How do you feel about classical music?

When I’m doing tasks like cooking, exercising or cleaning.

When I’m reading or studying, for example.

When I’m relaxing, sleeping or just “hanging out.

When I’m paying attention solely to the music

When does listening to music bring you the most joy?

I attend a few shows a year, but it’s not a large part of my life.

I regularly attend live shows and can’t get enough of them.

Do you enjoy live music?

I know what I like and rarely stray from my favorites.

I’m open to new things, but there are classics for a reason.

I relish discovering the new and unfamiliar.

When it comes to listening to music …

I like folk, bluegrass and more traditional forms.

If it’s improvised and cool, I’m there.

If I’m not listening to classical music, I’m listening to …

Rooted in Black music history in the Americas and worldwide.

Going beyond Western Europe traditions, often influenced by folk music.

Drawing from traditional music of the Middle East, Southeast Asia and more.

Delving into traditional music of Native Americans and other First Nations.

Surveying traditional music of Central and South America, and the Caribbean.

Exploring traditional music cultures from around the world.

I'd like to learn more about music from:

Take a 2 minute quiz to share your taste

We'll recommend YourClassical programming just for you

Discover the power and joy of classical music

Man playing violin

Start the quiz

We can help you find classical music you'll love

Learning to Listen: American choral music from a British point of view

The choral music tradition in the United Kingdom goes back centuries, first mentioned in a manuscript from the 11th century.

In the United States, however, the choral tradition is much younger, and didn't take hold until the 20th century.

A British choir named Polyphony has a new recording, 

, that explores the history of American choral music.

On this week's Learning to Listen, you'll hear from Polyphony's conductor, Stephen Layton, and you'll hear Polyphony sing music by Samuel Barber, Randall Thompson, Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein.

Gallery

Polyphony - Stephen Layton

Polyphony, 'American Polyphony' (Amazon)

{"type":"doc","content":[{"type":"paragraph","content":[{"text":"","type":"text"}]}]}

Emily Reese

Stephen Layton and Polyphony have a new CD that explores American choral music from the 20th century. Layton joins Emily Reese on this week's Learning to Listen to share his thoughts about the American choral tradition.


American choral music from a British point of view

Like this?

Like this?

Program Playlist

Love the music?

Your Donation

We can help you find classical music you'll love