Dear Friend,

Our Classical Breakdown podcast passed a big milestone of 100 episodes last week. Looking back, we are amazed at all the incredible stories behind the music told through the podcast. Behind every note we enjoy today is a merging of stories of people throughout history, with composers from centuries ago and performers today, a true living museum! Thanks to all of our listeners, we explored the lives and music of beloved composers, picked the brains of world-class musicians, and found out how our favorite pieces came to be. But these 100 episodes are chipping away at just the tip of the iceberg. We are excited for the next 100 episodes to continue to breakdown this exciting and living world of classical music.

We hope you'll join us on this journey,
Jim Allison
Program Director

Listen to the 100th episode here!

John Banther on producing

100 episodes...

After doing the research, recording, and producing 100 podcast episodes on classical music, there's bound to be some revelations. John Banther opens up about what he's learned, what stands out, and what he looks forward to!

Be a part of the next 100 episodes!

We want to hear from you! What topics would you like covered in the next 100 episodes of Classical Breakdown? Check out our poll below to vote. And as always, we welcome questions and comments at [email protected]!

Take the Poll Here!

Haydn the Comedian?

One of the "best of" moments highlighted in the 100th episode of Classical Breakdown is the telling of how Haydn composed music for clocks. If you're familiar with his "Surprise" symphony, you may know that this towering figure who composed 100+ symphonies and helped establish the string quartet genre knew how to have a good laugh. Evan Keely explores more of Haydn's humor and whimsy.

Read Here

Up-close and personal with

musicians of the NSO

The true stars of the NSO are its musicians. We are beyond lucky to have an orchestra made up of world-class artists in our backyard. We had the privilege of sitting down with principal members of the NSO over the last 100 podcast episodes. They tell compelling stories of their own journey and give us an insight into the quirks and insider-knowledge of their instruments. Nicole Lacroix shares her favorite moments with the musicians.

Read Here

Episode Listing

Did you hear a highlight or a story you loved on the 100th episode of Classical Breakdown? You can find the full episode here!

Find The Episodes Here

Opera Matinee

Dead Man Walking by Jake Heggie is based on activist Sister Helen Prejean’s bestselling eponymous memoir of justice and forgiveness. It takes us into the intimate and often unseen spaces where the inner workings of the criminal justice system play out. On January 20 at 1PM.

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Choral Showcase

Claudio Monteverdi was a pivotal figure who bridged the gap between the Renaissance and Baroque eras. On January 21, Bill Bukowski showcases a new recording of Monteverdi's much-loved Vespers of 1610, the Vespro della Beata Vergine, with the electrifying Pygmalion Ensemble, directed by Raphaël Pichon.

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Front Row Washington

Join John Banther for a concert that features unique bass clarinet arrangements, music that reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic, and a 19th-century staple of the clarinet repertoire.

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From the Top

We hear a stunning Wieniawski Polonaise played by a 13-year-old violinist, meet a young pianist who shares a special tip she got from piano superstar Lang Lang, and more on January 21 at 6PM!

Learn More

Support WETA Classical

"I have been listening to WETA for many years--while driving to and from work, and now that I'm retired. Having this music on during the day makes me feel better, whether a fast or slow piece! My favorite composer is Rachmaninoff."

Prescilla, from Annapolis

Keep the Music Alive