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The Mystery Behind Scriabin’s Mystic Chord
This article explores Russian composer Alexander Scriabin's fascination with the occult, his creation of the "mystic chord," and its use in his compositions, including the unfinished piece, Mysterium.
The Musical Quest for Perpetual Motion
Explore the concept of Perpetual Motion in music, as seen in works by composers like Niccolò Paganini and Johann Strauss II, defying the laws of thermodynamics.
A Brief History of Composers Sneaking Their Names into Their Music
Explore the intriguing world of musical cryptograms, where composers like Bach and Shostakovich cleverly embed their names into their compositions using note sequences.
What’s the Relationship Among the Movements in a Symphony?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses the harmonic and melodic relationships among the movements of a symphony, using Beethoven's Fifth Symphony as an example.
Chapman Challenge: How Does a Composer Pick the Key for a Piece?
In this Chapman Challenge, Alan discusses how composers choose keys for their pieces, considering factors like instrument range, personal preference, and connections to previous works.
Chapman Challenge: Do Composers Write for Each Instrument?
Explore the process of symphony composition in this Chapman Challenge. Learn how composers craft each note for every instrument, and the role of orchestrators in Broadway and film music.
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.
colors
What if I told you that music and colors are more connected than you think? Let’s listen to some colorful pictures!
The Violin
Whether a particular violin is worth a fortune or not, its true value isn't in its price tag—it's in the way the violin whispers, soars, and tell stories that stir our souls.
The Symphony
A symphony is like an enormous musical mural that wraps all the way around you. Each instrument plays its own colors and patterns until they all create something magnificent together.
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.
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.
Finding Beauty in Historical Ruins
Explore how ancient ruins inspire classical music, from Felix's Scottish Symphony inspired by Holyrood Palace to Zipoli's works found in decaying South American churches.
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.
Elgar’s “Enigma Variations”
Explore the intriguing history of Edward Elgar's Enigma Variations, composed in 1898-99. Discover how this piece, inspired by Elgar's friends and personal experiences, established his fame.
