Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, which he titled Quasi una Fantasia (Almost a Fantasy), is filled with discord — which is exactly what makes it so effective as a piece of music that can help you relax.


Tension and release: The strange magic of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata

A few things to know about Juilliard-trained violinist the Great Kat: she's declared herself God, as well as the reincarnation of Beethoven. She favors leather, fishnets, and other dominatrix-inspired garb. She speaks about herself in the third person.


Interview: The Great Kat, violin-guitar virtuoso and self-styled Beethoven reincarnate

"Once you're singing," says Como Park Senior High School student Esther Vang, "you can't stop."


To sing and to lead: St. Paul choral program gives students the chance to conduct

The University Singers are taking their music on tour from the Twin Cities to Duluth, Hibbing, and Pine City. They'll be singing - and listening, too.


University Singers hit the road, building bridges of song with northern Minnesota

You don't have to go to a resort or a spa to relax: classical music can help you take the stress out of everyday chores and routines. Here are ten times when music by your favorite composer can help you breathe a little more easily.


Ten times when classical music can help you relax

Oboist Blair Tindall wrote a controversial memoir, "Mozart in the Jungle," which has now been adapted into a hit series on Amazon Prime.


Mozart in the Jungle: Blair Tindall talks about her controversial memoir, and the new Amazon series

Deo Cantamus are one of five choral ensembles who have co-commissioned a new version of Dan Forrest's "Te Deum." The regional premiere will be performed on March 28.


Te Deum: Deo Cantamus to present regional premiere of new Dan Forrest work

What did Robert Rauschenberg have in common with John Cage? What ideas did Debussy and Monet share?


Art and music: McNally Smith lecture series to explore the connections

Instrument insurance policies can be complicated, and they aren't always cheap, but many musicians have taken steps to guarantee that they'll be protected in case of disaster.


Better safe than sorry: Classical musicians navigate the complicated world of instrument insurance

High school sophomore Collin Jinks has come a long way since he first started playing by ear on an electric keyboard.


Sheila Regan

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