Classical Breakdown podcast | Listen online for free

173 episodes

William Schuman: The composer that shaped Juilliard, the Lincoln Center, and American music
29/09/2026 | 53 mins.
Why is it that this composer's name is probably not known to you? John Banther and Evan Keely explore some of his extraordinary music and achievements in the arts, including how he shaped art institutions and his very unusual start in composing music.
What is a Harp with Nadia Pessoa: Ancient origins to modern innovations!
15/09/2026 | 38 mins.
Not too many instruments in the orchestra have a history that spans the centuries, and use of the harp! Nadia Pessoa, a Washington, DC-area harpist, shares with us the harp's use in the orchestra from around 1600 to now, answers John's burning questions, and plays for us, including a recent viral tune on the harp.
Bonus! A performance of Handel's Water Music
08/09/2026 | 49 mins.
Enjoy a Concertgebouw Chamber Orchestra recording of the music we learned about last week, plus a listener comment that helps clarify the situation after Queen Anne's death!
Handel's Water Music; a Kings bid to lift his reputation and one smelly river
01/09/2026 | 48 mins.
Why did Handel write this, and what would it have been like on the river's edge? John Banther and Linda Carducci explore how Handel went above and beyond for a King and even what it would have been like for the musicians.
Season 7 Recommended Summer Listening!
23/06/2026 | 33 mins.
It's time again to look at some recently recorded albums for us to enjoy and grow with this summer. John Banther has 4 albums to recommend, and one of them includes a remarkable composer's story!

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About Classical Breakdown

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.

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