
John Banther takes classical music fans behind the scenes with interviews, deep dives, and analysis. Episodes released bi-weekly on Tuesdays. Produced by WETA Classical in Washington, D.C.
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 162 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | MusicMusic HistoryMusic Commentary | |||

Another listener request! John Banther and Bill Bukowski explore the life of Leos Janacek and look at 2 specific subjects to understand this composer's original sound, speech melodies and modality.
John Banther and James Jacobs discuss Mozart's Eine Kleine Nachtmusik and performing it at gigs, which for James reaches into the hundreds at weddings! Plus, we enjoy a full performance with the Berlin Philharmonic.
You know the opening of this work through its countless use in movies, commercials, and even popular music. But do you know the underlying philosophy that inspired Strauss? John Banther and Evan Keely show you how themes transform from beginning to e... more
Let's enjoy two iconic Wagner preludes in two larger-than-life recordings featuring the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and conductor Bernard Haitink!
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It’s never too late in life to study classical music and this show is a great enjoyable way to learn. I keep going further and further back in your episodes. Since I am an amateur pianist I especially love the ones including this instrument. A tiny suggestion- as another grateful positive reviewer noted - we would enjoy more music samples inserted into some of the episodes.
I’ve loved your program ever since I discovered it years ago. I’ve listened to every episode and saved many of my favorites on my phone so I can return to them again and again. All of your co-hosts are truly professional and bring great enthusiasm to the show. I especially enjoy the sense of humor that you and your co-hosts share throughout the program.
The recent episode about Verdi’s life and music was absolutely wonderful, and I’m very much looking forward to the episode on Verdi’s Requiem, ... more
This is such a good show! Thanks, guys from a regular listener here in Edinburgh. Your insights into classical music are marvellous and add so much to our listening.
As a music-lover of many genres, I have little formal background but have come to love the sweeping breadth and depth of classical music. This podcast has helped me become a better listener and brought to my attention many composers that I would not have otherwise known. My wife and I attend concerts, operas, and chamber music recitals often and this podcast has truly deepened our appreciation and connection to the music. Thank you.
As a classical music enthusiast, I simply love this podcast!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
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The focus is on exploring classical music in depth, offering unique insights into the lives and works of various composers as well as the historical contexts of their compositions. Episodes cover a wide range of topics including notable figures in music history, specific works, thematic explorations such as the impact of tyranny on composers, and the artistic nuances within works from different eras and traditions. Each episode blends education with engaging narratives, making classical music more accessible and relevant to both new listeners and long-time enthusiasts alike.
Noteworthy is the inclusion of live performances and interviews with contemporary artists like Jessie Montgomery and Xuefei Yang, as well as deep dives into lesser-kno... more
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Classical Breakdown launched 7 years ago and published 162 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on Classical Breakdown include:
1. Sam Post
2. Jessie Montgomery
3. Xuefei Yang
4. Chris DeChiara
5. Maria V
6. Dr. Karen Walwyn
7. Dr. Michael Cooper
8. Chris Gekker
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