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.
Latest Episode
Bonus episode! A performance of a suite from the ballet Daphnis and Chloe by Maurice Ravel (09.09.2025)
Previous Episodes
- Maurice Ravel at 150: celebrating his life, music, and influence! 02.09.2025
- Recommended listening; 4 new albums to listen to this summer! 24.06.2025
- Mahler's Symphony No. 5, a story of uncertainty and triumph 10.06.2025
- Felix Mendelssohn: A prodigy, inventor, and visionary! 27.05.2025
- Verdi's Rigoletto: Unforgettable tunes, tragedy, and a new concept in opera 13.05.2025
- John Williams: a defining American composer that goes beyond the silver screen 29.04.2025
- Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5: a symphony of bravery, intrigue, and survival 15.04.2025
- An update on Florence Price! 10.04.2025
- The most difficult music for piano: Gaspard de la Nuit by Maurice Ravel 01.04.2025
- The Future is Female: Exploring Clarice Assad and the Boulanger Initiative with Laura Colgate 18.03.2025
- Ethel Smyth's Mass in D: A 19th century mass by an extraordinary woman! 04.03.2025
- Olly Wilson, an American composer that will change how you hear music! 18.02.2025
- Carlos Simon's Songs of Separation: An American song cycle set to poetry of Rumi 04.02.2025
- Lincoln Portrait: Aaron Copland's defense of Democracy 21.01.2025
- Chris Gekker tells us everything about the trumpet! 07.01.2025
- Your Guide to JS Bach's Cello Suites! 24.12.2024
- Aaron Copland: The Sound of America 10.12.2024
- Dora Pejačević's Symphony in F# minor; Croatia's very first symphony! 26.11.2024
- The Life and Music of Gioachino Rossini: An overnight success, foodie, and opera sensation 12.11.2024
- Beethoven’s iconic Violin Concerto: what to listen for and why it was an initial flop! 29.10.2024
