The Classical Music Minute
The Classical Music Minute is a short, engaging classical music podcast that explores the stories, composers, and curious traditions behind the world’s greatest music.
Ever wondered who the Florentine Camerata were? Where the conductor’s baton came from? Or what the difference is between opera buffa and opera seria?
Hosted by Canadian composer and storyteller Steven Hobé, each episode offers a quick and entertaining journey through classical music history, uncovering fascinating facts about composers, famous works, opera, orchestras, and musical traditions.
Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or simply curious about classical music, hop around music history with Steven—one musical minute at a time.
The Classical Music Minute
Latest Episodes
When the Rules Were Broken: Music in the 20th Century | The Classical Music Minute
Tonality was challenged, rhythm reinvented, and technology introduced entirely new sounds. During the 20th century, classical music expanded in more directions than ever before.
When Music Became Personal: The Romantic Era | The Classical Music Minute
Bigger orchestras, richer harmonies, virtuoso performers, and a new emphasis on personal expression transformed music during the Romantic era.
The Age of Elegance and Order: The Classical Era | The Classical Music Minute
Clear melodies, balanced forms, and the rise of the symphony helped define the Classical era. It was the age of Haydn and Mozart—and of a young Beethoven beginning to push music in a new direction.
When Music Became Dramatic: The Baroque Era | The Classical Music Minute
Opera was born, instrumental music flourished, and major and minor keys became central to Western music. The Baroque era gave us some of classical music’s most enduring forms—and some of its greatest composers.
Mozart's Search for Independence | In Their Own Words, Part One: Mannheim
What was Mozart really like when the concert halls fell silent and he sat down to write to his family?In Their Own Words is a special series from The Classical Music Minute that explores the lives of history’s great com...