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Classical Music News

From our friends at NPR, PRX, and PBS Member Stations from around the country

Rainn Wilson

Rainn Wilson: All About That Bassoon

Friday, August 11, 2017

Nerdette host Greta Johnsen reveals that she has a secret nerdery: she used to play the bassoon. So this week, in one, grand, bassoon-filled extravaganza, Johnsen and co-host Tricia Bobeda bring back the bassoon. First, they talk with culture writer and bassoonist Eileen Reynolds about the history of the bassoon. Then, they call up the self-proclaimed “Bassoon King” Rainn Wilson. Plus, Chicago Philharmonic Principal Bassoonist John Gaudette plays a familiar tune.

Maria Callas: vocal chameleon, gossip-column staple and influential opera icon.

Maria Callas: vocal chameleon, gossip-column staple and influential opera icon.

Forebears: Maria Callas, The Divine Voice Of Classical Music

Monday, August 7, 2017

Known as La Divina — "The Divine One" — Callas was an indelible presence whose artistry made her the icon and envy of performers across many genres.

Byron Janis, photographed in 1968 at the Chateau Thoiry, where he discovered two rare Chopin manuscripts, one of which sits on the antique piano.

Byron Janis, photographed in 1968 at the Chateau Thoiry, where he discovered two rare Chopin manuscripts, one of which sits on the antique piano.

Chopin In The Shadows: The Supernatural Adventures Of Byron Janis

Saturday, August 5, 2017

The famous 89-year-old pianist has spent a lifetime perfecting Chopin. Along the way, the composer has reached out from the great beyond in a few startling ways.

Rediscovering The Music Of Polish Composer Szymon Laks

Szymon Laks, circa 1965. (Courtesy)

Rediscovering The Music Of Polish Composer Szymon Laks

Thursday, August 3, 2017

Laks was sent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp during World War II, and became a conductor for the Auschwitz orchestra.

Edward Parks, who plays Steve Jobs, and the Santa Fe Opera Chorus in The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs.

Edward Parks, who plays Steve Jobs, and the Santa Fe Opera Chorus in <em>The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs.</em>

Sing Different: Steve Jobs' Life Becomes An Opera

Saturday, July 22, 2017

The Apple co-founder's complicated story is the subject of The (R)evolution Of Steve Jobs, by composer Mason Bates and librettist Mark Campbell. It premieres Saturday in Santa Fe.

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