Fri, Apr 16, 2021
Beethoven in Beijing spotlights the resurgence of classical music in China through the legacy of the Philadelphia Orchestra, the first American orchestra to perform in China in 1973. Following the end of China's Cultural Revolution, when Western classical music was banned in favor of politically themed works, the onset of "Beethoven fever" began. Narrated by American and Chinese musicians and historians, the film explores the impact of the Philadelphia Orchestra's historic tour on China both then and now. Renowned musicians, including Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun, Philadelphia-trained famed classical pianist Lang Lang, Philadelphia Orchestra and Metropolitan Opera music director Yannick Nézet-Séguin and more share their stories of how Beethoven's music shaped their careers as China's classical music scene boomed. Featuring archival footage and first-person recollections from American and Chinese musicians, the documentary brings the 1973 visit to life alongside a behind-the-scenes look at present-day tours capturing the dynamism of China, from its new concert halls to its tens of thousands of young musicians.
Fri, Apr 23, 2021
This stylized film of Shakespeare's masterpiece from the National Theatre celebrates the theatrical imagination. In this contemporary retelling, a company of actors in a shuttered theater (due to the COVID-19 shutdown) bring to life the tale of two young lovers who strive to transcend a world of violence and hate. Josh O'Connor and Jessie Buckley star as Shakespeare's immortal star-crossed lovers.
Fri, May 7, 2021
This story begins as Sonya and her Uncle Vanya throw their lives into maintaining the crumbling family estate occasionally visited by the radical and inspiring local doctor, Astrov. However, when Sonya's father, Professor Serebryakov, suddenly returns with his restless, alluring new wife, Yelena, long-hidden truths begin to emerge.
Fri, Jul 9, 2021
Gloria Estefan journeys through three of Brazil's most influential cities, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Salvador, with Estefan as narrator and host, discussing the history of Samba and its many variations. Featuring regional celebrities like Maria Rita, Carlinhos Brown and Jorge Arãgo, the documentary looks at the African origins of Brazilian music and specific sites that have inspired artists.
Fri, Jul 16, 2021
Host Sheila E. joins us in celebrating the rhythms of Latin music with the Raices Jazz Orchestra and performances by GRAMMY-winning artists including Richard Bona and Anaadi. This program is a co-presentation of Great Performances and the Latino Public Broadcasting VOCES, which is PBS' signature Latino arts and culture documentary showcase and the only ongoing national television series devoted to exploring and celebrating the rich diversity of the Latino cultural experience.
Fri, Aug 27, 2021
Enjoy the Vienna Philharmonic's annual summer night concert with pianist Igor Levit under the direction of guest conductor Daniel Harding at Austria's Schönbrunn Palace. Musical selections: 1. Overture to "The Sicilian Vespers" (Giuseppe Verdi). 2. Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43 (Sergei Rachmaninoff). 3. Für Elise (Ludwig van Beethoven). 4. Symphonic Dances from "West Side Story", including "Prologue," "Somewhere," "Scherzo," "Mambo" (Leonard Bernstein). 5. Prelude to "The Afternoon of a Faun" (Claude Debussy). 6. "Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity" from "The Planets," Symphonic Suite, Op. 32 (Gustav Holst). 7. Viennese Spirit Waltz (Johann Strauss II).