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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.
Chapman Challenge: What’s the Story Behind the Gewandhaus Orchestra?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan explains the origin of the Gewandhaus Orchestra's name, its connection to Leipzig's textile trade, and its evolution as a musical center since 1781.
Chapman Challenge: What’s an Opus Number?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan Chapman explains opus numbers in music, their purpose, and how they don't necessarily indicate the order of a composer's works.
Chapman Challenge: What Is a Rondo?
Explore the rondo, a popular musical form often used in concertos and symphonies, known for its recurring refrain and contrasting sections. Learn how composers play with its structure for listener enjoyment.
Chapman Challenge: What Is a Chaconne?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan Chapman explains the chaconne, a Baroque musical form built on a repeated series of chords, using Henry Purcell's work as an example.
Chapman Challenge: What is a Sonata?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan Chapman explains the origin and evolution of the term 'sonata' in music, from its Italian roots to its use in the Classical and Baroque periods.
Chapman Challenge: What Exactly is an Adagio?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan Chapman explains the term "adagio" as a tempo indication in music, along with other tempo terms, and gives examples of famous adagio pieces.
Open Ears: Eva Jessye and the Harlem Renaissance
This article explores the life of Eva Jessye, a key figure in American music and the Harlem Renaissance, who made significant contributions to civil rights and classical music.
Virtuosity and Nostalgia: Teresa Carreño and Chopin
Explore the life and music of Teresa Carreño, a South American composer and pianist, and her significant influence from Frédéric Chopin.
Fanny Mendelssohn Finally Gets Her Due
Fanny Mendelssohn's lost masterpiece, misattributed to her brother for 150 years, is finally recognized as hers, shedding light on her overlooked musical talent.
Women Who Made (Musical) History
Celebrating Women's History Month with a look at influential women in classical music, from Hildegard Von Bingen to Dr. Lucy Jones, who broke barriers and made history.
Meet the Mozart of Spain, Sweden, and More
Explore the lives of composers dubbed as the "Mozarts" of their countries, including Joseph Martin Kraus of Sweden, Juan Arriaga of Spain, and two English contenders.
The Sounds of Sunrise
Explore the beauty of sunrise through music with this list of compositions inspired by dawn, from Haydn's "Sunrise" Symphony to Ravel's "Daphnis and Chloe".
