In this podcast we look at the life and music of Giuseppi Verdi, arguably the greatest composer of operas. He had a wonderful facility of conveying drama and emotion in beautiful melodies, encompassing arias, duets, trios, quartets and large choruses. He composed over 25 operas, ten of which are regularly performed throughout the world, including his four blockbusters – La Traviata, Il Trovatore, Aida and Rigoletto.
In this podcast we introduce some of the greatest classical music ever composed including symphonies, concertos, choral works and opera. These excerpts are easy to listen to and will hopefully tempt you to access the other podcasts in our series
In this podcast we explore the world of opera including many “greatest hits” - arias, duets, trios, quartets, choruses and death scenes. From the great composers Puccini, Verdi, Mozart, Bellini, Donizetti, Wagner and others
Edward Elgar, probably England’s greatest composer. As well as Land of Hope and Glory, Nimrod and the wonderful cello concerto he composed many beautiful works, including two symphonies, a violin concerto, a great choral work, songs and many other masterpieces
In this latest podcast we look at the life and music of Ludwig van Beethoven, arguably the greatest composer ever. Succeeded despite an unhappy childhood, disastrous love life and many personal problems. And he became deaf from his mid-twenties. An unpleasant man but he composed wonderful symphonies, concertos, choral works, an opera and superb chamber music.
Get to know the lives and works of Gilbert & Sullivan, their catchy tunes, beautiful songs and brilliant wit and humour. Features The Mikado and HMS Pinafore
Listen to ten of the greatest concertos ever written including Brahms, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Mendelssohn, Bruch, Barber ans Sibelius
Composer of the most romantic operas - Madame Butterfly, Tosca, La Boheme etc. Produced many gorgeous, heart-breaking melodies. Very colourful life, a real gigolo
The great romantic composer, his four symphonies are among the greatest ever written. Started by playing piano in a brothel when only 10. Had lots of affairs but never married. Had long relationship with Clara Schumann but never consumated (probably).
The life and works of Ralph Vaughan Williams, England's greatest composer, a wonderful human being with a fascinating life story
