A Zen master or an expert on chance? A specialist in mushrooms or a per­formance artist? The inventor of new sounds or a cook? An author or an anarchist? John Cage was all of these things. This documentary by Oscar-winner Allan Miller and Emmy-winner Paul Smaczny pays tribute to the most fascinating American avant-garde composer John Cage. Shot in America, Germany and Japan, the program presents rare archival footage and features interviews with Yoko Ono, David Tudor, Christian Wolff, Steffen Schleiermacher, Irvine Arditti, Toshio Hosokawa, Mayumi Miyata, Calvin Tomkins and many others.

This documentary by Oscar-winner Allan Miller and Emmy-winner Paul Smaczny pays tribute to the fascinating American avant-garde composer John Cage.

John Cage: Journeys in Sound

A critically acclaimed film uncovering the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Frédéric Chopin, who composed some of the most profound and powerful music ever written.

Over four years, award-winning filmmaker Phil Grabsky traveled Europe interviewing renowned historians and musicologists to piece together a comprehensive profile of Chopin's life. Performances and insights from world-class musicians, including Daniel Barenboim, Leif Ove Andsnes, and Ronald Brautigam, reveal the genius of a pianist unparalleled in his generation.

Despite his groundbreaking fluidity and expressiveness at the piano, Chopin gave only 30 public concerts in his short life. Yet his music continues to fill concert halls worldwide, and his grave in Paris remains a revered pilgrimage site. Narrated by Juliet Stevenson and featuring RSC actor David Dawson voicing Chopin’s letters, this documentary captures the essence of one of history's greatest composers.

A shy virtuoso and tortured genius, whose music continues to enchant. Journey through the life and loves of Frédéric Chopin.

In Search of Chopin

Prepare to be swept away by director Phil Grabsky's multi-sensory exploration of the genius of Franz Joseph Haydn.

Haydn's life spanned a musical revolution, bridging the Baroque and Romantic eras. This film, narrated by Juliet Stevenson, uncovers his world, his inspirations, and his prolific output—over 100 symphonies, 64 string quartets, and beloved oratorios like “The Creation” and “The Seasons."

"In Search of Haydn" isn't just a chronological biography. It places Austria’s "Father of the Symphony" center stage, showcasing captivating performances and offering a rich understanding of Haydn's artistic process through his own writings. It underscores a master composer instrumental in the development of chamber music who inspired both Mozart and Beethoven.

He was Beethoven’s tutor, Mozart’s friend, and a master composer. Delve into the life and legacy of Franz Joseph Haydn. 

In Search of Haydn

This poignant documentary tells the story of Latvian Maestro Mariss Jansons, painting a portrait of the man and his music-making through the four orchestras that were central to his life: the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, the Concertgebouworkest, and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra. 

It's impossible not to feel Jansons' infectious passion for music in every performance. Discover his musical legacy as seen through the eyes of the musicians he led as Music Director or Chief Conductor. Through specially filmed performances, archival footage, and exclusive interviews see the indelible mark Jansons left on these orchestras and the the world of music. Each orchestra contributes a specially filmed performance dedicated to the mighty Maestro. 

Discover the musical legacy of Maestro Mariss Jansons as told by the four orchestras central to his legacy.

Mariss Jansons: A Tale of Four Orchestras

Get to know superstar German tenor, Jonas Kaufmann in this all-access documentary.

Hailed as “the world’s greatest tenor” by The Telegraph, Kaufmann is renowned for his impeccable vocal technique, charismatic stage presence, and mastery of Garman, Italian, and French repertoire. See what really goes on in the life of an opera singer and follow Kaufmann from rehearsals at the Royal Opera House, where he prepares for the titular role in Verdi’s Otello, to green rooms around the world, and even for a pit stop at Fortnum & Mason for Kaufmann’s favorite honey.  


Get to know superstar Graman tenor, Jonas Kaufmann in this all-access documentary.

Jonas Kaufmann: Tenor for the Ages

This documentary is a privileged peek into the private Palm Springs lifestyle of the worldwide music icon Frank Sinatra. 

For Frank Sinatra, Palm Springs was a desert oasis. His Rancho Mirage compound on Frank Sinatra Drive was the home he called “My Heaven”.  Palm Springs still feels the ghost of Frank Sinatra.

Go behind the curtain of Sinatra’s luxe desert lifestyle. Featuring the last interview from his late wife Barbara, with very personal memories told by his opening act partner and very close friend Tom Dreesen, and many never-before-told anecdotes by Latino singer and friend for 36 years Trini Lopez. With first-hand accounts and historical footage of Sinatra’s visits to some of his favorite places, this film is a real treat for Frank-ophiles and casual fans alike.

Get a privileged peek into the private Palm Springs lifestyle of the worldwide music icon Frank Sinatra. 

Sinatra in Palm Springs

In this heart-warming autobiographical documentary, get to know Welsh composer Karl Jenkins as he celebrates his 80th birthday.
 
With his roots in Jazz Rock's ''Soft Machine,'' his trademark friendly moustache, and gentle demeanor, Karl Jenkins is an unassuming giant of the choral world.  His choral works, with his made-up Adiemus language, have the unique ability to convey an emotional message to a mainstream audience, going beyond the boundaries of traditional classical music. His most famous work ''The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace'', is performed twice a week on average across the world.  

Discover a new appreciation for the world of choral music and the genius of Karl Jenkins. Sit down with Jenkins as he reflects on his unconventional career path and meet some of the people who have supported his music throughout his journey. 

In this heart-warming autobiographical documentary, get to know Welsh composer Karl Jenkins as he celebrates his 80th birthday.

Karl Jenkins: The Composer Behind the Moustache

From celebrated ensemble to targets in hiding, this is the story of Afghanistan's first all-female orchestra now fighting for its survival. Can they keep their music alive?

Following the War on Terror, Zohra soared to international acclaim. These talented women became symbols of hope and freedom, but their success made them prime targets for extremists.

When the Taliban seized control in 2021, their oppressive views on women and music placed the ensemble in grave danger, forcing some members into hiding. Scattered and fearful, they now face an uncertain future. Meanwhile, those who escaped abroad fought tirelessly for the rescue of their bandmates. Their unwavering spirit binds them. Exclusive interviews with the young musicians, their founder, and teachers reveal their desperate plight.

Afghanistan's first all-female orchestra raises its instruments in defiance of the Taliban determined to prove music can conquer fear.

Keeping the Music Alive

Join Maestro Leonard Bernstein for his 1971 performance of Mahler's Ninth Symphony with the Vienna Philharmonic. 

In a way only he can, Bernstein takes us through the entire symphony sharing insight, listening guides, and a peek into the rehearsal process for such a monumental piece. Filmed in 1971, just five years before his landmark performance with the London Symphony Orchestra in Ely Cathedral, this concert documentary is a rare glimpse of Bernstein in his prime. 

Join Maestro Leonard Bernstein for his 1971 performance and discussion of Mahler's Ninth Symphony with the Vienna Philharmonic. 

Leonard Bernstein: Four Ways To Say Farewell

An exquisitely shot documentary tracing the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, journeying to the heart of old Europe and the essence of genius itself.

Mozart's music, renowned for its complexity and revolutionary impact, redefined musical styles and transformed live performance. Director Phil Grabsky delves deep into his brilliance through insights from leading musicologists like Jonathan Miller and Nicholas Till, and performances by world-class artists including Renée Fleming, Lang Lang, and the Vienna Philharmonic.

Narrated by Juliet Stevenson, with Samuel West lending his voice to the composer, a vivid new portrait of Mozart emerges. The film explores the profound connections between his personal life and his musical innovations that forever changed classical music.

Powerful performances and expert analysis help set the record straight, literally and figuratively, “In Search of Mozart.” 

In Search of Mozart

This beautifully crafted feature documentary delves beneath the mythical image of a tormented, cantankerous genius to uncover the real Ludwig van Beethoven.

Over 100 expert interviews were conducted with musicians, critics, and musicologists in the making of this film. Narrated by Juliet Stevenson, with David Dawson reading from the composer’s letters, it presents a man far more interesting than the clichéd character fighting to overcome deafness and yearning for his immortal beloved.

The line-up of performers includes Emanuel Ax, Gianandrea Noseda, and Sir Roger Norrington, and concludes with an excellent rendition of the “Ninth Symphony” by the Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century, conducted by its founder, Frans Brüggen.

“In Search of Beethoven” has been hailed as the best film ever made about the German composer and pianist and is the choice of the Beethoven Haus Museum in Bonn (Beethoven’s birthplace).

This acclaimed documentary dispels centuries of myths to unveil the true genius of Ludwig van Beethoven. 

In Search of Beethoven

With a career spanning over 40 years, composer Hans Zimmer’s music has had an unmistakable impact on cinema. This documentary unearths the secrets of his ground-breaking compositions as told by Zimmer and his close friends and collaborators. 

From his first stand-out score for ''Rainman'' to family-friendly hits like ''The Lion King'' and big blockbuster franchises like ''The Pirates of the Caribean'' and ''The Dark Night Rises'', Zimmer's music has redefined the modern movie score. Catch a firsthand glimpse of Zimmer's creative process as he creates a new score for the BBC's "David Attenborough's Frozen Planet II".  Along the way, Zimmer reflects on the pivotal moments that have shaped his journey, offering a compelling portrait of a visionary artist who continues to push the boundaries of musical storytelling.

Spend an hour with Hollywood's superstar composer, Hans Zimmer. 

Hans Zimmer: Hollywood Rebel

Bayreuth and Salzburg – the two most famous festival cities in the classical music world. Every year they outdo each other with artistic excellence and social glamour. Until a virus called “SARS-Cov-19” plunged the world into a deep crisis in early 2020 – and with it the festival cities. This documentary examines how Bayreuth and Salzburg dealt with the consquences of the Corona pandemic. How did the “Salzburg model” work, where a way was found to save the festival and limit the economic damage? And what does the cancellation of the Wagner Festival mean for Bayreuth and its artists?

Until a virus called “SARS-Cov-19” plunged the world into a deep crisis in early 2020 – and with it the festival cities.

Festival Cities and the Crisis

The documentary “Taking Risks” follows all aspects of the production of The Rake's Progress.

The documentary “Taking Risks” follows all aspects of the production of The Rake's Progress

Taking Risks

Some years before becoming King, Prince Charles explores the life and music of one of his favourite composers, Sir Hubert Parry.

Best known today for his tune Jerusalem, Parry was one of the leading lights in British music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work has inspired and influenced British greats like Edward Elgar and Ralph Vaughan Williams. 

In this insightful documentary, Prince Charles visits Westminster Abbey to hear the anthem I was glad, which he will hear again when processing into the Abbey for his coronation as King Charles III. Prince Charles also talks to musicians, musicologists, and members of Parry’s family to identify what makes Parry’s music sound English.

King Charles III explores the music of one of his favourite composers, Hubert Parry – famous for the tune of ‘Jerusalem’.

The Prince and The Composer

Embark on an uplifting odyssey with the documentary “Crossing Rachmaninoff”, as we follow the story of Italian-born pianist Flavio Villani on his remarkable journey towards a musical milestone. Witness Flavio’s determination as he prepares for his professional debut playing Rachmaninoff’s intricate Second Piano Concerto with the Orchestra Filarmonica della Calabria. From his studies in Auckland, New Zealand, to confronting his doubting family in southern Italy, Flavio’s pursuit of his passion unveils the true value of art, the power of self-belief, and the universal human desire for acceptance. Experience the transformative journey of a lifetime filled with soul-stirring music and heartfelt emotions. 

“Crossing Rachmaninoff” follows the story of pianist Flavio Villani as he prepares for his professional debut playing Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No.2 with the Orchestra  Filarmonica della Calabria.

Crossing Rachmaninoff

Tony Palmer's film was the first major exploration of the life and career of the great American soprano, Renée Fleming - for many the epitome of the modern-day diva. Share an intimate visit with Renée behind the scenes, at home and on stage as she rehearses and performs in Verdi's Otello and Requiem, and sings Strauss, Mozart, Dvorák, Korngold, Ellington, Gershwin, Puccini, Massenet, and Rachmaninoff.

ony Palmer's film was the first major exploration of the life and career of the great American soprano, Renée Fleming

Ladies and Gentlemen, Miss Renée Fleming

Former principal of The Royal Ballet and Strictly Come Dancing judge Darcey Bussell knows all too well what it takes to make it as a prima ballerina. In A Ballerina's Life (part 2 of this fascinating two-part collection) she gives an illuminating account of her own career from its earliest days. Accompanying clips, which include some of Bussell’s most lauded performances, provide a feast for the senses and make this a must-watch for enthusiasts.

Darcey Bussell gives an illuminating account of her own career from its earliest days.

Darcey Bussell: A Ballerina's Life

Recommendations

When a woman steps onto the conductor's podium, she is always one of "the first": the first to lead a world-class orchestra, the first to conduct the closing night of London's "Proms," the first to win the German Conductor Prize. It seems as though the world of orchestral conducting might finally be ready to change it's attitudes toward female conductors for good.

When a woman steps onto the conductor's podium, she is always one of "the first". Perhaps the times are finally changing.

Maestras: The Long Journey of Women to the Podium

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