Good to Know

Composer John Williams turns 93 on Feb. 8. To celebrate, enjoy an encore of a special Minnesota Orchestra concert in tribute to the iconic composer. And ‘Saturday Cinema’ host Lynne Warfel has compiled the Ultimate John Williams Playlist for your pleasure. Listen now!

This Black History Month, celebrate the history of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' and discover the roots of a song whose beauty and power has propelled it to prominence as the Black national anthem.  

Niccolo Paganini is celebrated as one of the best violin virtuosos of all time. With talent that unhuman comes the question: Did he sell his soul to the devil?

There’s more to composer Giacomo Puccini’s iconic ‘Nessun Dorma’ than meets the ear. Learn more about the context and famous performances of one of the best-known opera arias of all time.

We asked listeners to tell us their favorite chamber music pieces. Here are the top 20 vote-getters.

The history of Mozart’s Requiem adds to the work’s mystique. Discover the composer’s experience writing the piece, how it was finished after his death and more.

We asked listeners to share poems inspired by Ludovico Einaudi's 'Golden Butterflies.' Read their submissions while you listen to the piece.

The cymbal is an integral part of music across genres. But how did it become so fundamental to creating movement and rhythm? Read more about this exciting instrument.

Concert band is a large part of classical music, yet many composers don't get the recognition they deserve for contributing to the genre. Here are 10 band composers you should know — besides the March King, John Philip Sousa.

Does that carol sound familiar, but the words are different from the ones you’ve sung forever? Here’s why!