New Classical Tracks with Julie Amacher

A fan of Niccolo Pagaini since she was a child, Rachel Barton Pine released all of the Paganini Caprices on a new recording she calls, 'Bel Canto,' which means 'beautiful singing.' Hear more about the new recording, about Rachel's longtime fascination with Pagaini, and how Rachel's husband lent an idea for rehearsal, all in this New Classical Tracks extended podcast.

Yo-Yo Ma has been part of the classical musical evolution for decades. His exploration continues with a new recording of Bach Trios featuring the unusual combination of cello, double bass and mandolin. Yo-Yo Ma says he's thrilled to be joined by the genius of Edgar Meyer and Chris Thile.

Howard Shore has recorded and composed music for about 80 films, including J.R.R. Tolkien's massive trilogy, 'The Lord of the Rings.' These days, Shore says he's writing more concert music, and he's just released a new recording featuring two of his concertos. In this extended podcast, Shore talks about composing music for the Lord of The Rings Trilogy, his work during the early days of Saturday Night Live, and more. (Updated audio)

Howard Shore has recorded and composed music for about 80 films, including J.R.R. Tolkien's massive trilogy, 'The Lord of the Rings.' These days, Shore says he's writing more concert music, and he's just released a new recording featuring two of his concertos. In this extended podcast, Shore talks about composing music for the Lord of The Rings Trilogy, his work during the early days of Saturday Night Live, and more.

With the release of his most recent recording, 'Tharaud plays Rachmaninov,' French pianist Alexandre Tharaud invites you into his childhood dream.

One of the greatest violinists of our time is celebrating her 40th anniversary as a performer. So, what, you might be thinking, surprises Anne-Sophie Mutter the most about this accomplishment? "That there is so my repertoire out there that I haven't started yet!" she says. In this extended podcast, learn more about the new recording, and hear Anne-Sophie talk about her 40-year career; the golden shoes that affected the way she performs today; and her foundation which supports young artists.

What if Mozart went to Havana? Simone Dinnerstein decided to find out. Dinnerstein traveled to Cuba at the invitation of Solomon Mikowsky -- the result of which is a recording of works by Mozart with the Havana Lyceum Orchestra.

New Classical Tracks: Simone Dinnerstein, 'Mozart in Havana'

On this new recording, the Emerson String Quartet explore the affinity between two of England's best-known composers, Henry Purcell and Benjamin Britten. It's hard to believe this music spans almost three centuries.

The power of the arts lies in the imagination of artists like Osvaldo Golijov and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. Their creative minds -- combined with those in the Brooklyn-based ensemble, The Knights -- helped to create the wonder and the beauty found on a new recording named for Golijov's transcendent piece, 'Azul.'