Throughout 2017, our Classical 101 hosts have blogged about anything and everything in the classical music realm — new musical works and old favorites, up-and-coming musicians and classical veterans, Central Ohio concerts and major performances around the world, and so much more.
Of the top 10 most-viewed Classical 101 blog posts this year, music education is a recurring theme. From children's books to music therapy to TBDBITL (and our incredibly successful musical instrument drive), our readers have a clear interest and investment in the next generation of musicians, proving that classical music is indeed alive and well.
1. 10 Great Children's Books about Classical Music
Interestingly, the top blog post is from 2015, but "10 Great Children's Books about Classical Music" has been going strong since it was published — perhaps because giving the gift of music never goes out of style.
2. Classical Guitarist Milos Karadaglic Stops Public Concerts
John Rittmeyer's post about Milos Karadaglic from 2016 saw a revival this year — and to be honest, we're not quite sure why it became so popular. But we do know that John knows his stuff when it comes to classical guitar, and he and his expertise will be greatly missed when we bid farewell to him.
3. Replay: FAQs About Classical 101's Instrument Drive
In August 2017, we were absolutely blown away by the generosity of the Central Ohio community. During Replay! we received 267 musical instrument donations, plus several pieces of equipment and accessories. Students in Columbus school music programs have already benefited from these donations. Thank you for supporting local music education!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWC785XDNcw
4. Benedict Cumberbatch Is In Everything. Even Classical Music.
This post by Jennifer Hambrick from early in the year speaks for itself. Because Benedict Cumberbatch is in everything — including this list.
5. Ohio State Marching Band's Classical Finale This Weekend
Christopher Purdy's ears perked up when he found out that one of our All Sides with Ann Fisher interns is a member of the Ohio State University Marching Band. So he asked trumpeter Dan Pozniak to take us behind the scenes of TBDBITL in preparation for their final performance of the 2017 home season.
6. 10 Pieces of Music that Can Change Your Life for the Better
Jennifer Hambrick reminded us of the positive power of music with her picks for life-changing pieces of classical music. And now, it's the perfect way to reset for the new year.
7. Watch: Music Therapy at Columbus' Bridgeway Academy, Part I
If you keep up with us on Facebook, you know we've been dipping our toes into more video production this year. In April, we had the pleasure of doing a three-part video series about the music therapy program at Bridgeway Academy, not far from Ohio State's campus. We learned a lot about on-site video production, but more importantly, we learned about the incredible kids, teachers and staff at Bridgeway.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9X9LCVSXL4
8. Remembering Maria Callas, 40 Years After Her Death
Christopher Purdy interviewed people who saw soprano Maria Callas perform at the height of her renowned opera career. We heard behind-the-scenes tidbits, interesting anecdotes and more.
9. 15 Great Children's Books About African-American Musicians and Dancers
Another enduring post about children's books, this one from 2016, showed up on this year's list. Great gift ideas handpicked by Jennifer Hambrick? Yes, please.
10. 'Please Stay': An 'Anthem for Hope' and Suicide Prevention
This composer-conductor interview and concert preview by Christopher Purdy tugged at our heartstrings for all the right reasons. If you missed this one back in March, give it a listen.
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