Follow the development and impact of classical music in the United States from its humble beginnings in the new colonies through its role in concert halls and Hollywood in the 20th century, to discover how this European tradition helped shape, and in turn was shaped by, American culture, composers and musicians.
Before you get started, think of what you already know about classical music. Keep this in mind as you listen, and note any things you learn that surprise you.
While Europe was alive with new, sophisticated works by Vivaldi, Bach, and Handel, America was a backwater. If you looked for classical music in the early days of America, you'd be hard-pressed to find it, even in the big cities and the centers of wealth, commerce, and social sophistication. But it was there; in far-flung locations including the backwoods of North Carolina and the Port of New Orleans.
This segment looks at some little-known stories about American Classical music like the role of Cuba in Classical Music and the American who made "Carmen" a hit. NPR's Miles Hoffman continues to lead us through the development of a uniquely American take on traditional European music.
Continuing our musical journey into the through the 20th Century, this segment explores how America took its place as force in the world of classical music; not so much through its experimental work but through the music of Hollywood movies. Miles Hoffman takes us through the early years of the last century and discusses where we can, sometimes unexpectedly, find new classical compositions today.
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This podcast discusses interesting aspects of the history of classical music in the United States, from the 18th to the 20th century, in three segments.
The first segment examines classical music in the 1700s and the early 1800s. From the New England School to the Moravians of North Carolina to the multicultural society of New Orleans, American music is illuminated. The podcast uses clips of music and interviews with musical history experts to present the surprising details of American classical music.
The second segment continues with the evolution of New Orleans as a center of classical music in America. The segment discusses the rise of traveling bands, the effect of the Civil War, and the increasing importance of – and influence of – folk music. We learn, too, about the ways in which American music influenced European music.
The third segment traces the development of a uniquely American style of classical music and the emergence of the United States as a force in global culture. The podcast also examines the sometimes underappreciated importance of African-Americans and Hollywood on American classical music.
Prior Knowledge and Preparation
Listeners with a fair background in U.S. History and geography will get the most from this resource.
Suggested activities will require the use of bulletin board paper or chart paper.
Instructional Strategies
There is no visual element for this item. Some people find it difficult to concentrate without visual or tactile input. To help students focus while listening, consider one or more of these activities:
Narrator
Miles Hoffman
Audio Producer
Richard Paul
Producer
Kenny Neal
Published
September 11, 2019
Discover the multicultural heritage and history of the United States of America through explorations of immigrant life, the lives of legendary pioneers like Lewis and Clark, the modern political system, and significant works of American music, including our National Anthem.
Renée Fleming and colleagues from the vocal fields of classical, musical theater, jazz, gospel, country, and pop lend their talents and expertise to an unprecedented journey of vocal discovery aimed at educating young singers and seasoned vocalists alike.
Meet great composers, explore the vast musical world of the orchestra, study the science behind the instruments, and discover how classical music is anything but boring.
Explore President Lincoln’s taste in music. The three parts address Lincoln’s love of the theater and popular music as well as the impact that music had on his political campaigns and presidency and the Civil War.
Looking to bolster your knowledge of classical music or simply trying to broaden your knowledge of music in general? Whatever your reason, here’s a different kind of musical hit list—our choices for the top 10 works in Western classical music for kids and their parents.
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