Good to Know

Antonin Dvorak’s ‘American Quartet’ has been recorded countless times, but Charles Loeffler’s octet had never been performed, let alone recorded. Plus, we spotlight the latest from violinist Janine Jansen and a debut from a chamber music collective associated with Carnegie Hall.

The moon, with its graceful glow, has captivated humanity for longer than we can even know. It has inspired countless myths, stories and meditative practices. Here’s a guide to harnessing the meditative qualities of the moon phases, complemented by soul-stirring music.

Recordings of the Month for May include Jeff Beal’s new album for mental health awareness, Alexandre Tharaud’s collaboration with a baseball team’s worth of pianists, a newly completed Beethoven cycle and the latest from All Classical Portland’s Recording Inclusivity Initiative.

Did you know that John Williams writes music that isn’t for movies? Plus, a young Chinese guitarist tackles one of the most beloved guitar concertos ever written, and two cellists offer evocative interpretations of new and rarely heard music in Recordings of the Month for April.

Conductor Francois-Xavier Roth and the ensemble Les Siecles redefine the use of period instruments, the Czech Philharmonic celebrates its homeland, and the incredible voice of Elīna Garanča highlight our recordings of the month for March.

What is the story behind Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ and why is it performed at both Christmas and Easter? Here’s everything you need to know about this enduring holiday masterpiece, including the best recordings.

Legendary pop star Carole King’s training in classical music shines through in ‘Beautiful,’ the musical story of her life that’s now playing at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. Find out more.

Everyone loves the classic musical ‘The Sound of Music,’ even if they won’t admit it. A new deluxe five-disc set lets listeners enjoy and understand the music beyond the familiar melodies, making every musical element from the film available for the first time.

The lilting music of the waltz has long been associated with ringing in the new year — and not just in classical music. Here’s why — along with a playlist for your New Year’s Eve party, including plenty of tunes by ‘Waltz King’ Johann Strauss Jr.

André 3000’s ‘New Black Sun,’ released 17 years after his previous album, has no lyrics — but it does have plenty of jazzy flute. He’s not the first popular artist to incorporate the instrument. Here are 10 more great flute champions in pop and rock music, besides André 3000.