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.

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Learning to Listen: The Viola

This week, the viola takes center stage, and we're going to find out about the instrument: It's not just a big violin or the subject of endless viola jokes.

Nobuko Imai, one of the world's most sought-after violists, comments on the viola in this week's episode.


Brandenburg Concerto No. 6: 3rd movement


Concerto for Viola d'amore and Lute  movement II


Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra/Rafael Kubalek

Gallery

Michaelangelo String Quartet

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Alison Young

Longtime music host and performer Andrea Blain presents classical music programming including national specials, opera and other live broadcasts and holiday programs. She also is part of a team that works on content and scripting for ‘Rhapsody in Black’ and has voiced several episodes of YourClassical Storytime.


Nate Ryan

Andrea Blain

Japanese classical violist with an extensive career as soloist and chamber musician. Since 1988, she has played a 1690 Andrea Guarneri instrument.


Nobuko Imai

This week on Learning to Listen, the viola takes center stage. Special guest Nobuko Imai, one of the world's most sought-after violists, shares her thoughts on the instrument.


David Aaron Carpenter plays Stradivarius viola

Bertrand Guay/AFP/Getty Images

Nobuko Imai (r) with the Michaelangelo Quartet

Learning to Listen: The Viola

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