Bonus episode: Ballet music from 2 operas by Verdi!

Bonus episode: Ballet music from 2 operas by Verdi!

Author: WETA Classical January 13, 2026 Duration: 17:48
Different audiences have different tastes, and you can't always serve them the same dish. If Verdi wanted his grand operas to be staged in Paris, he needed to include ballet. In this bonus episode, we'll hear two ballet sections from two different operas, sometimes composed decades later.

Ever wondered what really goes into a symphony or what a composer was thinking when they wrote that haunting melody? Classical Breakdown is for anyone who loves the sound of an orchestra but craves a deeper connection to the music. Host John Banther, from the studios of WETA Classical in Washington, D.C., doesn't just play the great works; he opens them up, piece by piece. Each episode feels like a backstage pass, blending insightful interviews with musicians and experts alongside his own engaging analysis. You'll find yourself hearing familiar pieces in entirely new ways, discovering the stories, techniques, and historical contexts that bring the notes on the page to vivid life. This isn't a dry lecture, but a conversation about the passion and craft behind classical music. New installments of this insightful podcast arrive every other Tuesday, offering a regular dose of clarity and discovery. Whether you're a lifelong aficionado or just beginning to explore, Classical Breakdown provides the kind of rich, accessible understanding that makes every listening experience more meaningful.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Classical Breakdown
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