Now Hear This

Watch Now Hear This

  • 2019
  • 3 Seasons
  • 9.2  (68)

Now Hear This is a captivating classical music series that premiered on PBS in 2019. This documentary-style show is hosted by Scott Yoo, a world-renowned violinist, who takes viewers on a journey through time and space to explore the origins and history of some of the most iconic musical pieces from all over the world. Throughout the series, Yoo teams up with some of the most talented musicians across the globe, including Alice Dade on flute and Aldo Gentileschi on guitar. Together, they embark on a musical adventure that brings them to some of the most iconic landmarks throughout Europe and the Americas. Each episode of Now Hear This focuses on a particular classical work, such as the Magic Flute by Mozart or Beethoven's Fifth Symphony. Yoo takes viewers through a detailed exploration of each piece, discussing their origin stories, innovations, and cultural symbolism. What sets Now Hear This apart from other classical music shows is its focus on the cultural and historical context of each piece. Yoo expertly weaves in anecdotes about the life and times of the composers, their influences, and their relationships with their patrons and other artists. The musicians also discuss the role of the music in the societies of the day and how it was perceived by different audiences. Another unique feature of the show is the use of 3D graphics and animations to illustrate the music's structure and compositional elements. This helps viewers understand the mechanics of the music and pick out the key themes and motifs that make each masterpiece unique. The performances by the musicians are also a highlight of Now Hear This. The artists' passion for their craft and their enthusiasm for the music they are playing are evident in every note. The episodes include snippets of interviews with the musicians, where they discuss their experiences learning and performing the pieces, as well as their views on the significance of the music in their own lives. The show generally follows a format where Yoo introduces the piece and sets the scene for the audience. The musicians then perform the piece in different settings, ranging from concert halls and cathedrals to libraries and gardens. The musicians are often joined by local orchestras or ensembles, adding another layer of cultural diversity to the performances. Overall, Now Hear This is a fascinating and visually stunning show that would appeal to classical music lovers and newcomers alike. The show's exploration of the rich history and cultural significance of each piece adds a level of depth to the music that is often missing from other shows. The use of animations and 3D graphics makes the music itself more accessible and helps the audience appreciate the complex structures and harmonic elements of the compositions. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or simply curious about this timeless art form, Now Hear This is a captivating journey through the history, culture, and beauty of some of the most iconic musical works ever composed.

Now Hear This
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Seasons
New American Voices
4. New American Voices
April 29, 2022
Scott Yoo discovers how American composers are inspired by their immigrant roots today through two composers: Brazilian-born Sergio Assad and Indian American Reena Esmail.
Copland: Dean of American Music
3. Copland: Dean of American Music
April 22, 2022
Scott Yoo explores the life and work of Aaron Copland, and how he created the American sound.
Florence Price and the American Migration
2. Florence Price and the American Migration
April 15, 2022
From Little Rock to Chicago, host Scott Yoo follows the trail of the great African American composer Florence Price.
Amy Beach, American Romantic
1. Amy Beach, American Romantic
April 8, 2022
Host Scott Yoo and his wife, flutist Alice Dade, perform the work of Romantic era classical composer Amy Beach at Festival Mosaic and uncover Beach’s many musical influences. Featuring performances of Beach’s works, the duo visits places Beach took inspiration from throughout her life, including an artist residency at MacDowell in New Hampshire.
Description

Now Hear This is a captivating classical music series that premiered on PBS in 2019. This documentary-style show is hosted by Scott Yoo, a world-renowned violinist, who takes viewers on a journey through time and space to explore the origins and history of some of the most iconic musical pieces from all over the world.

Throughout the series, Yoo teams up with some of the most talented musicians across the globe, including Alice Dade on flute and Aldo Gentileschi on guitar. Together, they embark on a musical adventure that brings them to some of the most iconic landmarks throughout Europe and the Americas.

Each episode of Now Hear This focuses on a particular classical work, such as the Magic Flute by Mozart or Beethoven's Fifth Symphony. Yoo takes viewers through a detailed exploration of each piece, discussing their origin stories, innovations, and cultural symbolism.

What sets Now Hear This apart from other classical music shows is its focus on the cultural and historical context of each piece. Yoo expertly weaves in anecdotes about the life and times of the composers, their influences, and their relationships with their patrons and other artists. The musicians also discuss the role of the music in the societies of the day and how it was perceived by different audiences.

Another unique feature of the show is the use of 3D graphics and animations to illustrate the music's structure and compositional elements. This helps viewers understand the mechanics of the music and pick out the key themes and motifs that make each masterpiece unique.

The performances by the musicians are also a highlight of Now Hear This. The artists' passion for their craft and their enthusiasm for the music they are playing are evident in every note. The episodes include snippets of interviews with the musicians, where they discuss their experiences learning and performing the pieces, as well as their views on the significance of the music in their own lives.

The show generally follows a format where Yoo introduces the piece and sets the scene for the audience. The musicians then perform the piece in different settings, ranging from concert halls and cathedrals to libraries and gardens. The musicians are often joined by local orchestras or ensembles, adding another layer of cultural diversity to the performances.

Overall, Now Hear This is a fascinating and visually stunning show that would appeal to classical music lovers and newcomers alike. The show's exploration of the rich history and cultural significance of each piece adds a level of depth to the music that is often missing from other shows. The use of animations and 3D graphics makes the music itself more accessible and helps the audience appreciate the complex structures and harmonic elements of the compositions.

Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or simply curious about this timeless art form, Now Hear This is a captivating journey through the history, culture, and beauty of some of the most iconic musical works ever composed.

Now Hear This is a series that is currently running and has 3 seasons (12 episodes). The series first aired on September 20, 2019.

Where to Watch Now Hear This

Now Hear This is available for streaming on the PBS website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Now Hear This on demand at Apple TV and PBS and.

  • Premiere Date
    September 20, 2019
  • IMDB Rating
    9.2  (68)