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How the 1812 Overture Became Music for the Fourth of July
Explore the history of Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture's popularity in 4th of July celebrations, its association with fireworks, and its original context in this insightful blog.
Love in the Shadows: Tchaikovsky's Censored Letters
Many of Tchaikovsky's letters with and about male lovers were suppressed by Russian censors, as well as his family.
The Secret Story Behind Tchaikovsky’s Mysterious Celesta in “The Nutcracker”
Explore the history of the celesta, a unique instrument used in Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker and Harry Potter's theme. Discover how it went from obscurity to symphony staple.
What Do Kim Kardashian and Peter Tchaikovsky Have in Common?
Explore new video series on the Classical California YouTube Channel: 'In Times Like These' and 'Open Ears'. Discover under-recognized music and the blend of pop culture with classical music history.
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.
The Sugar Plum Fairy in the City of Angels
In 2013, Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil performed Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. The recording, recently released, is now KUSC's album of the week.
Natasha Paremski’s ‘Pictures’ and ‘Tchaikovsky Variations’
Pianist Natasha Paremski discusses her latest album on the Steinway & Sons label, featuring Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition and Fred Hersch’s Variations on a Theme by Tchaikovsky.
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.
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.
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.
