Apr 27th, 2007 · Mstislav Rostropovich left his mark both on the world of classical music and the musicians he played with. Music commentator Miles Hoffman played under Rostropovich for seven years. He tells Steven Inskeep that the maestro's hands were notable for more than their ability to work the cello.
Feb 2nd, 2007 · Jascha Heifetz and Fritz Kreisler were both born on Feb. 2 -- Kreisler in 1875 and Heifetz in 1901. But the men share more than just a birthday. Music commentator Miles Hoffman discusses the two fiddlers and how they each set new standards for the art of playing the violin.
Dec 28th, 2006 · For the final Morning Edition broadcast of the year, music commentator Miles Hoffman plays some of the greatest finales of classical music.
Nov 23rd, 2006 · If it's Thanksgiving, it must be time for another musical pun from Miles Hoffman. The music commentator joins Renee Montagne for a holiday review of drums, triangles and other percussive instruments.
Mar 10th, 2006 · A treasure trove of composers' manuscripts has been donated to Juilliard. The music school's collection of 139 priceless documents includes works by Beethoven, Brahms and Handel. Renee Montagne talks with Miles Hoffman about the collection's significance.
Jan 3rd, 2006 · Renee Montagne talks with music commentator Miles Hoffman about orchestra conductors and how you know a good one when you have one. In this New Year, many major symphony orchestras across the country are auditioning conductors or have recently hired new ones.
Nov 25th, 2005 · Even history's most famous composers raided their own works for themes and ditties to use in future works. They also borrowed from the works of their predecessors. Renee Montagne talks with music commentator Miles Hoffman about famous musical leftovers.
Jul 29th, 2005 · More composers than you might think have written thunder and lightning into their works, and commentator Miles Hoffman says when you stop to think about it, it makes sense. He discusses the theme of stormy weather in works by Antonio Vivaldi, Giuseppe Verdi and Johann Strauss.