Californians: Ben Shirley | Tune in Wednesday at 7pm!
Tune in Wednesday at 7pm to hear our next Classical Californian, composer Ben Shirley
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.
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.
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.
