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Your Playlist for Hangin’ in the Hammock
Explore Rik Malone's recommended playlist for a perfect California summer experience. From relaxing hammock tunes to music that transports you to distant places, enjoy your summer with these iconic pieces.
A Playlist for Lounging by the Pool
Explore Brian Lauritzen's poolside playlist featuring classical pieces like Ravel's Jeux d’eau, Strauss's Tritsch-Tratsch-Polka, and more, perfect for a sunny, relaxing day by the pool.
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.
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!
Rainy Classics…
Explore how composers like Chopin, Debussy, and Beethoven have used music to depict rain and storms, from light drizzles to thunderous downpours.
Using Waterfalls and Lakes to Teach Musical Dynamics…
The Friction Quartet used water metaphors to teach musical concepts to students at Cleveland Elementary School in Oakland during a KDFC Playground Pop-Up Concert.
Water Music
Let’s go dip our toes into music inspired by water.
The Lesser-Known History of “Jingle Bells”
Explore the history of the iconic Christmas song "Jingle Bells," from its creation by James Lord Pierpont in 1850 to its evolution and various renditions by famous artists over the years.
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.
A Perilous Playlist of the Most Macabre Music
Explore a Halloween playlist, featuring macabre music chosen by hosts and staffers. From Verdi’s Requiem to John Williams’ Jaws theme, prepare for a harrowing holiday.
