Ethercast: Recent Episodes
Indiana Public Media
Ethercast is the companion podcast to Ether Game, a weekly music trivia show produced by WFIU Public Radio in Bloomington, Indiana. On each episode of Ethercast, host Christopher Burrus explores big questions in the world of classical music.
Most composers haven't written that many of them. Is that because they are harder to write than your average piece?
Most composers haven't written that many of them. Is that because they are harder to write than your average piece?
Join the Ether Game Brain Trust for a look back at our favorite podcast moments in 2019
Join the Ether Game Brain Trust for a look back at our favorite podcast moments in 2019
In celebration of the Christmas spirit, the Ether Game Brain Trust looks back at our Hygge themed Ether Game and presents an extra round of quizzing!
In celebration of the Christmas spirit, the Ether Game Brain Trust looks back at our Hygge themed Ether Game and presents an extra round of quizzing!
Join the Ether Game Brain Trust in exploring the history of improvisation in classical music and its departure from the tradition.
Join the Ether Game Brain Trust in exploring the history of improvisation in classical music and its departure from the tradition.
Just because a composer's name is written on the music doesn't mean they wrote it! Explore five moments when history got it wrong.
Just because a composer's name is written on the music doesn't mean they wrote it! Explore five moments when history got it wrong.
What piece is the top dog in classical music? We try to figure it out on this week's Ethercast
What piece is the top dog in classical music? We try to figure it out on this week's Ethercast
This week on Ethercast, the Ether Game Brain Trust continues its exploration of concert etiquette with a listen to the Mannheim steamroller and the Mannheim rocket!
This week on Ethercast, the Ether Game Brain Trust continues its exploration of concert etiquette with a listen to the Mannheim steamroller and the Mannheim rocket!
On this week's Ethercast, we explore Debussy's Clair de Lune, and question why the piece is so popular,
On this week's Ethercast, we explore Debussy's Clair de Lune, and question why the piece is so popular,
On Ethercast this week, join the Ether Game Brain Trust to debunk a centuries-old urban legend about the composer Giovanni Palestrina
On Ethercast this week, join the Ether Game Brain Trust to debunk a centuries-old urban legend about the composer Giovanni Palestrina
This week on Ethercast, we discover how the mechanically-minded Josef Haydn composed the earliest "recordings" of classical music
This week on Ethercast, we discover how the mechanically-minded Josef Haydn composed the earliest "recordings" of classical music
The companion classical music podcast to Ether Game takes a deep dive on the orchestral conductor
The companion classical music podcast to Ether Game takes a deep dive on the orchestral conductor
Ether Game gave you a dozen twelve-themed pieces for the twelfth month of year. How about one more piece from the Brain Trust to make it a baker's dozen?
Ether Game gave you a dozen twelve-themed pieces for the twelfth month of year. How about one more piece from the Brain Trust to make it a baker's dozen?
The Ether Game Brain Trust puts on their hard hats and tool belts with a show about musical structures, forms and building blocks
The Ether Game Brain Trust puts on their hard hats and tool belts with a show about musical structures, forms and building blocks
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this spooky tune? Here's a hint: Major insomnia
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this spooky tune? Here's a hint: Major insomnia
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this sad piece? Here's a hint: shave and a haircut...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this sad piece? Here's a hint: shave and a haircut...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this shiny tune? Here's a hint: in the beginning...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this shiny tune? Here's a hint: in the beginning...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this fruity piece? Here's a hint: en pointe...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this fruity piece? Here's a hint: en pointe...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this transportational tune? Here's a hint: up the mountain...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this transportational tune? Here's a hint: up the mountain...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this cinematic tune? Here's a hint: the horror, the horror...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this cinematic tune? Here's a hint: the horror, the horror...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this tune (divisible by nine)? Here's a hint: a Bohemian abroad...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this tune (divisible by nine)? Here's a hint: a Bohemian abroad...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this subterranean tune? Here's a hint: an underground gatekeeper...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this subterranean tune? Here's a hint: an underground gatekeeper...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this academic tune? Here's a hit: the season for schooling...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this academic tune? Here's a hit: the season for schooling...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this eternal piece? Here's a hint: everything is more fun in hell...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this eternal piece? Here's a hint: everything is more fun in hell...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this morning-time piece? Here's a hint: in plain sight...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this morning-time piece? Here's a hint: in plain sight...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this highlighted piece? Here's a hint: down in the depths...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this highlighted piece? Here's a hint: down in the depths...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this internal piece? Here's a hint: just a trim...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this internal piece? Here's a hint: just a trim...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this organ piece? Here's a hint: two birds with one stone...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this organ piece? Here's a hint: two birds with one stone...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this liberated tune? Here's a hint: All-American freedom...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this liberated tune? Here's a hint: All-American freedom...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this electrified tune? Here's a hint: that's not the point...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this electrified tune? Here's a hint: that's not the point...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this lawful tune? Here's a hint: locked up...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this lawful tune? Here's a hint: locked up...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this New York tune? Here's a hint: it's a helluva town...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this New York tune? Here's a hint: it's a helluva town...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Roman tune? Here's a hint: are you not entertained?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Roman tune? Here's a hint: are you not entertained?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Viennese tune? Here's a hint: the veins of the city...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Viennese tune? Here's a hint: the veins of the city...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this British tune? Here's a hint: a foggy day for a symphony...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this British tune? Here's a hint: a foggy day for a symphony...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Parisian tune? Here's a hint: thereby hangs a tale...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Parisian tune? Here's a hint: thereby hangs a tale...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this heroic tune? Here's a hint: 17 years ago...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this heroic tune? Here's a hint: 17 years ago...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this unfamiliar tune? Here's a hint: jazz in Leningrad...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this unfamiliar tune? Here's a hint: jazz in Leningrad...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this springtime tune? Here's a hint: spring savagery...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this springtime tune? Here's a hint: spring savagery...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this danceable tune? Here's a hint: two households...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this danceable tune? Here's a hint: two households...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this re-orchestrated piece? Here's a hint: would you like to take a walk?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this re-orchestrated piece? Here's a hint: would you like to take a walk?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this ringing piece? Here's a hint: the sorcerer's bell...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this ringing piece? Here's a hint: the sorcerer's bell...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this coupled tune? Here's a hint: a gift of a silver rose...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this coupled tune? Here's a hint: a gift of a silver rose...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this rumbling tune? Here's a hint: way down low in Istanbul...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this rumbling tune? Here's a hint: way down low in Istanbul...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this hopeful tune? Here's a hint: a cold journey...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this hopeful tune? Here's a hint: a cold journey...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this palatial piece? Here's a hint: a hike down the Royal Mile...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this palatial piece? Here's a hint: a hike down the Royal Mile...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this simple tune? Here's a hint: man on wire...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this simple tune? Here's a hint: man on wire...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this exploratory piece? Here's a hint: a hike through the highlands...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this exploratory piece? Here's a hint: a hike through the highlands...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this timely tune? Here's a hint: it premiered in 300 years ago...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this timely tune? Here's a hint: it premiered in 300 years ago...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chilly piece? Here's a hint: winter in Venice...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chilly piece? Here's a hint: winter in Venice...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Jewish composer? Here's a hint: a whirlwind prophet...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Jewish composer? Here's a hint: a whirlwind prophet...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this mystical tune? Here's a hint: studies on a different realm...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this mystical tune? Here's a hint: studies on a different realm...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this educational tune? Here's a hint: simply scandalous...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this educational tune? Here's a hint: simply scandalous...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this delicious tune? Here's a hint: a hot turkey dinner...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this delicious tune? Here's a hint: a hot turkey dinner...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this jazzy tune? Here's a hint: Easy as...cake?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this jazzy tune? Here's a hint: Easy as...cake?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this "heartfelt" tune? Here's a hint: a stage mother...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this "heartfelt" tune? Here's a hint: a stage mother...
The Ether Game Braaaaain Trust asks, can you name this spooky tune? Here's a hint: a hairless hill...
The Ether Game Braaaaain Trust asks, can you name this spooky tune? Here's a hint: a hairless hill...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this solo piece? Here's a hint: sold his soul...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this solo piece? Here's a hint: sold his soul...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this hunting piece? Here's a hint: one of 12...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this hunting piece? Here's a hint: one of 12...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this pirate tune? Here's a hint: beware the Ides of March...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this pirate tune? Here's a hint: beware the Ides of March...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint: joy to the world...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint: joy to the world...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this worldly tune? Here's a hint: The Land of the Rising Sun...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this worldly tune? Here's a hint: The Land of the Rising Sun...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this dreamy tune? Here's a hint: dreaming of fairies and donkeys...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this dreamy tune? Here's a hint: dreaming of fairies and donkeys...
It's a bird, it's a plane, it's ETHER GAME! We're taking off this week with some musical flights of fancy.
It's a bird, it's a plane, it's ETHER GAME! We're taking off this week with some musical flights of fancy.
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this airborne tune? Here's a hint: studying birds...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this airborne tune? Here's a hint: studying birds...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this familial piece? Here's a hint: see ya later...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this familial piece? Here's a hint: see ya later...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this keyboard piece? Here's a hint: music for good behavior...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this keyboard piece? Here's a hint: music for good behavior...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this combative piece? Here's a hint: a juicy trinity...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this combative piece? Here's a hint: a juicy trinity...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this fateful piece? Here's a hint: before Romeo and Juliet...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this fateful piece? Here's a hint: before Romeo and Juliet...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this expensive tune? Here's a hint: a gilded yarn...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this expensive tune? Here's a hint: a gilded yarn...
The Ether Game Brain Trust celebrates the Fourth of July with a show about musical FIREWORKS!
The Ether Game Brain Trust celebrates the Fourth of July with a show about musical FIREWORKS!
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this enigmatic piece? Here's a hint: on the dotted line...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this enigmatic piece? Here's a hint: on the dotted line...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chamber piece? Here's a hint: heard in French society...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chamber piece? Here's a hint: heard in French society...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this liturgical piece? Here's a hint: Amen in Austria...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this liturgical piece? Here's a hint: Amen in Austria...
The Ether Game Brain Trust explores the history, influences, and trivia behind this groundbreaking Beatles album
The Ether Game Brain Trust explores the history, influences, and trivia behind this groundbreaking Beatles album
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this unfinished piece? Here's a hint: a fitting conclusion...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this unfinished piece? Here's a hint: a fitting conclusion...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this ultimate tune? Here's a hint: a joyous conclusion...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this ultimate tune? Here's a hint: a joyous conclusion...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this mythical tune? Here's a hint: submerged nymphs...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this mythical tune? Here's a hint: submerged nymphs...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this foolish tune? Here's a hint: feeling a bit sheepish...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this foolish tune? Here's a hint: feeling a bit sheepish...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this literary tune? Here's a hint: a surviving storyteller...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this literary tune? Here's a hint: a surviving storyteller...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this percussive piece? Here's a hint: blacksmith battery...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this percussive piece? Here's a hint: blacksmith battery...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this circular tune? Here's a hint: a different kind of "pi"...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this circular tune? Here's a hint: a different kind of "pi"...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this martial tune? Here's a hint: a solemn two-step...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this martial tune? Here's a hint: a solemn two-step...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this sonorous tune? Here's a hint: a sonata from Salzburg...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this sonorous tune? Here's a hint: a sonata from Salzburg...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this royal piece? Here's a hint: the act of anointing...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this royal piece? Here's a hint: the act of anointing...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this romantic piece? Here's a hint: a bon-bon from Bonn...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this romantic piece? Here's a hint: a bon-bon from Bonn...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this commemorative piece? Here's a hint: Spanish tributes...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this commemorative piece? Here's a hint: Spanish tributes...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this mountainous tune? Here's a hint: in the Scandinavian highlands...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this mountainous tune? Here's a hint: in the Scandinavian highlands...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this wacky piece? Here's a hint: funding fury...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this wacky piece? Here's a hint: funding fury...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this temporal tune? Here's a hint: tick tock...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this temporal tune? Here's a hint: tick tock...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this doubled tune? Here's a hint: showcase for two...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this doubled tune? Here's a hint: showcase for two...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chilly piece? Here's a hint: a powdery promenade...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chilly piece? Here's a hint: a powdery promenade...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this stringed piece? Here's a hint: don't look back...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this stringed piece? Here's a hint: don't look back...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this scientific tune? Here's a hint: big pharma...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this scientific tune? Here's a hint: big pharma...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this numerical tune? Here's a hint: my hero zero...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this numerical tune? Here's a hint: my hero zero...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this political tune? Here's a hint: duck, dive, dodge...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this political tune? Here's a hint: duck, dive, dodge...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this criminal tune? Here's a hint: unlawful harmony...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this criminal tune? Here's a hint: unlawful harmony...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this folksy tune? Here's a hint: giddy up...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this folksy tune? Here's a hint: giddy up...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this secondary tune? Here's a hint: Wolfie's foil...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this secondary tune? Here's a hint: Wolfie's foil...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this autumnal piece? Here's a hint: autumn on swan lake...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this autumnal piece? Here's a hint: autumn on swan lake...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chocolaty piece? Here's a hint: like opera for chocolate...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this chocolaty piece? Here's a hint: like opera for chocolate...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this numerical tune? Here's a hint: on a silver platter...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this numerical tune? Here's a hint: on a silver platter...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this medicinal tune? Here's a hint: come, cordial and not poison...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this medicinal tune? Here's a hint: come, cordial and not poison...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this hard-working tune? Here's a hint: crossing the Mediterranean...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this hard-working tune? Here's a hint: crossing the Mediterranean...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this expanded piece? Here's a hint: a storm is coming...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this expanded piece? Here's a hint: a storm is coming...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this belligerent tune? Here's a hint: here comes Brünnhilde...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this belligerent tune? Here's a hint: here comes Brünnhilde...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this location-based tune? Here's a hint: stay cool...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this location-based tune? Here's a hint: stay cool...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this historical piece? Here's a hint: swan songs...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this historical piece? Here's a hint: swan songs...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this stormy tune? Here's a hint: the isle is full of noises...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this stormy tune? Here's a hint: the isle is full of noises...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this influenced piece? Here's a hint: the masked trickster...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this influenced piece? Here's a hint: the masked trickster...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this earthly selection? Here's a hint: out of this world...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this earthly selection? Here's a hint: out of this world...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this appetizing tune? Here's a hint: play on...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this appetizing tune? Here's a hint: play on...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this temperate tune? Here's a hint: a symphony in love...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this temperate tune? Here's a hint: a symphony in love...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this presidential piece? Here's a hint: from Montana?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this presidential piece? Here's a hint: from Montana?
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Shrovetide tune? Here's a hint: a festive menagerie...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this Shrovetide tune? Here's a hint: a festive menagerie...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this bedtime piece? Here's a hint: schlafe, schlafe...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this bedtime piece? Here's a hint: schlafe, schlafe...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this colorful tune? Here's a hint: not red or yellow...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this colorful tune? Here's a hint: not red or yellow...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this monochromatic tune? Here's a hint: the devil in disguise...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this monochromatic tune? Here's a hint: the devil in disguise...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this crimson piece? Here's a hint: Lost and Found...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this crimson piece? Here's a hint: Lost and Found...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this yuletide tune? Here's a hint: a six-day performance...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this yuletide tune? Here's a hint: a six-day performance...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this praiseworthy piece? Here's a hint: thus spake the prophet...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this praiseworthy piece? Here's a hint: thus spake the prophet...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this sporting tune? Here's a hint: lighting the torch...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this sporting tune? Here's a hint: lighting the torch...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this thankful tune? Here's a hint: thanks in victory...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this thankful tune? Here's a hint: thanks in victory...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this loud piece? Here's a hint: 17th-century stereo...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this loud piece? Here's a hint: 17th-century stereo...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this quiet piece? Here's a hint: a mystic wanderer...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this quiet piece? Here's a hint: a mystic wanderer...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this spooky tune? Here's a hint: monstrous matrimony...
The Ether Game Brain Trust asks, can you name this spooky tune? Here's a hint: monstrous matrimony...
This week, we're doing the "danse macabre" as we explore the apocalyptic sounds of plagues and pestilence.
This week, we're doing the "danse macabre" as we explore the apocalyptic sounds of plagues and pestilence.
For this special St. Patrick's Day edition of Ether Game, the Brain Trust is exploring all things Irish!
For this special St. Patrick's Day edition of Ether Game, the Brain Trust is exploring all things Irish!
The Brain Trust is providing a musical ramble of military rank in a show called “Name and Rank.”
The Brain Trust is providing a musical ramble of military rank in a show called “Name and Rank.”
No new episode of Ether Game on Tuesday, but tune in to WFIU for all of your election coverage! In the meantime, can you name this election-themed tune?
No new episode of Ether Game on Tuesday, but tune in to WFIU for all of your election coverage! In the meantime, can you name this election-themed tune?
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... a delightful feature of many plants...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... a delightful feature of many plants...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint...a double meaning to "C" Sharp...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint...a double meaning to "C" Sharp...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it was probably a song your mother taught you...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it was probably a song your mother taught you...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... tomorrow you can hear another...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... tomorrow you can hear another...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... typically played by someone like Jeff Nelson, for instance...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... typically played by someone like Jeff Nelson, for instance...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it's most effective when it’s not cloudy...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it's most effective when it’s not cloudy...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... perhaps a solar eclipse really is a warning sign...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... perhaps a solar eclipse really is a warning sign...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... usually best heard after a snow storm...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... usually best heard after a snow storm...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... One good prankster deserves another.
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... One good prankster deserves another.
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... you may be off by a second...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... you may be off by a second...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... also an appropriate selection for Valentine's Day...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... also an appropriate selection for Valentine's Day...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... they often claim that the youngest gets spoiled...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... they often claim that the youngest gets spoiled...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it was someone's last supper...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it was someone's last supper...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this tune might make you Hungary....
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this tune might make you Hungary....
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... we probably should have used this for our 'Swan Songs' show...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... we probably should have used this for our 'Swan Songs' show...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... you're in for a "Wald" time...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... you're in for a "Wald" time...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... think “Beethovenian,” not “pitiful”...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... think “Beethovenian,” not “pitiful”...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... Exercise for the well-to-do sorts...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... Exercise for the well-to-do sorts...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it corresponds with meal times...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it corresponds with meal times...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... perhaps there should have been two soloists...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... perhaps there should have been two soloists...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint...Coughing in Act I is always a bad sign...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint...Coughing in Act I is always a bad sign...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... faster than a speeding bullet...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... faster than a speeding bullet...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... perform exactly as written...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... perform exactly as written...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... not all birds are this knowledgeable...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... not all birds are this knowledgeable...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this is an excellent birthday present...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this is an excellent birthday present...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... teaching the king can be a tricky business...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... teaching the king can be a tricky business...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... she'll put it in the Russian Post...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... she'll put it in the Russian Post...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... avoid sight-reading in public if you can...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... avoid sight-reading in public if you can...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this composer was an avid letter-writer...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this composer was an avid letter-writer...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this guy is smarter than he looks...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this guy is smarter than he looks...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... now you see the cliff, now you don't...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... now you see the cliff, now you don't...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... no troubadour would have played this instrument...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... no troubadour would have played this instrument...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this tune is brought to you by English colonialism...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this tune is brought to you by English colonialism...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this young lady is far from home...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this young lady is far from home...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it's this is no ordinary symphony...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... it's this is no ordinary symphony...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this would be considered formalwear...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint... this would be considered formalwear...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint: you may need to buy a train ticket...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Here's a hint: you may need to buy a train ticket...
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? We suggest you ask our friend Ziggy for a hint.
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? We suggest you ask our friend Ziggy for a hint.
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Find out the answer Tuesday night at 8pm with special guest, Sue Swaney.
Ether Game asks, can you name this tune? Find out the answer Tuesday night at 8pm with special guest, Sue Swaney.
Ether Game begins it's 42nd year with a new way to play, better prizes, and celebrity guest. This week, it's all about beginnings.
Ether Game begins it's 42nd year with a new way to play, better prizes, and celebrity guest. This week, it's all about beginnings.
This work featured many controversial and novel ideas, especially the rowdy chorus of women in the first act. Despite its endorsement from a number of prominent composers, this opera wasn’t exactly a smash success.
This work featured many controversial and novel ideas, especially the rowdy chorus of women in the first act. Despite its endorsement from a number of prominent composers, this opera wasn’t exactly a smash success.
This composer's first film score came at the bequest of a famous American director. While working on this film, the composer insisted on making his own orchestration decisions, often resulting in striking, unusual combinations. This technique would show up in a later film score with another famous American director.
This composer's first film score came at the bequest of a famous American director. While working on this film, the composer insisted on making his own orchestration decisions, often resulting in striking, unusual combinations. This technique would show up in a later film score with another famous American director.
Can you name this piece? Here's a hint: Same date as “The Second War of American Independence”
Can you name this piece? Here's a hint: Same date as “The Second War of American Independence”
In England, oratorios were often performed at benefit concerts. Large-scale vocal works could draw large crowds, and the pious messages they contained were aimed at drawing forth donations for worthy causes. Some English oratorios were imported to Vienna and translated to be used for similar purposes.
In England, oratorios were often performed at benefit concerts. Large-scale vocal works could draw large crowds, and the pious messages they contained were aimed at drawing forth donations for worthy causes. Some English oratorios were imported to Vienna and translated to be used for similar purposes.
The movie Chocolat was an Oscar nominee for Best Picture in 2000. The story center around an iconoclastic chocolatier who shakes up the life of a small French town in 1960. After initially meeting with resistance, the confectioner (played by Juliette Binoche) eventually wins over the hearts and palates of the townspeople.
The movie Chocolat was an Oscar nominee for Best Picture in 2000. The story center around an iconoclastic chocolatier who shakes up the life of a small French town in 1960. After initially meeting with resistance, the confectioner (played by Juliette Binoche) eventually wins over the hearts and palates of the townspeople.
Over the past forty years, this composer has become one of the most well-known film composers in America. This film about a boy who befriends a stranded alien was the composer's sixth collaboration with its director. The composer's exuberant and emotive music perfectly captures the film’s immersion in the world of childhood and the imagination.
Over the past forty years, this composer has become one of the most well-known film composers in America. This film about a boy who befriends a stranded alien was the composer's sixth collaboration with its director. The composer's exuberant and emotive music perfectly captures the film’s immersion in the world of childhood and the imagination.
Surprisingly, over half of this composer's output involves voices in some manner, and the six last masses are considered to be at the pinnacle of his contributions to the genre. His primary duty was to supply a mass each year for performance in conjunction with the celebration of the name-day of Maria Hermenegild.
Surprisingly, over half of this composer's output involves voices in some manner, and the six last masses are considered to be at the pinnacle of his contributions to the genre. His primary duty was to supply a mass each year for performance in conjunction with the celebration of the name-day of Maria Hermenegild.
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: sometimes penny-pinching can lead to artistic inspiration...
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: sometimes penny-pinching can lead to artistic inspiration...
This ballet begins with the most wonderful thing in the world: presents! Family and friends arrive bearing season’s greetings and ready to party. During the festivities, a mysterious guest arrives with his own bag of gifts for the children.
This ballet begins with the most wonderful thing in the world: presents! Family and friends arrive bearing season’s greetings and ready to party. During the festivities, a mysterious guest arrives with his own bag of gifts for the children.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: No bunnies were harmed in the writing of this composition.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: No bunnies were harmed in the writing of this composition.
In France, the midnight service on Christmas Eve is traditionally followed by a meal called "Le Réveillon," during which many cafes and restaurants are open all night. When the play was adapted for this particular opera, this French custom was replaced by something more familiar to Viennese audiences: a ball!
In France, the midnight service on Christmas Eve is traditionally followed by a meal called "Le Réveillon," during which many cafes and restaurants are open all night. When the play was adapted for this particular opera, this French custom was replaced by something more familiar to Viennese audiences: a ball!
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: This is not the semi-regular weather pattern of the Pacific Ocean
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: This is not the semi-regular weather pattern of the Pacific Ocean
This composer was also one of the most noted violin virtuosi of his time. One witness claimed that his cadenzas “really terrified me because such [cadenzas] have not been nor can ever be played.” This virtuosity translated into his compositions as well, as is evidenced in this piece.
This composer was also one of the most noted violin virtuosi of his time. One witness claimed that his cadenzas “really terrified me because such [cadenzas] have not been nor can ever be played.” This virtuosity translated into his compositions as well, as is evidenced in this piece.
This composer loved food as much, or maybe even more, than he loved music. In one letter, he raced through a description of the opening of a new opera, so that he could write about a new salad recipe. His favorite dishes were turkey stuffed with truffles and most anything with foie gras. He even had many different dishes named after him!
This composer loved food as much, or maybe even more, than he loved music. In one letter, he raced through a description of the opening of a new opera, so that he could write about a new salad recipe. His favorite dishes were turkey stuffed with truffles and most anything with foie gras. He even had many different dishes named after him!
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: some very ancient wisdom given a modern twist…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: some very ancient wisdom given a modern twist…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a “social contract” is okay, but opera singers prefer the real thing…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a “social contract” is okay, but opera singers prefer the real thing…
The composer's first symphony was a flop. Critics and audiences were universal in their disdain: the young composer was crushed, and did not compose until nearly three years later. The causes of the failed premiere were several: the style of this composer was different, and it didn't help that the conductor of the premiere was drunk on the podium..
The composer's first symphony was a flop. Critics and audiences were universal in their disdain: the young composer was crushed, and did not compose until nearly three years later. The causes of the failed premiere were several: the style of this composer was different, and it didn't help that the conductor of the premiere was drunk on the podium..
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a Christmas favorite keeps us coming back for more…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a Christmas favorite keeps us coming back for more…
This composer, or rather, the fictional “artist,” reflects upon love, losing, and murdering of a “beloved” who is depicted by a recurring musical theme. In this movement, the artist has taken opium and, in his drug-induced dream, has killed his beloved. He is then a witness to his own execution as he marches up the scaffold steps to be beheaded.
This composer, or rather, the fictional “artist,” reflects upon love, losing, and murdering of a “beloved” who is depicted by a recurring musical theme. In this movement, the artist has taken opium and, in his drug-induced dream, has killed his beloved. He is then a witness to his own execution as he marches up the scaffold steps to be beheaded.
Around the time this composer began this symphony, he got married, but it was a failure, in part because his sexual proclivities lay elsewhere. With a spiral into depression and attempted suicide, the symphony was understandably put on hold. By the end of the year, however, he had found encouragement from a generous (and wealthy) patron.
Around the time this composer began this symphony, he got married, but it was a failure, in part because his sexual proclivities lay elsewhere. With a spiral into depression and attempted suicide, the symphony was understandably put on hold. By the end of the year, however, he had found encouragement from a generous (and wealthy) patron.
In 1857, with the first two operas of a larger cycle completed, the composer left our teaser partway through Act II, and did not return to his hero until 1869. In the meantime, this composer wrote two operas, his marriage fell apart, he was kicked out of Vienna for debt, and he acquired his most influential patron, King Ludwig II of Bavaria.
In 1857, with the first two operas of a larger cycle completed, the composer left our teaser partway through Act II, and did not return to his hero until 1869. In the meantime, this composer wrote two operas, his marriage fell apart, he was kicked out of Vienna for debt, and he acquired his most influential patron, King Ludwig II of Bavaria.
The technique of this composer and performer was so frightfully good that many claimed that he was in league with the Devil. His flashy first violin concerto is filled with deft maneuvers like left hand pizzicato, rapid thirds, and an abundance of harmonics. These techniques led many of his contemporaries to call the concerto unplayable.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: familiar instrument, made from gruesome stuff.
The technique of this composer and performer was so frightfully good that many claimed that he was in league with the Devil. His flashy first violin concerto is filled with deft maneuvers like left hand pizzicato, rapid thirds, and an abundance of harmonics. These techniques led many of his contemporaries to call the concerto unplayable.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: familiar instrument, made from gruesome stuff.
In this piece, the goddess Minerva reawakens in modern Greece and is devastated to find her homeland occupied by the Ottoman Turks. Luckily, Minerva is reassured that the light of Classical Greek culture has conveniently been passed on to the Austrian empire.
In this piece, the goddess Minerva reawakens in modern Greece and is devastated to find her homeland occupied by the Ottoman Turks. Luckily, Minerva is reassured that the light of Classical Greek culture has conveniently been passed on to the Austrian empire.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: an application for admission into the “B” club
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: an application for admission into the “B” club
This composer's operas were more popular outside of his hometown; in fact, and earlier opera had been a huge hit in a Bohemian city, leading to a commission for an operatic premiere. The composer's response to this commission was to produce what has probably become the most well-known telling of the tale of an infamous lover.
This composer's operas were more popular outside of his hometown; in fact, and earlier opera had been a huge hit in a Bohemian city, leading to a commission for an operatic premiere. The composer's response to this commission was to produce what has probably become the most well-known telling of the tale of an infamous lover.
The score for this film was nominated for an Oscar, but lost to another movie just as popular. If sheer musical girth had been a factor, the score heard here certainly would have won as it is present under nearly the entire movie, just under four hours of music. Even more amazing, the composer worked on eleven other film scores in this same year.
The score for this film was nominated for an Oscar, but lost to another movie just as popular. If sheer musical girth had been a factor, the score heard here certainly would have won as it is present under nearly the entire movie, just under four hours of music. Even more amazing, the composer worked on eleven other film scores in this same year.
While finishing up this selection in a village outside Vienna, this composer also wrote a strange document that he never sent. It contains the composer's realization of that his worsening condition. Of course, that wasn’t his only mysterious letter – there’s still the one addressed to an unknown someone.
While finishing up this selection in a village outside Vienna, this composer also wrote a strange document that he never sent. It contains the composer's realization of that his worsening condition. Of course, that wasn’t his only mysterious letter – there’s still the one addressed to an unknown someone.
Although these concertos were originally published side-by-side with several others, four have been singled out and become a set. In the score, each concerto is accompanied by a poetic sonnet, possibly by the composer himself! But because of the massive amount of anonymous poetry in print from this period, it is likely we will never know for sure.
Although these concertos were originally published side-by-side with several others, four have been singled out and become a set. In the score, each concerto is accompanied by a poetic sonnet, possibly by the composer himself! But because of the massive amount of anonymous poetry in print from this period, it is likely we will never know for sure.
It can be hard to imagine the thorough craftsmanship, practical ingenuity, and innate sense of artistry that had to be available on a tight schedule in the world of this composer. However, he probably had a little more time than usual to work on his first large-scale work for his post in Leipzig.
It can be hard to imagine the thorough craftsmanship, practical ingenuity, and innate sense of artistry that had to be available on a tight schedule in the world of this composer. However, he probably had a little more time than usual to work on his first large-scale work for his post in Leipzig.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: buzzing and croaking our way out of captivity…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: buzzing and croaking our way out of captivity…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: Hundreds of concertos? We’ll ‘hop’ right to it
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: Hundreds of concertos? We’ll ‘hop’ right to it
The Alps is one of the greatest mountain ranges in Europe, and is a favorite vacationing spot for hikers and skiers alike. For our composer, the grandiosity of the Alps could only be matched by a composition of mammoth proportions played by an equally grand orchestra. The work requires 120 or more musicians and unusual percussion instruments.
The Alps is one of the greatest mountain ranges in Europe, and is a favorite vacationing spot for hikers and skiers alike. For our composer, the grandiosity of the Alps could only be matched by a composition of mammoth proportions played by an equally grand orchestra. The work requires 120 or more musicians and unusual percussion instruments.
While stories of heroic courage, loyalty, and thrilling adventure are universal, similarities between the figures of the cowboy and the Japanese samurai have inspired several specific cases of cross-cultural borrowing.
While stories of heroic courage, loyalty, and thrilling adventure are universal, similarities between the figures of the cowboy and the Japanese samurai have inspired several specific cases of cross-cultural borrowing.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: These guys loved to push the musical envelope!
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: These guys loved to push the musical envelope!
In the hands of our composer, this story originally by Voltaire still managed to retain its satirical edge. In the scene we just heard, our world-traveling hero lands in Venice. There, he is drawn into the cynical world of gambling and corruption, set to the spin of the roulette wheel.
In the hands of our composer, this story originally by Voltaire still managed to retain its satirical edge. In the scene we just heard, our world-traveling hero lands in Venice. There, he is drawn into the cynical world of gambling and corruption, set to the spin of the roulette wheel.
This operatic chorus was written directly into the script of a famous Vietnam War film, taking it out of the realm of mythology and into horrifyingly realistic conflict. But the work probably didn’t need the added publicity. The opera in which it appeared was part of a cycle of works that revolutionized the genre.
This operatic chorus was written directly into the script of a famous Vietnam War film, taking it out of the realm of mythology and into horrifyingly realistic conflict. But the work probably didn’t need the added publicity. The opera in which it appeared was part of a cycle of works that revolutionized the genre.
This composer wrote scores for eight films. While some studios avoided him for being too “modern,” the popularity of his works led to studios frequently seeking him to compose for films on specifically American subjects. The novels of American John Steinbeck made ideal subjects for this composer's style.
This composer wrote scores for eight films. While some studios avoided him for being too “modern,” the popularity of his works led to studios frequently seeking him to compose for films on specifically American subjects. The novels of American John Steinbeck made ideal subjects for this composer's style.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: talkin’ bout the birds, bees, and tone clusters…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: talkin’ bout the birds, bees, and tone clusters…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: So you think you can dance on the Great White Way?
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: So you think you can dance on the Great White Way?
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: in Siberia, you need all the friends you can get…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: in Siberia, you need all the friends you can get…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a nasty note from the 18th century to the 20th …
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a nasty note from the 18th century to the 20th …
This choral work uses the idea of dryness to examine man’s self-awareness and discipline. The composer has explained his title, coming from a book of poetry, with allusions to various religious figures and atomic testing. This piece also marks the composer's transition in the 1980s from electronic music towards more traditional musical genres.
This choral work uses the idea of dryness to examine man’s self-awareness and discipline. The composer has explained his title, coming from a book of poetry, with allusions to various religious figures and atomic testing. This piece also marks the composer's transition in the 1980s from electronic music towards more traditional musical genres.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: It’s one of the first big orchestral showstoppers
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: It’s one of the first big orchestral showstoppers
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: A great American salutes another great American
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: A great American salutes another great American
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a Hooiser boy does some astronomical cleaning…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: a Hooiser boy does some astronomical cleaning…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: arranged by an emigrant “star” of modern music…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: arranged by an emigrant “star” of modern music…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: He’s somewhere between Claude Monet and Bob Ross.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: He’s somewhere between Claude Monet and Bob Ross.
Our composer wrote this piece in response to a commission. The overture was played as part of the opening of a theater in Vienna. The opening chords followed by long pauses are a great test of a new concert hall. The sound check is built into the composition!
Our composer wrote this piece in response to a commission. The overture was played as part of the opening of a theater in Vienna. The opening chords followed by long pauses are a great test of a new concert hall. The sound check is built into the composition!
This composition was commissioned to commemorate the repulsion of Napoleon’s forces. The composer even included the French anthem La Marseillaise into the work, confronted by the roar of cannon. The overture was set to premiere in 1881 but the ruler's assassination delayed the premiere until the following year.
This composition was commissioned to commemorate the repulsion of Napoleon’s forces. The composer even included the French anthem La Marseillaise into the work, confronted by the roar of cannon. The overture was set to premiere in 1881 but the ruler's assassination delayed the premiere until the following year.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: Not even severe weather can keep us from this music.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: Not even severe weather can keep us from this music.
While this composer is better known for his sacred cantatas, he wrote several secular ones. The plot tells of a young lady hopelessly addicted to coffee. It was first introduced to Europe in the seventeenth century and had made its way to Germany by the 1730s. The propriety of its consumption had become a matter of some controversy.
While this composer is better known for his sacred cantatas, he wrote several secular ones. The plot tells of a young lady hopelessly addicted to coffee. It was first introduced to Europe in the seventeenth century and had made its way to Germany by the 1730s. The propriety of its consumption had become a matter of some controversy.
No scandal in music seems to be more famous than the premiere of this ballet. The ballet was described as a tale of pagan Russia and in this tale the tribal leaders have selected a young virgin to sacrifice to the gods of spring. The choreography was viewed by many to be overtly sexual and was partly to blame for the response by original audiences.
No scandal in music seems to be more famous than the premiere of this ballet. The ballet was described as a tale of pagan Russia and in this tale the tribal leaders have selected a young virgin to sacrifice to the gods of spring. The choreography was viewed by many to be overtly sexual and was partly to blame for the response by original audiences.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: It’s just like two members of Santa’s sleigh team.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: It’s just like two members of Santa’s sleigh team.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: Studying subjects musically and scientifically.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: Studying subjects musically and scientifically.
The title of this piece is not the composer's only reference to the music of Aaron Copland, but also uses the same instrumentation as one of Copland’s fanfares, and quotes some of Copland’s music too. The composer's first manifestation of this fanfare was performed while serving as the composer-in-residence for the Saint Louis Symphony.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: This composer combines diverse elements of sound
The title of this piece is not the composer's only reference to the music of Aaron Copland, but also uses the same instrumentation as one of Copland’s fanfares, and quotes some of Copland’s music too. The composer's first manifestation of this fanfare was performed while serving as the composer-in-residence for the Saint Louis Symphony.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: This composer combines diverse elements of sound
This composer managed to escape the serious government attacks that had endangered the careers and perhaps even the lives of several of his peers. His distance from the more extreme forms of modernism made him less troublesome to the authorities, as did his passionate support for socially pragmatic music.
This composer managed to escape the serious government attacks that had endangered the careers and perhaps even the lives of several of his peers. His distance from the more extreme forms of modernism made him less troublesome to the authorities, as did his passionate support for socially pragmatic music.
This composer was also a talented virtuoso performer. His works include both showpieces for his own performance and chamber music for publication. Later in his career, he took up the viola as an alternate instrument. He also had a serious interest in the guitar, writing over a hundred works for solo guitar and guitar quartet.
This composer was also a talented virtuoso performer. His works include both showpieces for his own performance and chamber music for publication. Later in his career, he took up the viola as an alternate instrument. He also had a serious interest in the guitar, writing over a hundred works for solo guitar and guitar quartet.
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: the best songs may be the ones you don’t write…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: the best songs may be the ones you don’t write…
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: It's a selection from a musical theater classic.
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: It's a selection from a musical theater classic.
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: It's a pianistic rendition of another composer's work.
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: It's a pianistic rendition of another composer's work.
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: It's a story about flirting taken to the operatic extreme!
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: It's a story about flirting taken to the operatic extreme!
In this film about music, the star of the show is a violin, whose three-hundred-year story traverses multiple performers. Some of these fictional performers have their roots in reality, and a real-life violin superstar also had a hand in both recording the sound for the violin solos and acting as a “hand double” for the on-screen performers.
In this film about music, the star of the show is a violin, whose three-hundred-year story traverses multiple performers. Some of these fictional performers have their roots in reality, and a real-life violin superstar also had a hand in both recording the sound for the violin solos and acting as a “hand double” for the on-screen performers.
One of the most famous characters in German literature is a doctor who sells his soul to the Devil in order to gain all the knowledge the world. This selection is one of the most popular hits from a famous French adaptation of this German classic.
One of the most famous characters in German literature is a doctor who sells his soul to the Devil in order to gain all the knowledge the world. This selection is one of the most popular hits from a famous French adaptation of this German classic.
This intellectually prodigious composer actively wrote music and absorbed diverse cultures the entire time he was making a three-year “Grand Tour” of Europe. These travels frequently impacted his artistic life—a trip to Scotland gave him endless opportunities for landscape sketching, and brought him into contact with one of his favorite authors.
This intellectually prodigious composer actively wrote music and absorbed diverse cultures the entire time he was making a three-year “Grand Tour” of Europe. These travels frequently impacted his artistic life—a trip to Scotland gave him endless opportunities for landscape sketching, and brought him into contact with one of his favorite authors.
Here’s a hint: A great woman finds herself to be the admiration of two great composers.
Here’s a hint: A great woman finds herself to be the admiration of two great composers.
This selection is taken from a work the composer considered a complete set. His collection of 7 was conspicuously missing one member of the group. A few years later there were nine of them, but now there’s only eight again. Each has its own character, and this one is the most jovial member of the high-flying team.
This selection is taken from a work the composer considered a complete set. His collection of 7 was conspicuously missing one member of the group. A few years later there were nine of them, but now there’s only eight again. Each has its own character, and this one is the most jovial member of the high-flying team.
The story for this opera came from a tale by a famous Russian author, which originally appeared in a collection of short stories written in a folkloric style. The plot concerns a young blacksmith who must capture the Devil in a sack and fly on his back to St. Petersburg in a scheme to procure the Empress’s slippers.
The story for this opera came from a tale by a famous Russian author, which originally appeared in a collection of short stories written in a folkloric style. The plot concerns a young blacksmith who must capture the Devil in a sack and fly on his back to St. Petersburg in a scheme to procure the Empress’s slippers.
Here’s a hint: spooky silence gets a makeover… or a classic mystery, in the looking “glass”…
Here’s a hint: spooky silence gets a makeover… or a classic mystery, in the looking “glass”…
The composer wrote this piece for the Chicago Grand Opera company in 1919, and it stands as one of his more immediate successes. However, New York critics decried its extremely high budget. The original librettist wrote this mock fairy tale as a reaction to the criticism he received from his contemporaries that said his stories lacked originality.
The composer wrote this piece for the Chicago Grand Opera company in 1919, and it stands as one of his more immediate successes. However, New York critics decried its extremely high budget. The original librettist wrote this mock fairy tale as a reaction to the criticism he received from his contemporaries that said his stories lacked originality.
This famous opera’s overture leaves little doubt that sinister things lie ahead. The harrowing opening chords reappear at the climax, in which a ghost appears to drag his daughter’s seducer down to hell. Although, when this work was composed, this composer’s operas were more popular outside his hometown, it has become one of his signature works.
This famous opera’s overture leaves little doubt that sinister things lie ahead. The harrowing opening chords reappear at the climax, in which a ghost appears to drag his daughter’s seducer down to hell. Although, when this work was composed, this composer’s operas were more popular outside his hometown, it has become one of his signature works.
Here’s a hint: It’s a work from what many call the “founder” of Russian classical music.
Here’s a hint: It’s a work from what many call the “founder” of Russian classical music.
The success of this composer’s first symphony left him on top of the world. But his toppling was probably orchestrated in the form of Hostile, threatening reviews because he was so famous. Whether or not he “meant it,” his next, far more conventional fifth symphony was self-described as a “response to just criticism.”…
The success of this composer’s first symphony left him on top of the world. But his toppling was probably orchestrated in the form of Hostile, threatening reviews because he was so famous. Whether or not he “meant it,” his next, far more conventional fifth symphony was self-described as a “response to just criticism.”…
It would be a “capitol” idea to visit this city! Our composer was sometimes better appreciated here than in his native Vienna, and some of his operas were premiered here. Discover the solution to this puzzle on Ether Game, Tuesday evenings at 8. For more musical fun and frustration, check our website at wfiu dot o-r-g slash ether game.
It would be a “capitol” idea to visit this city! Our composer was sometimes better appreciated here than in his native Vienna, and some of his operas were premiered here. Discover the solution to this puzzle on Ether Game, Tuesday evenings at 8. For more musical fun and frustration, check our website at wfiu dot o-r-g slash ether game.
This opera tells the story of the Babylonian captivity with a sultry brew of longhaired strongmen, scheming ladies, and some pretty steamy dancing. Things might not go well for our hero once his girlfriend learns the secret of his strength. But he still has a trick up his sleeve, and his captors have danced their last exotic dance…
This opera tells the story of the Babylonian captivity with a sultry brew of longhaired strongmen, scheming ladies, and some pretty steamy dancing. Things might not go well for our hero once his girlfriend learns the secret of his strength. But he still has a trick up his sleeve, and his captors have danced their last exotic dance…
This macabre story concerns an insane Victorian barber who slaughters his clients and delivers them to his enterprising downstairs neighbor to bake into meat pies. In the meantime, he runs a mean business, despite the interference of some colorful competitors….
This macabre story concerns an insane Victorian barber who slaughters his clients and delivers them to his enterprising downstairs neighbor to bake into meat pies. In the meantime, he runs a mean business, despite the interference of some colorful competitors….
This work, the composer's only opera, took nearly twenty years to write, and was never fully finished! After the composer’s death, several of his friends completed the opera for him. Famous for its exotic dances, the opera dramatizes a medieval conflict between a growing empire and a nomadic tribe.
This work, the composer's only opera, took nearly twenty years to write, and was never fully finished! After the composer’s death, several of his friends completed the opera for him. Famous for its exotic dances, the opera dramatizes a medieval conflict between a growing empire and a nomadic tribe.
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: go to the back of the calendar and back up a step...
Can you guess this piece? Here's a hint: go to the back of the calendar and back up a step...
This classic Broadway musical explores racism with a very old story, substituting modern ethnic rivalries for medieval Italian families. Although the composer had made his reputation already as a composer and conductor, it was the Broadway debut for its lyricist, who went on to write words and music for countless classic shows.
This classic Broadway musical explores racism with a very old story, substituting modern ethnic rivalries for medieval Italian families. Although the composer had made his reputation already as a composer and conductor, it was the Broadway debut for its lyricist, who went on to write words and music for countless classic shows.
In this film, a young man with an overbearing mother and a horrible secret runs the sort of motel you wouldn’t want to check into. The composer of the score was known for using unorthodox instrumentation rather than standard studio orchestras. For this film, he used only a small string ensemble to focus and intensity the film’s stark brutality.
In this film, a young man with an overbearing mother and a horrible secret runs the sort of motel you wouldn’t want to check into. The composer of the score was known for using unorthodox instrumentation rather than standard studio orchestras. For this film, he used only a small string ensemble to focus and intensity the film’s stark brutality.
This composer found the poetry of older generations particularly appealing. The poet who wrote these lines, for example, had died around the time the composer was born. But he managed to find current, relevant emotions in these older poems, setting them as two song-cycles for voice and orchestra during a time of great personal crisis…
This composer found the poetry of older generations particularly appealing. The poet who wrote these lines, for example, had died around the time the composer was born. But he managed to find current, relevant emotions in these older poems, setting them as two song-cycles for voice and orchestra during a time of great personal crisis…
Ether Game asks: can you name this tune? Listen closely to see if anything “strikes a spark”…
Ether Game asks: can you name this tune? Listen closely to see if anything “strikes a spark”…
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: that’s what you get for rolling around in the grass in your Oxford!
Can you guess this piece? Here’s a hint: that’s what you get for rolling around in the grass in your Oxford!
Following the death of an artistic friend, this composer attended a posthumous exhibition of his. The inspiration for this movement was a blueprint, but the architectural marvel it depicted didn’t actually exist! Although the plan was officially approved, it was never constructed, and this musical tribute is the closest it came to being realized…
Following the death of an artistic friend, this composer attended a posthumous exhibition of his. The inspiration for this movement was a blueprint, but the architectural marvel it depicted didn’t actually exist! Although the plan was officially approved, it was never constructed, and this musical tribute is the closest it came to being realized…
Although Italian by birth, he served the king of France first as a ballet dancer. His musical compositions soon received official support, making him one of the most successful and influential composer around. He struck his foot with a large time-keeping baton during a performance of this piece, and the wound became infected causing his early death
Although Italian by birth, he served the king of France first as a ballet dancer. His musical compositions soon received official support, making him one of the most successful and influential composer around. He struck his foot with a large time-keeping baton during a performance of this piece, and the wound became infected causing his early death
This selection quotes a centennial scripture. Together with the work that was composed immediately before this piece, the two are the most overt in their themes based on the religious and ethnic identity of the composer. The first has been described as a work often at the edge of despair, while this music is joyful and at times serene.
This selection quotes a centennial scripture. Together with the work that was composed immediately before this piece, the two are the most overt in their themes based on the religious and ethnic identity of the composer. The first has been described as a work often at the edge of despair, while this music is joyful and at times serene.
The true nature of this piece lies in a 20th century event: the composer adopted the style of another composer in this deeply personal work that remembers his friends lost in the First World War. When he was confronted for the light-hearted nature of this elegy, he replied, “The dead are sad enough, in their eternal silence.”
The true nature of this piece lies in a 20th century event: the composer adopted the style of another composer in this deeply personal work that remembers his friends lost in the First World War. When he was confronted for the light-hearted nature of this elegy, he replied, “The dead are sad enough, in their eternal silence.”
Few philanderers can match the tenacity of the main character and antagonist of this well-known story. He measures his conquests by the page, and isn’t afraid to fault his devious nature. All of this running around makes punishment certain. The charlatan’s nature is exposed and all the lists in the world can’t keep him from his due reward.
Few philanderers can match the tenacity of the main character and antagonist of this well-known story. He measures his conquests by the page, and isn’t afraid to fault his devious nature. All of this running around makes punishment certain. The charlatan’s nature is exposed and all the lists in the world can’t keep him from his due reward.
The score for this epic story was cobbled together from a couple of different sources. One of those sources was originally published in ten volumes totaling nearly ten thousand individual lines of verse. And most written while the author was blind! After its initial success, the libretto was recast in the language of the composer’s home country.
The score for this epic story was cobbled together from a couple of different sources. One of those sources was originally published in ten volumes totaling nearly ten thousand individual lines of verse. And most written while the author was blind! After its initial success, the libretto was recast in the language of the composer’s home country.
This composer was the first American conductor of the New York Philharmonic and composed in both classical and popular fields. During his career cigarettes became something of his trademark, but later he became increasingly addicted to alcohol and drugs. He eventually developed lung cancer and died of cardiac arrest following lung failure.
This composer was the first American conductor of the New York Philharmonic and composed in both classical and popular fields. During his career cigarettes became something of his trademark, but later he became increasingly addicted to alcohol and drugs. He eventually developed lung cancer and died of cardiac arrest following lung failure.
This composer was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, but lived in New York City until he was 16. He was invited to return to Argentina to play and arrange for a tango orchestra. He further developed his musical talents by studying with Alberto Ginastera Nadia Boulanger. He later began turning his attention to developing a new style of tango.
This composer was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, but lived in New York City until he was 16. He was invited to return to Argentina to play and arrange for a tango orchestra. He further developed his musical talents by studying with Alberto Ginastera Nadia Boulanger. He later began turning his attention to developing a new style of tango.
The holiday commemorated here is observed on a different date from one that’s celebrated in the West. The celebrations date all the way back to the age of paganism and early Christianity in that country. Most of the themes incorporated in the piece depict aspects of the country's liturgical music and pagan celebrations of the past.
The holiday commemorated here is observed on a different date from one that’s celebrated in the West. The celebrations date all the way back to the age of paganism and early Christianity in that country. Most of the themes incorporated in the piece depict aspects of the country's liturgical music and pagan celebrations of the past.
This score was written just shortly after the composer penned an otherworldly TV theme, but the music heard here is no less chilling. A case of mistaken identity turns into a nightmare for a New York business executive when thugs presume he is out to stop their operation. Discover the solution to this puzzle on Ether Game, Tuesday evenings at 8.
This score was written just shortly after the composer penned an otherworldly TV theme, but the music heard here is no less chilling. A case of mistaken identity turns into a nightmare for a New York business executive when thugs presume he is out to stop their operation. Discover the solution to this puzzle on Ether Game, Tuesday evenings at 8.
This American composer had to take on several other odd jobs, including an insurance salesman, in order to make a living. This composer loved to think outside the box when it came to composing music, and while he never achieved significant musical notoriety during his lifetime, he has since become one of our country’s most admired musical figures.
This American composer had to take on several other odd jobs, including an insurance salesman, in order to make a living. This composer loved to think outside the box when it came to composing music, and while he never achieved significant musical notoriety during his lifetime, he has since become one of our country’s most admired musical figures.
The story of this legendary seducer has inspired many wonderful works of art, including paintings, a full-scale opera, and this fiendishly difficult orchestral masterpiece. The composer wrote a famous collection of orchestral works that not only tell a story through music, but also delve deep into the emotional core of each story.
The story of this legendary seducer has inspired many wonderful works of art, including paintings, a full-scale opera, and this fiendishly difficult orchestral masterpiece. The composer wrote a famous collection of orchestral works that not only tell a story through music, but also delve deep into the emotional core of each story.
This selection is based on an architectural design for a great European city. Although the structure was never constructed, it’s magnitude on paper inspired this closing movement of a larger work. The artist was a close friend of the composer and the work from which this piece is taken was dedicated to him
This selection is based on an architectural design for a great European city. Although the structure was never constructed, it’s magnitude on paper inspired this closing movement of a larger work. The artist was a close friend of the composer and the work from which this piece is taken was dedicated to him
In the hands of a famous twentieth-century composer and conductor, this eighteenth-century satire has remained relevant. We follow our hero and heroine through all manner of unlikely adventures as they search for pure happiness. Although the operetta had a long and complex production history, the composer recorded a “final” version in 1989.
In the hands of a famous twentieth-century composer and conductor, this eighteenth-century satire has remained relevant. We follow our hero and heroine through all manner of unlikely adventures as they search for pure happiness. Although the operetta had a long and complex production history, the composer recorded a “final” version in 1989.
In this classic Russian fairy tale, three princesses are kidnapped by a nasty goblin king. The tale is so popular that it even became the inspiration for a full-scale ballet by one of Russia’s most notable composers. The intense music and beautiful story have made it into a ballet classic.
In this classic Russian fairy tale, three princesses are kidnapped by a nasty goblin king. The tale is so popular that it even became the inspiration for a full-scale ballet by one of Russia’s most notable composers. The intense music and beautiful story have made it into a ballet classic.
While this arranger's romantic orchestral style isn’t “authentic” to this Baroque piece, he was still an important figure in American cultural life and was cemented by an appearance in “Fantasia.” Although chummy with Mickey Mouse, he famously received a less-gentle ribbing from Bugs Bunny, who impersonated him in an animated short…
While this arranger's romantic orchestral style isn’t “authentic” to this Baroque piece, he was still an important figure in American cultural life and was cemented by an appearance in “Fantasia.” Although chummy with Mickey Mouse, he famously received a less-gentle ribbing from Bugs Bunny, who impersonated him in an animated short…
19th-century Europe was humming and dancing along to this composer’s catchy tunes. This piece, one of the composer’s most well-known works, was written in 1882 to showcase a talented coloratura soprano who had made herself a star in Vienna. The piece remains as one of this composer’s most well-loved creations
19th-century Europe was humming and dancing along to this composer’s catchy tunes. This piece, one of the composer’s most well-known works, was written in 1882 to showcase a talented coloratura soprano who had made herself a star in Vienna. The piece remains as one of this composer’s most well-loved creations
The inspiration for this cantata was a trendy new beverage that was making its way across Europe in the early eighteenth century. The plot concerns a young lady, hopelessly addicted to the jive of the java, and her father, who tries to “cure” her by interfering in her love-life!
The inspiration for this cantata was a trendy new beverage that was making its way across Europe in the early eighteenth century. The plot concerns a young lady, hopelessly addicted to the jive of the java, and her father, who tries to “cure” her by interfering in her love-life!
In this piece, the composer goes far beyond simply transcribing music from his favorite opera, a story about an unrepentant seducer. This special type of transcription, called “reminiscences” or “memories,” was popular with Romantic composers.
In this piece, the composer goes far beyond simply transcribing music from his favorite opera, a story about an unrepentant seducer. This special type of transcription, called “reminiscences” or “memories,” was popular with Romantic composers.
This composer so passionate about his operatic philosophy that he built his own theater to serve as the main performance space for his operas. The theater opened in 1876 with the world premiere production of his monumental cycle of four operas based on subjects from Norse and ancient German mythology.
This composer so passionate about his operatic philosophy that he built his own theater to serve as the main performance space for his operas. The theater opened in 1876 with the world premiere production of his monumental cycle of four operas based on subjects from Norse and ancient German mythology.
This composer defined Hollywood music in the Golden Age of the major studios. Despite his numerous accolades, however, he lost the Academy Award. If sheer musical girth had been a factor, he certainly would have won-timing in at just under four hours of music. This civil war epic was only one of the twelve films on which he worked in the same year!
This composer defined Hollywood music in the Golden Age of the major studios. Despite his numerous accolades, however, he lost the Academy Award. If sheer musical girth had been a factor, he certainly would have won-timing in at just under four hours of music. This civil war epic was only one of the twelve films on which he worked in the same year!
This composer was to compose a set of incidental music for a Russian production of one of the greatest plays ever written. While he was exhausted after just finishing one of his monumental operas, he agreed and began work on this piece in 1888. He would eventually compose two separate sets of music based on this play.
This composer was to compose a set of incidental music for a Russian production of one of the greatest plays ever written. While he was exhausted after just finishing one of his monumental operas, he agreed and began work on this piece in 1888. He would eventually compose two separate sets of music based on this play.
can you name this tune? Go to the land of balalaikas and Boris Godunov and see what you can come up with…
can you name this tune? Go to the land of balalaikas and Boris Godunov and see what you can come up with…
Ether Game asks: can you name this tune? It’s a musical tradition at graduations everywhere!
Ether Game asks: can you name this tune? It’s a musical tradition at graduations everywhere!
Although this composer is best known for his film work, his career began in radio, and eventually stretched to include both concert music and television. Although the grotesque, disturbing, and violent film didn’t please the director’s studio, both filmmaker and composer had a way of getting what they wanted…
Although this composer is best known for his film work, his career began in radio, and eventually stretched to include both concert music and television. Although the grotesque, disturbing, and violent film didn’t please the director’s studio, both filmmaker and composer had a way of getting what they wanted…
This music was prominently featured in a film about the intoxicating power of chocolate, and how it shook up a small French town. Things are further complicated when gypsy guitarist finds his way ashore.
This composer wrote over 100 pieces featuring this instrument. That’s because it was his employer’s instrument of choice. It seems that his patron wasn’t so good at it. The most adept players would have been able to play a melody and accompany themselves at the same time, but this composer kept it simple to keep the benefactor happy.
This music was prominently featured in a film about the intoxicating power of chocolate, and how it shook up a small French town. Things are further complicated when gypsy guitarist finds his way ashore.
This composer wrote over 100 pieces featuring this instrument. That’s because it was his employer’s instrument of choice. It seems that his patron wasn’t so good at it. The most adept players would have been able to play a melody and accompany themselves at the same time, but this composer kept it simple to keep the benefactor happy.
This music honors an Austrian king. It was written to accompany a play about an older Hungarian king. The composer wrote this piece while taking a “rest cure” at a spa, as wars raged through Europe.
This music honors an Austrian king. It was written to accompany a play about an older Hungarian king. The composer wrote this piece while taking a “rest cure” at a spa, as wars raged through Europe.
A few weeks after writing the text to this final opera in his epic sage, the composer was persuaded that his draft assumed too much background knowledge to the story, so he added a prologue to bring the audience up to speed on the plot. Ultimately, everything is destroyed, and the listener ends up where they started nearly 16 hours before.
A few weeks after writing the text to this final opera in his epic sage, the composer was persuaded that his draft assumed too much background knowledge to the story, so he added a prologue to bring the audience up to speed on the plot. Ultimately, everything is destroyed, and the listener ends up where they started nearly 16 hours before.
When this comic play was translated for an operatic audiences and the Austrian stage, the location was from a cafe to something more familiar to Viennese audiences, a splendid ball!
When this comic play was translated for an operatic audiences and the Austrian stage, the location was from a cafe to something more familiar to Viennese audiences, a splendid ball!
This selection and its companions were written when the composer returned to his hometown after a few years away. Accompanying this work is a group of corresponding sonnets, likely written by composer. The words that complement this selection describe biting snow, stinging winds and ice, and the music evokes these frosty characteristics.
This selection and its companions were written when the composer returned to his hometown after a few years away. Accompanying this work is a group of corresponding sonnets, likely written by composer. The words that complement this selection describe biting snow, stinging winds and ice, and the music evokes these frosty characteristics.
He premiered the original four-hand version of this work at a private gathering of friends, with the wife of his mentor performing the other part. Famously, they formed a deep emotional involvement after his mentor’s death, and many have speculated that his four-hand music might have purposefully included numerous “romantic” hand-crossings…
He premiered the original four-hand version of this work at a private gathering of friends, with the wife of his mentor performing the other part. Famously, they formed a deep emotional involvement after his mentor’s death, and many have speculated that his four-hand music might have purposefully included numerous “romantic” hand-crossings…
During the Enlightenment numerous groups popped up all over Europe where intelligent men could meet and discuss the ups and downs of society. The composer of this selection was a member of one such group. For one of his last works, he got together with his friend and fellow secret society member to create a "fantasy opera" for the stage.
During the Enlightenment numerous groups popped up all over Europe where intelligent men could meet and discuss the ups and downs of society. The composer of this selection was a member of one such group. For one of his last works, he got together with his friend and fellow secret society member to create a "fantasy opera" for the stage.
This concerto was begun on one side of the Atlantic and finished on the other. The composer’s trip began when he accepted a teaching position at an American conservatory. He was hired to encourage composers to draw from their own folk music. Eventually homesickness, writers’ block, and his employers’ inability to pay him forced him to return home.
This concerto was begun on one side of the Atlantic and finished on the other. The composer’s trip began when he accepted a teaching position at an American conservatory. He was hired to encourage composers to draw from their own folk music. Eventually homesickness, writers’ block, and his employers’ inability to pay him forced him to return home.
When this composer was a little boy, he and his friends had themselves an adventure by hiking up one of Europe’s most famous mountain range. He worked for eleven years on a work that would reflect his love of nature, resulting in a musical portrait of a hiker who describes what he experiences on own his incredible mountain journey.
When this composer was a little boy, he and his friends had themselves an adventure by hiking up one of Europe’s most famous mountain range. He worked for eleven years on a work that would reflect his love of nature, resulting in a musical portrait of a hiker who describes what he experiences on own his incredible mountain journey.
This composer was commissioned to write a piece for the graduation ceremonies at a local German university that had given him an honorary doctorate degree the previous year. In this selection, he not only includes academic tunes, but also several student drinking songs. The composer conducted this piece at the university’s graduation ceremony.
This composer was commissioned to write a piece for the graduation ceremonies at a local German university that had given him an honorary doctorate degree the previous year. In this selection, he not only includes academic tunes, but also several student drinking songs. The composer conducted this piece at the university’s graduation ceremony.
This symphonic poem depicts creepy nocturnal happenings and referred to the eve of a traditional religious holiday. When his colleagues disapproved of the work, the composer withdrew it, eventually working parts of it into a comic opera! Appearing in Walt Disney’s “Fantasia,” it has become one of the iconic examples of “scary” classical music.
This symphonic poem depicts creepy nocturnal happenings and referred to the eve of a traditional religious holiday. When his colleagues disapproved of the work, the composer withdrew it, eventually working parts of it into a comic opera! Appearing in Walt Disney’s “Fantasia,” it has become one of the iconic examples of “scary” classical music.
In 1873, a theater in Moscow was closed for renovations, and so the resident company made the Bolshoi Theater its temporary home. While there, they commissioned one of Russia’s most well-known composers to create the work re-telling of a popular Russian fairy tale about a princess with “wintry” magical powers.
In 1873, a theater in Moscow was closed for renovations, and so the resident company made the Bolshoi Theater its temporary home. While there, they commissioned one of Russia’s most well-known composers to create the work re-telling of a popular Russian fairy tale about a princess with “wintry” magical powers.
The piece was composed to commemorate victory over the forces of Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon’s older brother. This composer then arranged it for a full orchestra with two on-stage wind bands and full percussion to represent the two battling armies. The fully-orchestrated work was a huge crowd-pleaser at is premiere in 1813.
The piece was composed to commemorate victory over the forces of Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon’s older brother. This composer then arranged it for a full orchestra with two on-stage wind bands and full percussion to represent the two battling armies. The fully-orchestrated work was a huge crowd-pleaser at is premiere in 1813.
In this work, two prostitutes petition a biblical king in a child custody dispute, and the wise king saves the day with a crafty solution. This oratorio was the first of two written for the same London theatrical season. While the one we are hearing celebrates the virtue of wisdom, the other, with cuckoldry, is more like a biblical comic opera…
In this work, two prostitutes petition a biblical king in a child custody dispute, and the wise king saves the day with a crafty solution. This oratorio was the first of two written for the same London theatrical season. While the one we are hearing celebrates the virtue of wisdom, the other, with cuckoldry, is more like a biblical comic opera…
While this composer wrote for the concert hall, he also scored many films because the government wanted composers to work in media relevant to the masses. The original movie ending showed a school-teacher’s isolation from her community bringing about a tragic end. But this was ultimately changed to a happy (and more socially edifying) conclusion…
While this composer wrote for the concert hall, he also scored many films because the government wanted composers to work in media relevant to the masses. The original movie ending showed a school-teacher’s isolation from her community bringing about a tragic end. But this was ultimately changed to a happy (and more socially edifying) conclusion…
The composer and librettist went through plenty of trials and tribulations before this work's premiere. Among other problems, the censors demanded that a dance scene be removed. The premiere was delayed as the work was revised to appease the authorities, but it didn’t change too much: the boy gets the girl, and the royalty plays the fool.
The composer and librettist went through plenty of trials and tribulations before this work's premiere. Among other problems, the censors demanded that a dance scene be removed. The premiere was delayed as the work was revised to appease the authorities, but it didn’t change too much: the boy gets the girl, and the royalty plays the fool.
The composer went through many rewrites of this symphony. Fond of using allusions in his music, the composer uses a cheerful folk song, but shifts it into the minor key. One theme is a self-quotation from the composer’s own early song cycle, and an inscription in the score references a famous illustration used in many Austrian children’s books…
The composer went through many rewrites of this symphony. Fond of using allusions in his music, the composer uses a cheerful folk song, but shifts it into the minor key. One theme is a self-quotation from the composer’s own early song cycle, and an inscription in the score references a famous illustration used in many Austrian children’s books…
This famous story of gifts gone wild was not easy to compose: the composer suffered from severe writer’s block. He also had to take a transatlantic trip at the same time! The reason for his visit was to celebrate the opening of a famous American concert hall. When he finally got back home he got “cracking” on this work and finished the next year.
This famous story of gifts gone wild was not easy to compose: the composer suffered from severe writer’s block. He also had to take a transatlantic trip at the same time! The reason for his visit was to celebrate the opening of a famous American concert hall. When he finally got back home he got “cracking” on this work and finished the next year.
This stage work was a modernized version of an old-fashioned social satire. The composer went on to write both for the concert hall and the Broadway stage. Intended as a flagrant assault on middle-class morals, the work backfired and turned into a pop culture hit with the very same audience it was attempting to ridicule!
This stage work was a modernized version of an old-fashioned social satire. The composer went on to write both for the concert hall and the Broadway stage. Intended as a flagrant assault on middle-class morals, the work backfired and turned into a pop culture hit with the very same audience it was attempting to ridicule!
As a young man, this composer possessed a great ability at cricket, which helped him escaped much bullying. The same cannot be said of the title character of this opera. The audience is often left wondering whether it was a series of unfortunate events or the doing of a sociopath!
As a young man, this composer possessed a great ability at cricket, which helped him escaped much bullying. The same cannot be said of the title character of this opera. The audience is often left wondering whether it was a series of unfortunate events or the doing of a sociopath!
This arrangement of a popular folk song demonstrates the composer’s unconventional approach to music. He looked at folk music as a more genuine style, free from the traditions and strictures of “art music.” And because of this freedom, he was able to freely experiment with many innovative ideas years before they were approached by other composers.
This arrangement of a popular folk song demonstrates the composer’s unconventional approach to music. He looked at folk music as a more genuine style, free from the traditions and strictures of “art music.” And because of this freedom, he was able to freely experiment with many innovative ideas years before they were approached by other composers.
This music is used to celebrate one of the happiest occasions in many people’s lives, but it was intended to depict comes about after some fairy trickery, a little shape-shifting, and a lot of laughs. The composer found inspiration in an overture he had written on the same subject when he was just 17.
This music is used to celebrate one of the happiest occasions in many people’s lives, but it was intended to depict comes about after some fairy trickery, a little shape-shifting, and a lot of laughs. The composer found inspiration in an overture he had written on the same subject when he was just 17.
The performers of this composer’s operas often didn’t even see the final version of their music until hours before the curtain went up. This chorus has such a memorable melody that it has frequently been suggested as a national anthem for one Mediterranean country.
The performers of this composer’s operas often didn’t even see the final version of their music until hours before the curtain went up. This chorus has such a memorable melody that it has frequently been suggested as a national anthem for one Mediterranean country.
The story behind this virtuoso composer and his auspicious beginnings has been the source of fact AND rumor since his own time. It was one of history’s first “stage parent” situations. With a little encouragement from his father, this little tyke started his performing and writing before many of his peers where speaking in complete sentences.
The story behind this virtuoso composer and his auspicious beginnings has been the source of fact AND rumor since his own time. It was one of history’s first “stage parent” situations. With a little encouragement from his father, this little tyke started his performing and writing before many of his peers where speaking in complete sentences.
This composer was a staunch pacifist who had moved to the USA in frustration as Europe moved inevitably towards the Second World War. While his discovery of an old poem by a long-dead countryman provided the basic plot, his personal and political convictions also came into the picture.
This composer was a staunch pacifist who had moved to the USA in frustration as Europe moved inevitably towards the Second World War. While his discovery of an old poem by a long-dead countryman provided the basic plot, his personal and political convictions also came into the picture.
The composer of this selection was fortunate enough to establish a name for herself as a concert pianist long before she one of history’s great composers.
The composer of this selection was fortunate enough to establish a name for herself as a concert pianist long before she one of history’s great composers.
The whistled motive from this film has become nearly synonymous with climactic Old West showdowns, even though the film that it graces was made well after the golden age of Hollywood Westerns. The composer scored countless Westerns in this peculiar international style, making his reputation abroad…
The whistled motive from this film has become nearly synonymous with climactic Old West showdowns, even though the film that it graces was made well after the golden age of Hollywood Westerns. The composer scored countless Westerns in this peculiar international style, making his reputation abroad…
Legend says that this composer dreamed the Devil appeared to him and played the violin with such virtuosity that the composer felt his breath taken away. When the composer awoke he desperately tried to recapture what he had heard in the dream. He always felt that it came nowhere close to capturing the demonic music he had heard in his vision.
Legend says that this composer dreamed the Devil appeared to him and played the violin with such virtuosity that the composer felt his breath taken away. When the composer awoke he desperately tried to recapture what he had heard in the dream. He always felt that it came nowhere close to capturing the demonic music he had heard in his vision.
Prior to this composer’s marriage, several lengthy periods of separation from his beloved amplified the swings between prolific creativity and difficult dry periods which were already part of his intense personality.
Prior to this composer’s marriage, several lengthy periods of separation from his beloved amplified the swings between prolific creativity and difficult dry periods which were already part of his intense personality.