Classical Kids Corner

Episode 104 playlist J. S. Bach: Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, BWV 1007: Prélude — Performed by Yo -Yo Ma Johann Sebastian Bach - Cello Suite No. 1 Prelude by Anonymous: Song of the Birds - Performed by Sheku Kanneh-Mason & CBSO Cellos Anonymous - Song of the Birds by Francesco Gasparini: Cantate da camera a voce sola, Op 1 — Performed by Roberta Invernizzi, Auser Musici & Carlo Ipata Francesco Gasparini - Cantate da camera a voce sola, Op 1 by Harold Arlen: Over the Rainbow — Performed by Yo-Yo Ma & Kathryn Stott Harold Arlen - Over the Rainbow by Akua Dixon: Afrika! Afrika! — Performed by Akua Dixon Akua Dizon - Afrika! Afrika! by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

When you picture your perfect day in the fall season, what does it look like Does it include crisp fall leaves, sweater weather and cooler temperatures? Join host Liz Lyon as we discover pieces that sound like the different stages of fall. Episode 102 playlist Scott Joplin: Maple Leaf Rag - (Used at the beginning and end of the episode) This piece by Scott Joplin was groundbreaking for the genre of rag music and became a template for the composers of rag music in the years to come. The Maple leaves change their color in the fall to the vivid browns and fiery reds. Performed by The Band and Lara Downes on Piano. Scott Joplin - Maple Leaf Rag by Fanny Mendelssohn: Das Jar No. 9 (September) - Fanny Mendelssohn composed a set of 12 piano pieces representing every month of the year. ‘September' of Das Jahr (‘The Year') is based it off a poem “To the Moon,” which compares the passage of time with a flowing river. Performed by Liana Serbescu on piano. Fanny Mendelssohn - Das Jahr No. 9 - September by Imogen Holst: Fall of Leaf — As you get further into the fall you can see the magic of leaves turning different colors and they begin to fall…. In this piece you can almost hear the individual leaves falling and drifting in the wind. Performed by Steven Isserlis on Cello. Imogen Holst - Fall of the Leaf by Tōru Takemitsu: A String Around Autumn — Tōru Takemitsu wrote this piece of music to celebrate a fall festival but it sounds like the end of autumn. It is sadder, more sparse and you can almost hear the promise that snow is on the way. Performed by Saito Kinen Orchestra and featuring Nobuko Imai on viola. Tōru Takemitsu - A String Around Autumn by Astor Piazzolla: Autumn in Buenos Aires (Otono Porteno) - Astor Piazzolla wrote a piece of music to celebrate the different seasons in Buenos Aires Argentina. Autumn contains musical raindrops and a wintery sun. Performed by the Buffalo Symphony Orchestra featuring Tessa Lark on violin. Astor Piazzolla - Autumn in Buenos Aires by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

When you are learning any subject, is it helpful to have small assignments to work on in order to practice your skills? Join host Liz Lyon as we explore pieces of music that are helpful for learning an instrument. Episode 100 playlist György Ligeti: Etude No.13 “The Devil's Staircase” — Etudes are short pieces of music that are written to practice a specific technical skill. Composer György Ligeti wrote a very difficult etude for solo piano that forces the player to get used to playing the entire keyboard. It is called, “The Devil's Staircase” because it sounds like the piece is climbing up a staircase. Performed by Maria Nemtsova on Piano.LISTEN  — György Ligeti: Etude No.13 “The Devil's Staircase”  György Ligeti: Etude No.13 “The Devil's Staircase” by Nicolo Paganini: Caprice 24 in A Minor — Composer Niccolò Paganini was a violin superstar who created a ton of new techniques or ways to play the violin. Some of these techniques were published in a set of 24 pieces. The first 23 each focus on a specific skill but number 24 is a piece that combines all of the skills you have learned through the first 23. Performed by Itzhak Perlman on Violin.LISTEN  — Nicolo Paganini: Caprice 24 in A Minor Nicolo Paganini: Caprice 24 in A Minor by Ralph Van Williams: Concerto Grosso — The Rural Music Schools Association asked composer Ralph Vaughn Williams to write a piece of music that could be played by students at all levels. He talked to a lot of teachers to write for three different levels: Beginner, Intermediate and advanced. These three sections all play together at the same time. Performed by Bournemouth Sinfonietta.LISTEN  — Ralph Van Williams: Concerto Grosso Ralph Van Williams: Concerto Grosso by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Tell us what you think You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Sometimes composers and their work can get buried in time. Join producer Melanie Renate as we uncover and learn more about composers who aren't as well known in the traditional classical world. Episode 96 playlist Gerald Finzi - Cello Concerto — Some of Gerald Finzi's pieces are well known, but after he died his family worked hard to help make sure more of his music was made accessible to people. This is the last piece he wrote.LISTEN  — Gerald Finzi: Cello Concerto Gerald Finzi: Cello Concerto by Jan Dismas Zelenka: Capriccio No. 4  — War causes great loss. One of the many things that can be lost or destroyed by war is art. Jan Dismas Zelenka's music was thought to have been lost when his city was destroyed during a war. Luckily, some of his music survived.LISTEN  —  Jan Dismas Zelenka: Capriccio No. 4 Jan Dismas Zelenka: Capriccio No. 4 by Kikuko Kanai: Ryukyu Dances - 'Maidens Under the Moon' — There are so many amazing composers who aren't well-known simply because their music hasn't been recorded yet. Kikuko Kanai was well-known in her home country of Japan. Even though she composed more than 150 pieces of music, only a relative few have been recorded.LISTEN  —  Kikuko Kanai: Ryukyu Dances - 'Maidens Under the Moon' Kikuko Kanai: Ryukyu Dances - 'Maidens Under the Moon' by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Music can still be music without a melody or harmony, but you can't really have music without some sort of rhythm. Join host Liz Lyon as we explore the musical concept of rhythm. Episode 94 playlist George Gershwin: I've Got Rhythm — Gershwin worked with his older brother on this piece. He composed the music, and his older brother, Ira Gershwin, wrote the lyrics. This rhythm can really help to put you in a good mood.LISTEN  — George Gershwin: I've Got Rhythm George Gershwin: I've Got Rhythm by Igor Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring — Rhythm doesn't have to be a simple pattern of sound and silence. In 1913, Stravinsky used rhythm in new ways that people weren't used to. Because of this, many listeners didn't like this piece at first, but over time it has become an orchestral favorite.LISTEN  —  Igor Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring Igor Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring by Danny Elfman: Percussion Quartet, 3rd Movement — Percussion instruments do a great job of presenting the rhythm of a piece. Sometimes pieces of music are written just for percussion, and they can play really complicated rhythms. Here the Third Coast Percussion Ensemble plays a piece by Elfman.LISTEN  —  Danny Elfman: Percussion Quartet, 3rd Movement Danny Elfman: Percussion Quartet by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

The percussion instrument family is massive. In a previous episode, we shared pieces of music featuring a few different percussion instruments including the xylophone. Did you know that the xylophone has siblings? Join host Liz Lyon and producer Melanie Renate as we explore pieces of classical music that feature more mallet instruments. Episode 93 playlist Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Schnelle Füße, rascher Mut Glockenspiel — The Magic Flute is an opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The glockenspiel is featured in this fairytale. This instrument started out as a set of individual bells, but they were eventually replaced by steel bars. At first, the glockenspiel was considered a substitute for real bells, but it gradually became its own instrument.LISTEN — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Schnelle Füße, rascher Mut Glockenspiel Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Schnelle Füße, rascher Mut Glockenspiel by Jennifer Bellor: Reflections at Dusk  — The vibraphone was invented in 1920 and quickly became a major instrument used in jazz and dance bands. It can also be found in the orchestra. Jennifer Bellor uses the vibraphone throughout her 2019 album, which was inspired by Nevada sunsets. The feeling of sunsets is described using the mystical and magical sounds of the vibraphone.LISTEN — Jennifer Bellor: Reflections at Dusk Jennifer Bellor: Reflections at Dusk by Steve Reich: Nagoya Marimbas — The marimba is an instrument that has been around for hundreds of years and has its roots both in Africa and Central America. Indigenous Mayan populations even constructed and played the marimba. Composer, Steve Reich has used the marimba throughout much of his work and he is known as one of a handful of living composers who can legitimately claim to have altered the direction of musical history.LISTEN — Steve Reich: Nagoya Marimbas Steve Reich: Nagoya Marimbas by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Harmony in music is when more than one note or chord is layered on top of one another. It creates an often pleasing and sometimes interesting sound. Join host Liz Lyon and producer Melanie Renate as we explore the concept of harmony. Episode 91 playlist Thomas Tallis: If Ye Love Me — A great example of harmony is a madrigal, which is a vocal piece of music that includes a number of voices ranging from two to eight, but usually three to six voices. Madrigals present a great opportunity to play with harmony.LISTEN  — Thomas Tallis: If Ye Love Me Thomas Tallis: If Ye Love Me by Johann Sebastian Bach: Bach's Minuet in G Major — When learning music, this piece of music is often one of the first pieces to be included in lessons. It can happily be a solo, but once you add an accompaniment, such as a piano or even a full orchestra, then you've created harmony.LISTEN  — Johann Sebastian Bach: Bach's Minuet in G Major Johann Sebastian Bach: Bach's Minuet in G by Robert de Visee: La Muzette — This music is performed by four string instruments working together to create a piece that shows harmony in a variety of ways. Can you hear when the harmony is pleasing to the ear (consonant) or when the harmony is a little uncomfortable (dissonant)?LISTEN  — Robert de Visee: La Muzette  Bedrich Smetana: String Quartet No. 1 - From My Life by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

The viola often plays a supporting role in the orchestra, but these three viola players bring the instrument into the spotlight. Join Host Liz Lyon as we talk about how these musicians found their way to the viola. Episode 90 playlist Steve Riskind Kim Kashkashian Kim Kashkashian: In Nomine  — Along with being a successful viola player, Kashkashian also teaches the instrument. She also founded Music for Food, a musician-led hunger relief initiative that has presented hundreds of artists in concert and has created more than one and a half million free meals for people in need.LISTEN - Gyorgy Kurtag: In Nomine Gyorgy Kurtag: In Nomine by Barrett Artists Nokuthula Ngwenyama Nokuthula Ngwenyama: Some Stuff - Ngwenyama became well-known when she won the Primrose International Viola Competition in 1993 and the Young Concert Artists International Auditions in 1994. She is not just a violist but also a composer, a teacher and a leader in the world of music. This is a piece she composed.LISTEN - Nokuthula Nngwenyama: Some Stuff Nokuthula Ngwenyama: Some Stuff by Jiyang Chen Matthew Lipman Matthew Lipman: Fuga Libre — Lipman is new to the music world but has already made a name for himself performing with orchestras around the world. He released his first album in 2015. This is one of the pieces from that album.LISTEN - Garth Knox: Fuga Libre Garth Knox: Fuga Libre by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

The viola plays an important role in the string section of orchestras, and it has a unique, rich sound and history. What does the viola sound like? Join host Liz Lyon and listen to beautiful viola music on this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 89 playlist Michel Corrette: Viola da Bracchio Sonata - III. Minuetto — This piece features one of the earliest types of viola, the viola da barcchio. It was played just like a modern viola. Michel Corrette plays the viola de bracchio on this recording. LISTEN — Michel Corrette: Viola da Bracchio Sonata - III. Minuetto Michel Corrette: Viola da Bracchio Sonata - III. Minuetto by Rebecca Clarke: Viola Sonata — Rebecca Clarke's Viola Sonata is by far the best-known of her works. She even submitted it for a competition and tied for first place. Marina Thibeault plays the viola in this recording. LISTEN — Rebecca Clarke: Viola Sonata Rebecca Clarke: Viola Sonata by William Walton: Viola Concerto — The viola most often plays the midtones in supporting the orchestra. However, there are a lot of pieces written that feature the viola as a solo, like this piece. Yuri Bashmet plays the viola in this recording. LISTEN — William Walton: Viola Concerto William Walton: Viola Concerto by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

The saxophone is a unique instrument that has found itself played within classical to jazz music genres. Join host Liz Lyon as we explore the history of the saxophone and listen to examples of where the instrument shines. Episode 87 playlist Hector Berlioz: Chant Sacré — Hector Berlioz wrote this piece originally in 1829. In 1844, he arranged it for different groupings of instruments. One arrangement was for wind ensemble, which included two clarinets and four “saxhorns,” which we know today as the saxophone.LISTEN — Hector Berlioz: Chant Sacré Hector Berlioz: Chant Sacré by Jacques Ibert: Concerto da Camera, Movement III — This concerto in its entirety has a large range of notes and at times requires the musician to play the saxophone's highest notes.LISTEN — Jacques Ibert: Concerto da Camera, Movement III Jacques Ibert: Concerto da Camera, Movement III by John Adams: Saxophone Concerto — John Adams' father played the alto sax in swing bands in the 1930s. Adams said this early exposure to jazzy saxophone playing was inspiration for this piece.LISTEN — John Adams: Saxophone Concerto John Adams: Saxophone Concerto by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

What do you do when you are stressed, mad or sad? Do you go for a run to pound your feet on the ground, or maybe you pick up a paintbrush or an instrument? Join host Liz Lyon as we explore ways musicians have used tough moments in their lives to create pieces of music that helped them to feel better. Maybe this music can help you feel better, too. Episode 86 playlist Garreth Brooke and Anna Salzmann: Healing — Anna Salzmann is a visual artist who has partnered with composer and musician Garreth Brooke to present a musical and visual piece of art called Healing, which they hope can help people explore the emotional process of healing.LISTEN — Garreth Brooke and Anna Salzmann: Healing Garreth Brooke and Anna Salzmann: Healing by Johann Sebastian Bach: Partita in D minor for Solo Violin — Violinist Francisco Fullana had always found comfort in Bach's music. He practiced music on his violin to help him heal while he was recovering from a shoulder injury. He also found comfort in the music by Bach during his time in isolation during the COVID pandemic.LISTEN — Johann Sebastian Bach: Partita in D minor for Solo Violin J.S. Bach: D minor Partita for Solo Violin by Joshua McGhee: Let God Bring Tomorrow — Joshua McGhee is a talented multi-instrumentalist, meaning he plays more than one instrument. He has been commissioned to write pieces of music in response to some tragic events. Let God Bring Tomorrow was written in response to a mass shooting.LISTEN — Joshua McGhee: Let God Bring Tomorrow Joshua McGhee: Let God Bring Tomorrow by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

This time of year can bring a lot of interesting storms. Join host Liz Lyon as we use our imagination to picture thunderstorms while discovering classical music that was inspired by the rain, wind and rumbles of these storms. Episode 84 playlist Eric Whitacre: Cloudburst — Handbells, a thunder sheet, bass drum, suspended cymbal, wind chimes and piano all accompany an eight-part choir. The added claps, snaps and thick smacks by the singers help bring a thunderstorm to life through song.LISTEN — Eric Whitacre: Cloudburst  Eric Whitacre: Cloudburst by Ludwig Van Beethoven: Pastoral Symphony — This was one of only two symphonies that Beethoven named. Using your imagination, can you recognize what parts of a thunderstorm the instruments mimic?LISTEN — Ludwig Van Beethoven: Pastoral Symphony Ludwig Van Beethoven: Pastoral Symphony by Michael Kamen: The Eye of the Storm — American composer Michael Kamen was well known for his scores to many movies you might know, including The Iron Giant, X-Men, The Avengers and 101 Dalmatians. This piece is from The Iron Giant and helps to set the mood for an unknown object crashing through Earth's atmosphere in the middle of a storm at sea.LISTEN — Michael Kamen: The Eye of the Storm Michael Kamen: The Eye of the Storm by Ferde Grofé: Grand Canyon Suite - Cloudburst — The Grand Canyon Suite includes five movements that paint a specific scene that is typical of the Grand Canyon. The movements are “Sunrise,” “Painted Desert,” “On the Trail” and “Sunset,” with the fifth and final movement, “Cloudburst,” portraying a storm in the Grand Canyon.LISTEN — Ferde Grofé: Grand Canyon Suite, 5. Cloudburst Ferde Grofé: Grand Canyon Suite, 5. Cloudburst by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Part 2 of a two-part episode: Video game music has evolved over time from simple 8-bit tones to classical-music masterpieces. Join host Liz Lyon as we listen to some video-game compositions that have made a name for themselves in the world of classical music. Episode 83 playlist Martin O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori: Halo Theme — For the theme from Halo, composer Martin O'Donnell was inspired by the Beatles' song “Yesterday.” This particular piece was arranged by composer and sound designer Pascal Michael Stiefel.LISTEN — Martin O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori: Halo Theme Martin O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori: Halo Theme by Koji Kondo: The Legend of Zelda Theme — This song appears in every game in The Legend of Zelda series in one way or another. Either as the main theme, mixed in with a different piece of music or through brief cameo appearances in certain parts of the game. LISTEN — Koji Kondo: The Legend of Zelda Theme Koji Kondo: The Legend of Zelda Theme by Austin Wintory: Journey, I Was Born for This — This is the final track of the official Journey soundtrack, which plays over the ending credits of the game. The lyrics are written in five languages, all of which were borrowed from various historical documents and works of poetry. The title, “I Was Born for This,” is a translation of a quote attributed to Joan of Arc.LISTEN — Austin Wintory: Journey, I Was Born For This Austin Wintory: Journey, I Was Born For This by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

What sort of relationship do video games and classical music share? Join host Liz Lyon for the first part of our exploration of video-game music and how it has developed a deep relationship with classical music. Part 2 will be posted April 30. Episode 82 playlist Koji Kondo: Super Mario Brothers Theme — This was originally composed for the 1985 Nintendo Entertainment System video game Super Mario Brothers. Sound designer Koji Kondo says he found this piece to be the most difficult to compose. This version of the theme is performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.LISTEN — Koji Kondo: Super Mario Brothers Theme Koji Kondo: Super Mario Brothers Theme by Yoko Shimomura: Kingdom Hearts, Hikari — Yoko Shimomura is a Japanese composer and pianist. She has written for video games such as the Mario & Luigi series as well as Final Fantasy XV, but she is best known for writing the music for the video game Kingdom Hearts. Here is a popular piece from that game performed by the New Japanese Philharmonic Orchestra.LISTEN — Yoko Shimomura: Kingdom Hearts, Hikari Yoko Shimomura: Kingdom Hearts, Hikari by Claude Debussy: Claire de Lune — Video-game music is often used to help set the mood and provide insight into the specific game. Those who know the game The Evil Within, a game for older teens and adults, also know that when they hear Claire de Lune, by Claude Debussy, within the game, safety is nearby.LISTEN — Claude Debussy: Claire de Lune Claude Debussy: Claire de Lune by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Nobuo Uematsu composed music for the Final Fantasy video-game series. The music has become so popular that orchestras have performed it on tour. Uematsu has never had a formal musical education, but he was passionate and persistent, and now his music is legendary. Episode 81 playlist Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy, Main Theme — As Uematsu was seeking out work as a composer, a friend asked him to help her write music for video games. Final Fantasy was one of the first games he worked on. This is the main theme of the game.LISTEN — Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy, Main Theme Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy, Main Theme by Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy VII, One-Winged Angel — When Uematsu wrote music for Final Fantasy VII, he got to work with an orchestra and a choir for the first time. The results were amazing. Here is one of his most popular pieces from Final Fantasy VII.LISTEN — Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy VII, One-Winged Angel Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy VII, One Winged Angel by Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy VII, Don't Be Afraid — “Distant Worlds” is a concert tour performed by an orchestra, choir, and vocal and instrumental soloists. The concerts are unique multimedia experiences, with Final Fantasy video game presentations projected onto giant screens throughout the concert. Here is a piece that has been performed on the tour.LISTEN — Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy VII, Don't Be Afraid Nobuo Uematsu: Final Fantasy VII, Don't Be Afraid by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

There is a strange instrument that was once believed to have magical powers. Join host Liz Lyon as we learn a little about the history of the glass armonica and listen to music composed for this unique instrument. Episode 80 Glass Armonica Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Adagio for Glass Armonica — In the last year of Mozart's life, he composed this piece for the glass armonica, which has been referred to as one of unearthly beauty.LISTEN — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Adagio for Glass Armonica Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Adagio for Glass Armonica by Johann Abraham Peter Schulz: Largo — There were many rumors surrounding the glass armonica. In Germany, some towns actually banned the instrument. Here is a piece written for it by German composer Johann Abraham Peter Schulz.LISTEN — Johann Abraham Peter Schulz: Largo Johann Abraham Peter Schulz: Largo by James Horner: Spock — The glass armonica also is sometimes referred to as the bowl organ. It produces ethereal sounds and when paired with the harp, composer James Horner thought it created the perfect theme for Spock in the Star Trek movie The Wrath of Khan.LISTEN — James Horner: Spock James Horner: Spock by Carter Burwell: The Glass Armonica — Carter Burwell is best known for his work as a film composer. He wrote this piece for the glass armonica to accompany the movie Mr. Holmes, which portrays the famous literary detective Sherlock Holmes in his old age.LISTEN — Carter Burwell: The Glass Armonica Carter Burwell: The Glass Armonica by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Classical music is often thought of as strict and serious, but throughout history composers each had their own sense of humor that they would let shine through in some of their pieces. Join host Liz Lyon and producer Melanie Renate as they share laughter and comedy through classical music. Episode 79 playlist Joseph Haydn: Surprise Symphony — Haydn was known to include musical jokes in his music. In the second movement of his Surprise Symphony, he wrote in loud chords within the soft dynamics of the piece. It brings surprising energy to an otherwise mellow piece. LISTEN — Joseph Haydn: Surprise Symphony Joseph Haydn: Surprise Symphony by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: A Musical Joke — Mozart was known to have a varied sense of humor. He played pranks on people and would often write jokes into his music. Some musicologists argue this piece was either written to parody the work of less-educated musicians or to mock those whom he felt followed the strict concepts of conventional classical music too closely.LISTEN — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: A Musical Joke Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: A Musical Joke by Ludwig van Beethoven: Rage Over a Lost Penny — As the story goes, one night Beethoven's neighbors overheard him arguing with his housekeeper about a lost (or stolen) gold penny. This piece was composed around that time and became part of the legend of Beethoven's bad moods.LISTEN — Ludwig van Beethoven: Rage Over a Lost Penny Ludwig van Beethoven: Rage Over a Lost Penny by PDQ Bach: My Bonnie Lass She Smelleth — PDQ Bach, otherwise known as Peter Schickele, is educated in musical composition. He took early comedic inspiration from musician Spike Jones, who specialized in spoof arrangements in the 1940s.LISTEN — PDQ Bach: My Bonnie Lass She Smelleth PDQ Bach: My Bonnie Lass She Smelleth by Leroy Anderson with Martin Breinschmid: The Typewriter — This piece features a typewriter as a percussion instrument. Only professional drummers can manage the typewriter part in this piece because of how fast the typing speed is.LISTEN — Leroy Anderson with Martin Breinschmid: The Typewriter Leroy Anderson Martin Breinschmid: The Typewriter by G. Berthold: Duetto Buffo di Due Gatti — This piece is often performed as a comical encore at the end of a concert performance. The singers repeat the word, “meow,” and might even occasionally hiss during the piece.LISTEN — G. Berthold: Duetto Buffo di Due Gatti G. Berthold: Duetto Buffo di Due Gatti by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Women have played a major role in classical music history, but because they were women often their work was lost or simply overlooked. Join host Liz Lyon and producer Melanie Renate as we discuss a few of the countless women who have made a large impact in classical music. Episode 77 playlist Hélène de Montgeroult: Thème Varié dans le genre moderne — Hélène de Montgeroult plays a large role in classical music history. She was the first female professor at the Paris Conservatoire in 1795. She was a pianist and composer and paved the way for other composers like Ludwig Van Beethoven and Clara Schumann.LISTEN — Hélène de Monteroult: Thème Varié dans le genre moderne Hélène de Montgeroult: Thème Varié dans le genre moderne by Elfrida Andrée: Symphony No. 2 — Elfrida Andrée was a Swedish organist, composer and conductor. She was an activist in the Swedish women's movement and was the first woman to graduate as an organist. She was also the first woman in Sweden to become a cathedral organist and conduct a full orchestra.LISTEN — Elfrida Andrée: Symphony No. 2 Elfrida Andrée: Symphony No. 2 by Undine Smith Moore: Mother to Son — Undine Smith Moore is known as the Dean of Black Women Composers. She was the granddaughter of enslaved people and through a life filled with music, she became not only an accomplished composer but a renowned teacher. Most of her work is vocal compositions influenced by Black spirituals and folk music.LISTEN — Undine Smith Moore: Mother to Son Undine Smith Moore: Mother to Son by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

In music and in life, when someone makes a creative choice “in the moment” its called improvising. Join host Liz Lyon as we explore ways composers and musicians have played with improvising in their music. Episode 76 playlist Johann Sebastian Bach: Musical Offering Ricercar a 3 — Bach was well known for his improvising skill. This piece was composed through the use of improvisation and was based on a musical theme.LISTEN — Johann Sebastian Bach: Musical Offering Ricercar a 3 Johann Sebastian Bach: Musical Offering Ricercar a 3 by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Allegretto - Variation — Mozart was skilled at composing music on the spot. He would improvise pieces in public. For example, he closed the premiere of his Prague Symphony with a half-hour improvisation.LISTEN — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Allegretto - Variation Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Allegretto - Variation by Gabriela Montero: Improvisation No. 2 — Gabriela Montero is a Venezuelan pianist known best for her real-time improvisation of complex musical themes and pieces suggested by her audiences during live performances.LISTEN — Gabriela Montero: Improvisation No. 2 Gabriela Montero: Improvisation No. 2 by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Electric string instruments can give new energy to familiar classical pieces and also give familiar pop and rock songs a new classical-inspired twist. Join host Liz Lyon as she touches on the history of electric string instruments, and listen to some pieces performed on electric strings. Episode 75 playlist Stuff Smith: How High the Moon — Hezekiah Leroy Gordon Smith, better known as Stuff Smith, was an American jazz violinist credited as being the first performer to use electric amplification techniques on a violin.LISTEN — Stuff Smith: How High the Moon Stuff Smith: How High the Moon by John Adams: A New Day — Electric violin soloist Tracy Silverman refers to his type of instrumentation as “progressive string playing” — classical string playing that weaves in contemporary music genres like rock, jazz, and hip-hop. Here he is playing “A New Day,” by John Adams.LISTEN — John Adams: A New Day John Adams: A New Day by 2CELLOS: Eye of the Tiger — This cellist duo from Croatia are classically trained musicians who play instrumental arrangements of well-known pop and rock songs. They also play classical and film music and have even been featured on several TV series episodes.LISTEN — 2CELLOS: Eye of the Tiger 2CELLOS: Eye of the Tiger by Deborah Henson-Conant: Nightingale — Deborah Henson-Conant wrote this piece in memory of her mother's voice. “Nightingale” is her most-requested tune in concert. She often plays on an electric acoustic pedal harp, which can be used with an amplifier or played like a normal pedal harp. LISTEN — Deborah Henson-Conant: Nightingale Deborah Henson-Conant: Nightingale by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Working and collaborating together is a great way to build a friendship. Join two friends, host Liz Lyon and producer Melanie Renate, as they explore friendship in classical music. Episode 74 playlist Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Haydn Quartets — Not much is documented about their friendship, but what we do know is that Mozart and Franz Joseph Haydn enjoyed spending time together and that they respected and inspired one another.LISTEN — Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Haydn Quartets Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Haydn Quartets by Edward Elgar: Enigma Variations, Nimrod — The Enigma Variations are like sketches of some of Edward Elgar's friends. They describe not just their personality, but many of these variations also act as a musical reference to the way a friend laughed or spoke, or references a special moment they shared.LISTEN — Edward Elgar: Enigma Variations, Nimrod Edward Elgar: Enigma Variations, Nimrod by Yehudi Menuhin and Ravi Shankar: Prabhati — These two musicians were friends for 14 years before they decided to record an album together. This is a piece off their album, West Meets East.LISTEN — Yehudi Menuhin & Ravi Shankar: Prabhati Yehudi Menuhin & Ravi Shankar: Prabhati by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Do you have a favorite band or musician? Join host Liz Lyon as we listen to a variety of pieces from one of her favorite groups, the Harlem Quartet Episode 73 playlist The Harlem Quartet: Take the A Train — The Harlem Quartet is a string quartet, meaning there are four musicians who all play string instruments. This piece is the title track from their first album.LISTEN — The Harlem Quartet: Take the A Train The Harlem Quartet: Take the A Train by The Harlem Quartet: Mozart Goes Dancing — The Harlem Quartet teamed up with a jazz piano legend Gary Burton on this Grammy-winning piece.LISTEN — The Harlem Quartet: Mozart Goes Dancing The Harlem Quartet: Mozart Goes Dancing by The Harlem Quartet: Graceful Ghost — The album Cross Pollination was released in July 2020. This is one of the movements from a piece on that album.LISTEN — The Harlem Quartet: Graceful Ghost The Harlem Quartet: Graceful Ghost by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Did you know that ensembles can be different sizes? Join host Liz Lyon as we listen to music performed by a variety of ensembles of differing sizes. Episode 71 playlist William Grant Still: Symphony No. 2 (“Song of a New Race”) — Orchestras are usually large ensembles with lots of musicians. The Detriot Symphony Orchestra performs with close to 100 musicians. Here they perform a piece by William Grant Still.LISTEN — William Grant Still: Symphony No. 2 (“Song of a New Race”) William Grant Still: Symphony No. 2 by Kerry Muzzey: Pulling a Thread — Modern classical and film composer Kerry Muzzey released an album in 2014 called The Architect. The Chamber Orchestra of London recorded this piece under the direction of conductor Andrew Skeet.LISTEN — Kerry Muzzey: Pulling a Thread Kerry Muzzey: Pulling a Thread by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Humoresque — The New York Times once said, “The Catalyst Quartet is beautiful to watch, like a family in lively conversation at the dinner table: anticipating, interrupting, changing subjects.” Here the musicians perform a piece by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor.LISTEN — Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Humoresque Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Humoresque by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Home can be many things. It can be a person or place that brings us comfort or offers inspiration. Join host Liz Lyon as we listen to pieces of music inspired by the people and places different musicians consider to be their home. Episode 70 playlist Itzhak Perlman: A Yiddishe Mamme — Violinist Itzhak Perlman's mother was his support system when he became famous at a young age. As an adult, he recorded music that reminded him of his mother and his Jewish roots.LISTEN — Itzhak Perlman: A Yiddishe Mamme Itzhak Perlman: A Yiddishe Mamme by Liu Tieshan: Dance of the Yao People — Chinese professor Liu Tieshan was inspired by the melodies of his home country. He collaborated with composer Mau Yuan to write this piece, which was inspired by traditional festival music of the Yao People of southern and southwest China.LISTEN — Liu Tieshan: Dance of the Yao People Liu Tieshan: Dance of The Yao People by Xavier Dubois Foley: Shelter Island — Violinist Randall Goosby and Xavier Foley play together in this piece, which Foley composed to celebrate their friendship and the place that they met.LISTEN — Xavier Dubois Foley: Shelter Island Xavier Dubois Foley: Shelter Island by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Have you ever seen a piece of clothing or a piece of art that inspired you to try to make your own version? Composers do this regularly with pieces of music. Join host Liz Lyon as we explore variations and arrangements. Episode 69 playlist Pablo De Sarasate: Carmen Fantasy — Pablo De Sarasate loved operas and would sometimes pick a favorite opera melody and turn it into a piece he could play on his violin. This piece is based on a famous opera, Carmen.LISTEN — Pablo De Sarasate: Carmen Fantasy Pablo De Sarasate: Carmen Fantasy by Clara Schumann: Variations on a Theme — Famous composer Clara Schumann was married to another famous composer, Robert Schumann. Sometimes she would write her own version of a piece of music that her husband composed. That's what she did here.LISTEN — Clara Schumann: Variations on a Theme Clara Schumann: Variations on a Theme by Maurice Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition — Originally, this piece was written by Modest Mussorgsky for solo piano, but Maurice Ravel rearranged the piece to adapt it for an orchestra. This is a frequently performed variation.LISTEN — Maurice Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition Maurice Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

When Xuefei Yang was a young girl, she became the first Chinese guitarist to enter an international competition. It was one of many firsts for her as she paved the way for future female guitarists from China. Episode 68 playlist Xuefei Yang: Romance de Amor — This is a piece off of Xuefei Yang's debut album.LISTEN — Xuefei Yang: Romance de Amor Xuefei Yang: Romance de Amor by Xuefei Yang: Shuo Chang — This piece was written by Chinese composer Chen Yi. Although they were famous for writing music for various instruments, this was the first time they composed a piece for the guitar.LISTEN — Xuefei Yang: Shuo Chang Xuefei Yang: Shuo Chang by Xuefei Yang: Flower Drum — This is from an album released in August 2020 and dedicated to the music of Yang's home country, China.LISTEN — Xuefei Yang: Flower Drum Xuefei Yang: Flower Drum by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

The modern guitar is a popular instrument, but did you know there are many different types of guitars? Join host Liz Lyon as we take a trip around the world to listen to the sounds of different guitars throughout history. Episode 67 playlist Issam Rafea and Gao Hong: From Our World to Yours — This piece showcases the oud, which is a pear-shaped, stringed instrument popular in countries such as Egypt, Syria, Armenia and Turkey.LISTEN — Issam Rafea and Gao Hong: From Our World to Yours Issam Rafea and Gao Hong: From Our World to Yours by John Dowland: Mrs. Winter's Jump — The lute was popular in Europe in the 1500 and 1600s. There are different variations of the lute. There are lutes of different sizes and with different numbers of strings.LISTEN — John Dowland: Mrs. Winter's Jump John Dowland: Mrs. Winter's Jump by Robert de Visee: La Muzette — The Baroque Guitar was popular in Spain. Everyone, from people in the streets up to King Charles II, was fond of this guitar. You can hear it featured in this piece.LISTEN — Robert de Visee: La Muzette Robert de Visee: La Muzette by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

The month of December is packed full of different holidays and we all celebrate them in different ways. Music can unite us all in celebration. Bells are a common sound throughout the festive season. Join host, Liz Lyon as we explore music that features different types of bells. Episode 66 playlist Sonos Handbell Ensemble: Silent Night — The oldest existing hand bells are found in China from 1600 B.C.LISTEN — Sonos Handbell Ensemble: Silent Night Sonos Handbell Ensemble: Silent Night by Boston Pops Orchestra: Sleigh Ride — Sleigh bells, also known as jingle bells, were originally fastened to horses to warn pedestrians of an approaching sleigh.LISTEN — Boston Pops Orchestra: Sleigh Ride Boston Pops Orchestra: Sleigh Ride by Dale Warland Singers: Carol of The Bells — Originally based on traditional Ukrainian folk chants in celebration of the coming new year. This melody was rearranged for orchestra and new lyrics were written which centered on the theme of bells.LISTEN — Dale Warland Singers: Carol of The Bells Dale Warland Singers: Carol of The Bells by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Composer Eric Whitacre is well known for the choral pieces he writes and their distinctive sound. Join host, Liz Lyon as she explores some of his music in this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 65 playlist Eric Whitacre: Water Night — One of his earliest works, written in 1995. The text is from Octavio Paz's poem, “Agua Nocturna”.LISTEN — Eric Whitacre: Water Night Eric Whitacre: Water Night by Eric Whitacre: Sleep — The setting for this choral composition is a poem by Robert Frost, “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening”. The theme of the lyrics, sleep, was based on the last stanza of this poem, “And miles to go before I sleep.”LISTEN — Eric Whitacre: Sleep Eric Whitacre: Sleep by Eric Whitacre: When David Heard — The text for this piece is one single, and sorrowful sentence accompanied by purposeful and dramatic silence.LISTEN — Eric Whitacre: When David Heard Eric Whitacre: When David Heard by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Let us know your thoughts You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

The human voice can add something special to music that other instruments simply can not do. Listen to some classical music examples that will explain why the human voice is so unique. Episode 63 playlist Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov: The Flight of the Bumblebee — Singer Bobby McFerrin teams up with cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Do you think McFerrin sounds more like a bumblebee or more like a cello?LISTEN — Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov: The Flight of the Bumblebee Nikolai Rimsky Korsakov: The Flight of the Bumblebee by The King's Singers: Horizons — The human voice is a great instrument for storytelling and can help paint a picture through words.LISTEN — The King's Singers: Horizons The King's Singers: Horizons by Eriks Esenvalds: Only in Sleep — When multiple people sing together, such as in ensembles or choirs, it can help elicit emotions.LISTEN — Eriks Esenvalds: Only in Sleep Eriks Esenvalds: Only in Sleep by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Adventures where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Which classical pieces go with big things that happen in your life such as moving or living with quarantines? Join host Liz Lyon and producer Melanie Renate and listen to music that deals with change. Episode 54 playlist Claude Debussy: Arabesque No. 1 — Debussy moved when he was a child to live with his aunt, who discovered his musical talent. This is one of his popular pieces. Debussy - Arabesque No. 1 by Ludwig Van Beethoven: Ode to Joy — Beethoven experienced change when he lost his hearing, but that didn't stop him from creating great music like this well-known selection from his Symphony No. 9. Ludwig Van Beethoven: "Ode to Joy" from Symphony No. 9 by MPR Philip Glass: Etude No. 6 — Pianist Simone Dinnerstein had to cope with change during quarantine and found a new way to record music, including this performance. Philip Glass - Etude No. 6 by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Tell us what you think You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Which classical pieces excite you the most? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to the beautiful piano music of Chopin. Episode 53 playlist Frederic Chopin: Polonaise No. 6 (Heroic) — This style of the polonaise is common in piano music from Poland. Fredrich Chopin: Polonaise No. 6 (Heroic) by Frederic Chopin: Raindrop Prelude - The lower-sounding note that repeats throughout the prelude is the constant rainfall. Frederic Chopin: Prelude No. 15 (Raindrop) by Frederic Chopin: The “Little Dog” Waltz — Is this what your dog sounds like when they are running around the house or yard? Frederic Chopin: Waltz No. 6 (Little Dog Waltz) by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Which classical pieces excite you the most? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to different duets sung and performed in classical music. Episode 52 playlist Leo Delibes: Flower Duet from Lakme — This duet is from a French opera. You hear two ladies singing by the river as they gather flowers. Leo Delibes: Flower Duet from Lakme by Franz Schubert: Fantasia in F minor - Sometimes you will hear a piece of classical music written for “four hands.” That means that the composer was writing a piece for two players, or as a duet. Franz Schubert: Fantasia in F minor by Joseph Lauber: Pavane from Four Medieval Dances — In early music forms, such as Renaissance music, duets were written specifically to teach a student how to play music with another singer or instrument. Joseph Lauber: Pavane from Four Medieval Dances by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Which classical pieces excite you the most? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to different pieces inspired by carnivals and celebrations. Episode 52 playlist Jean Baptiste Arban: Carnival Overture — This piece was inspired by a noisy and colorful carnival in Venice, Italy. Jean Baptiste Arban: Carnival Overture by Arturo Marquez: Conga del Fuego Nuevo - This piece was written for a carnival in Mexico and features the famous conga line dance theme. Arturo Marquez: Conge del Fuego Nuevo by Camille Saint-Saens: Carnival of the Animals - Finale — This is a suite of music based on different animals that you might see at a carnival or parade. Camille Saint-Saens: Carnival of the Animals - Finale by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Which classical piece paints a picture in your mind? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to different pieces inspired by paintings on this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 50 playlist Modest Mussorgsky: The Great Gate of Kiev — This piece was inspired by a painting of a great big gate, opening to a city in Russia. Modest Mussorgsky: The Great Gate of Kiev by Ralph Vaughan Williams: In the Fen Country - This piece is like a poem, using the music to describe the beautiful, wide open landscapes in England. Ralph Vaughan Williams: In the Fen Country by Sergei Rachmaninoff: The Isle of the Dead — This piece was based on a painting of an abandoned island surrounded by dark waters. Sergei Rachmaninoff: Isle of the Dead by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

What is a symphony? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to different sections of a symphony on this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 49 playlist Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: 1st movement from Symphony No. 40 — The first movement of a symphony is usually fast, energizing and exciting. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Symphony No 40 - I by Ludwig van Beethoven: 2nd movement from Symphony No. 7 - The second movement is usually slow and can feel like a sadder or sweeter part of the story. Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No 7 - II by Dmitri Shostakovich: Finale from Symphony No. 5 — The finale is a really fun, loud and exiting movement that finishes the symphony and allows the piece to show off its best qualities. Dmitri Shostakovich: Finale from the Symphony No. 5 by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Have you heard any music by the famous pianist Amy Beach? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to Beach's original compositions on this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 48 playlist Amy Beach: Ballade — This is a popular piano piece by the composer. Amy Beach: Ballade by Amy Beach: 2nd mvt from the Gaelic Symphony - This became the first symphony published by a woman in the United States. Amy Beach: Gaelic Symphony - 2nd mvt. by Amy Beach: 1st mvt from the Piano Concerto — Back in the day, you could have heard Beach perform this work of hers live. Amy Beach: Piano Concerto - 1st mvt. by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

What pieces of classical music include your favorite melodies? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to beautiful melodies and tunes on this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 46 playlist Ludwig van Beethoven: Fur Elise — You can hear the melody repeating a lot in this famous piano piece by Beethoven. Ludwig van Beethoven: Fur Elise by Georges Bizet: Habanera from Carmen — What instruments do you hear playing in this popular opera excerpt? Georges Bizet: Habanera from Carmen by Franz Schubert: Ave Maria — Where have you heard this melody by Schubert? Can you name it? Franz Schubert: Ave Maria by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Download Episode 45 What pieces of classical music include the mandolin? Join Melissa Dundis and listen to classical music played on the mandolin, on this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 45 playlist Antonio Vivaldi: Mandolin Concerto— The mandolin was popular in this kind of music, by baroque composer Antonio Vivaldi. Antonio Vivaldi: Mandolin Concerto by Bela Bartok: Romanian Folk Dances— Can you imagine dancing around to this classical/folk piece? Bela Bartok: Romanian Folk Dances by Edgar Meyer and Chris Thile: Why Only One — Here the mandolin is playing a duet with an upright bass. Edgar Meyer and Chris Thile: Why Only One by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Download Episode 44 What holidays are celebrated with fireworks? The New Year and of course, the Fourth of July. Join Melissa Dundis and listen to classical music inspired by fireworks on this episode of YourClassical Adventures. Episode 44 playlist Claude Debussy: Feux d'artifice— This piece was written to sound like a bunch of fireworks going off. Claude Debussy: Feux d'artifice by George Fredrich Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks — This piece was written for at the end of a war, to celebrate peace in London. George Fredrich Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks by Peter Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture - Finale — This piece features a cannon balls that kind of sound like fireworks. Peter Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Download Episode 43 This is one of the most important composers in England during the 20th century. Episode 43 playlist Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha Overture— This piece was inspired by a poem called written by the man he was named after. It's about the adventures of two fictional characters, a native American warrior named Hiawatha. Samuel Coleridge Taylor: The Song of Hiawatha Overture by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Dance No. 1 from Four African Dances — This is music he based off old African dance tunes and spirituals. It's a dance from his Four African Dances. Samuel Coleridge Taylor: Dance No. 1 from Four African Dances by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Ballade in A minor — This was one of his first pieces to give him international fame, and was what made people call him a “genius”. Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Ballade in A minor by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

Download Episode 42 The Bassoon is a large, low sounding instrument. It's so big that players must sit down while playing. Episode 42 playlist Camille Saint-Saens: Bassoon Sonata— Like the other woodwinds, the body of the instrument like a long tube. So long, that the player must sit down when performing.Listen to the bassoon and piano play this sonata by Camille Saint-Saëns. How would you describe the sound? Camille Saint-Saens: Bassoon Sonata by Gordon Jacob: Afternoon with a Dinosaur — What do you think the basoon and the music sound like in this piece? Gordon Jacob: Afternoon with a Dinosaur by Paul Dukas: The Sorcerer's Apprentice — This is one of the most famous pieces to feature the bassoon. Have you seen the Disney classic, Fantasia? Paul Dukas: The Sorcerer's Apprentice by YourClassical Adventures is available in your favorite podcast portal. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? Submit your feedback https://www.classicalmpr.org/story/2021/04/17/classical-kids-corner You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.