47 Best Orchestra Podcasts to Listen to (2026)

Feast your ears on the musical classics of the east with MUSIC TALKS, the Middle Kingdom's mashup of classical music and in-depth discussions with some of China's most celebrated orchestral professionals. Experience the instruments, get some perspective, feel the pulse of antiquity. more

The Embrace Everything podcast series is an exploration and celebration of the music of Gustav Mahler. Throughout his life Mahler insisted that music had to, literally, embrace everything. This makes his compositions unusually rich in what they offer both audience and musicians. It's often delightfully quirky one moment and then deeply tragic the next. Mahler did not shy away from introducing the most low-brow, commonplace musical tune alongside the most radiantly sublime words in all of spiritual literature. Gustav Mahler meant what he said: music has to embrace everything.Each season of the series explores a different Mahler symphony. The series already includes more than 100 interviews with leading conductors, music scholars, and orchestral musicians—all of whom have extensive first-hand experience with the music, offering an abundance of insights into just what makes Mahler's music so unique. Additionally, comments from Mahler and his contemporaries are read by actors throughout the programs. Each episode explores how Mahler drew not just from the world of music but from the other arts, from the world of nature, and from life itself. Anything that attracted Mahler's attention was liable to find its way into the music. How did he do this? That's something each episode investigates.Interviews thus far include members of the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the Cleveland Orchestra, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Berlin Philharmonic, the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra of Amsterdam, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, the Vienna Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra.Embrace Everything has topped podcast charts around the world. The series reached #1 on the Apple Music Commentary, Music History, or Music charts in more than 25 countries and has won 15 international awards in the last three years. more

The Orchestra Teacher Podcast is a show for string and orchestra educators at every level. Hosted by veteran orchestra director Dr. Charles Laux, each episode features conversations with master teachers, clinicians, composers, and leaders in music education. Topics include string pedagogy, rehearsal techniques, program building, recruitment, and sustaining a successful orchestra program. The podcast features practical ideas, real experiences, and professional inspiration and is designed to support orchestra teachers in and beyond the classroom. more

Sticky Notes is a classical music podcast for everyone, whether you are just getting interested in classical music for the first time, or if you've been listening to it and loving it all your life. Interviews with great artists, in depth looks at pieces in the repertoire, and both basic and deep dives into every era of music. Classical music is absolutely for everyone, so let's start listening! Note - Seasons 1-5 will be returning over the next year. They have been taken down in order to be re-recorded in improved sound quality! more

Every story has a soundtrack. Cleveland Orchestra Musicians and Music Director Franz Welser-Möst share stories about the music that has shaped their lives. more

Unlock the secrets of classical music with Perfect Pitch the podcast that takes you on a journey through the centuries of timeless compositions. Whether you're a seasoned expert or a curious beginner, Perfect Pitch offers an accessible and relaxed exploration of the world's most beautiful classical works. Join us as we reveal fascinating stories behind the music and the composers who created them. With Perfect Pitch, you'll discover new insights into the classics and develop a deeper appreciation for the art form. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of classical music like never before! more

For more than 180 years, the New York Philharmonic has been making history here in the city we call home. The NY Phil Story: Made in New York is a podcast about the people, the music, and the city behind America's oldest orchestra. Host Jamie Bernstein takes you backstage and into the archives to hear the untold stories of the Philharmonic right from the very beginning. Each episode, we'll go behind the scenes of an iconic performance, speak to current Philharmonic musicians about how they carry on the orchestra's legacy, and hear the music that inspired it all. more

Professional musicians Sami Merdinian and Ian Loew are the co-hosts of Down the Pit, a podcast series that delves into the world of classical music, bringing in leading conductors, composers, and performers to the show, to demystify, promote increased accessibility for the genre, and analyze its future. Each episode will have an incredible guest, and through casual and fun conversations, we will dive into their fascinating lives. To become a Down the Pit supporter, please visit www.Anchor.FM/Down-the-Pit. more

Saxophonist and presenter YolanDa Brown and players from the London Philharmonic Orchestra pitch their thoughts on some of classical music's most-asked questions, with plenty of chit-chat and laughter along the way. Instagram: @londonphilharmonicorchestraTikTok: @lporchestraFacebook: @londonphilharmonicorchestraYoutube: @londonphilharmonicorchestra Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. more

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Audio Program Notes are accessible, interesting, and full of information about the works being performed by the CSO as well as the history and personalities behind the music.Download Program Note PDFs at cso.org/ProgramNotes. more

The stage is dark, but the conversation is just beginning. Welcome to Utah Symphony | Utah Opera's Ghost Light podcast, a behind the curtain look into the world of classical music and opera and the artists who make it. Hosted by Jeff Counts and Carol Anderson. Produced and edited by Robert Bedont. more

A podcast that explores classical music's relevance in our modern lives. Conductor Devin Patrick Hughes will share with you stories and conversations with musicians, composers, and artistic entrepreneurs that aim to unite us into one symphonic world. New episodes every other Monday. more

What's brewing backstage with the Orchestra. Tea with Netty is the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment's new podcast hosted by viola player Annette Isserlis (Netty). Over a cuppa (or something a little stronger...), Netty chats with a variety of conductors, players and other guests as she 'spills the tea' on the side of classical music you don't normally hear. more

Join hosts Lena and Alexandra for the No Clapping Between Movements? Podcast, where they dive into the world of symphonic music, featuring insightful interviews with musicians, conductors, and artists from all corners of the globe. Each episode explores the rich landscape of classical music, offering an in-depth look at the Olympia Symphony's concert season, while uncovering how music connects and shapes our lives. Lena, a self-proclaimed music neophyte, shares her passion for the arts and education - though she's left her childhood violin in the past to avoid tormenting the neighbors. Alexandra, an international conductor and musician, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. more

Join RSO Music Director and Conductor Clay Couturiaux and co-host Shanna Morin, Director of Audience Development, for behind-the-scenes conversations with guest artists and performances of the Richardson Symphony Orchestra. more

Music Makers is your ultimate backstage pass to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Join host Chelsey Norris each week to hear directly from a DSO Music Maker and discover what makes them tick… Or pluck. Or bow. You get it. These are the stories that don't make it into the concert programs or social media feeds. This is your chance to meet the real people who make the music happen on stage and off. more

Sarasota Orchestra's Concert Companion connects classical music fans with Orchestra musicians who share personal previews of concert programs coming up this season. By giving listeners a little something extra to take along to the performance, the Concert Companion aims to deepen patrons' appreciation of the works they'll enjoy live in the concert hall. You're invited to join each enriching adventure with an Orchestra musician as your friendly guide. more

Explore Calgary's classical music scene and get to know the Musicians of the Calgary Philharmonic. This show is an independent production of the Calgary Philharmonic Players Association. more

Dive into the world of music with us as we spotlight the talented musicians of Tompkins High School. Each episode, we'll bring you behind the scenes with exclusive interviews, and captivating stories, from our dynamic orchestras. Discover the passion and dedication that drives our students, from rehearsals and performances to special events and milestones. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a student, or just curious about high school orchestras, our podcast offers an insider's view into the rhythms and harmonies that shape our community. Podcast Host: Vicky & Rithik Editor: Vicky & Porter Producer: Mr. Porter more

With delightful tales and musical anecdotes from his storied career, Maestro Sir Donald Runnicles serves as host the of Live from the Grand Teton Music Festival, a series of 13 one-hour episodes. The series is co-hosted by GTMF's General Manager Jeff Counts, who previously hosted a film review segment seen and heard throughout the West. more

Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra together with our sponsor, Anthony Shefferly & Associates, welcome you to Mocktails & Masterpieces, a behind the scenes podcast about the ICO. more

A quick look into what's on stage this week at the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Each episode will take you behind the scenes, revealing the personal stories and perspectives that shape St. Louis Symphony Orchestra classical programs. Hosted by Assistant Conductor Samuel Hollister and featuring St. Louis Symphony Orchestra musicians, this short podcast is perfect for your drive to Powell Hall. more

Welcome to Inside the Music: The Reno Phil Podcast, where we discuss the concerts, events and other activities of the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra. Laura Jackson, Music Director and Conductor of the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra, and Chris Morrison, the Orchestra's program annotator, are your hosts for informal and informative talks about the music and guest artists for each of the Reno Philharmonic's performances. We'll get into the biographies of the composers, the history of the musical selections, the details of the music itself, and even some behind-the-scenes information about the Orchestra and classical music in general. It's a great way to prepare yourself for actually hearing the Orchestra in concert. more

Composer Daniel Perttu talks with orchestra conductors, administrators, and other musicians about what inspires them in their work, particularly as it pertains to the programming of contemporary orchestral music. more

'One of the musical wonders of the world' - The Guardian The Australian Chamber Orchestra travels a remarkable road. This 17-piece string orchestra lives and breathes music, making waves around the world for their explosive performances and brave interpretations. Steeped in history but always looking to the future, ACO programs embrace celebrated classics alongside new commissions, and adventurous cross-artform collaborations. more

Sympiphany is where the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra gets a little curious. Hosted by voices from the BSO family, this podcast invites musicians, creators, and listeners into honest, joyful conversations about the moments when music truly clicks. From unexpected musical epiphanies to pairing Beethoven with a bold red, we celebrate the stories, quirks, and questions that bring our community closer to music and to each other. more

Insights and anecdotes from musicians, dancers, artists, actors and directors, as well as audience response.

The Classical Music Minute is a short, engaging classical music podcast that explores the stories, composers, and curious traditions behind the world's greatest music. Ever wondered who the Florentine Camerata were? Where the conductor's baton came from? Or what the difference is between opera buffa and opera seria ? Hosted by Canadian composer and storyteller Steven Hobé , each episode offers a quick and entertaining journey through classical music history , uncovering fascinating facts about composers, famous works, opera, orchestras, and musical traditions. Whether you're a lifelong music lover or simply curious about classical music, hop around music history with Steven— one musical minute at a time. more

The Teaching Orchestra Podcast is hosted by Janet and Jessica, who are both public school orchestra teachers in Wisconsin. We discuss tips and tricks, best practice strategies, repertoire, and more. Occasionally we interview other professionals too. We aim to do this in an easy-to-listen-to and conversational format. If you're an orchestra teacher and want to learn ways to help your students even more, or just like to listen to fellow music teachers talk shop, then tune in!For show notes and other links that we discuss in our episodes, go to our website, teachingorchestrapod.com. more

This independent podcast highlights the rich musical heritage of the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra. Through historic performances, behind-the-curtain interviews and stories, ENCORES preserves and shares the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra's legacy with audiences in Alaska and beyond. more

The Canton Symphony Orchestra recognizes the need for change within the classical music world. For too long, the traditions of this art form have overlooked many communities whose voices and contributions deserve to be heard. As a regional orchestra, we believe that meaningful change begins right here within our own community. Through Orchestrating Change , we aim to open conversations that make the concert hall a more welcoming space for all, while fostering greater inclusion, representation, and diversity both on stage and beyond. more

The Rockford Symphony Orchestra Podcast aims to inform about our upcoming events and give insight into the behind-the-scenes happenings at the RSO. more

For more than 55 years, The Florida Orchestra has been a driving force for cultural arts in the Tampa Bay region. Every work of music, every musician, every composer has a story to tell. SoundWaves with The Florida Orchestra gives those stories a voice, so you can experience a deep, personal connection to the music during a concert or anytime. The non-profit Florida Orchestra is the largest orchestra in the state and the only arts organization that bridges Tampa Bay. TFO exists to INSPIRE UNITE EDUCATE as we build community through the power of music onstage and in our schools and community. With 71 full-time professional musicians and conductors, TFO performs more than 100 concerts a season, including a wide range of classical, popular, film, rock and family-friendly music. Performances are at three major performing arts venues: Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg, Straz Center in Tampa and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. For tickets and information: FloridaOrchestra.org more

Intervals and features from RTÉ lyric Live: National Symphony Orchestra, broadcast on RTÉ lyric fm each Friday at 7pm. more

Podcast by Australian Youth Orchestra

A podcast about the bits and pieces that make up a symphony orchestra, from the perspective of a very nerdy VP of Artistic/Bassist, my partner in crime, conductor Serena Reuten, and a variety of guests who love the Omaha Symphony, on-stage and off. danimeier.substack.com more

Welcome to the audio version of the Reno Chamber Orchestra's program notes! Subscribe to our podcast and be updated for each concert, and have an opportunity in advance of the performance to listen to the audio version of our program notes! more

Lincoln's Symphony Orchestra will present inspiring experiences that welcome all members of our community to discover and cultivate a profound, personal connection with live orchestral music. more

Lively conversations at the intersection of music, culture, and community. Join Music Director Paul Surapine and guests from The Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra and beyond as they share stories, insights, and laughs that keep the fire of tradition burning bright. From backstage banter to big-picture ideas, Classical Gassing celebrates the art, people, and passion that make our community sing.🎵 The Claflin Hill Symphony Orchestra Podcast more

Join the Wichita Falls Symphony Orchestra's music director and conductor, Fouad Fakhouri, as he goes behind the scenes with our talented musicians and guests to speak candidly about their musical journey and reveal interesting snippets about upcoming concerts. more

The Orchestra of the Swan Podcast offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look as we shine the spotlight on our incredible players, supporters, and the team who bring the Orchestra of the Swan to life. Led by Artistic Director David Le Page, we'll take you inside the inner workings of an orchestra, from conversations with our principal players, to exclusive rehearsal sneak peeks. Orchestra of the Swan strives to captivate audiences through a blend of experimentation with both classical and non-classical music, embracing our role as storytellers. Our commitment distinctive drives us to push creative boundaries, offering performances that are both innovative and unique. No pretentiousness here—no ball gowns or dinner jackets. Just people who love music and love playing it. Join us, get to know us, and follow our pod! The Orchestra of the Swan podcast is produced and supported by Cloudscape Media, and is copyright of the Orchestra of the Swan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. more

Lubbock Symphony ClefNotes is a weekly radio program highlighting concerts given by the LSO. The program also goes behind the scenes giving the listener a taste of how a modern symphony orchestra functions. You'll hear interviews with individual players, LSO Board members, staff, and long time patrons of the orchestra. Lubbock Symphony ClefNotes airs on Saturdays at 10am and Sundays at 7:30pm. more

Behind the Music: The S.O. Podcast takes you behind the music of the Summerville Orchestra. From conversations with musicians, composers and guest artists to our monthly Music Chat series, explore the stories, people and ideas that bring orchestral music to life. more

Ask The Maestro is your daily front-row seat to the hidden world of classical music. Conductor Robert Emery steps onto the podium to answer the questions you've always wondered about — from the drama of the orchestra to the secrets behind the score. Engaging and straight to the point, each episode uncovers the stories, traditions, and secrets of the concert hall — one question at a time. Listen daily and stay curious.Send your question to ****@robertemery.com more

Welcome to Orchestra Safari — your sound-packed journey into the wild world of musical instruments! Calling all curious kids and sharp-eared adventurers! Pack your imaginations and tune up your listening skills, as we take a journey into the musical heartlands with Orchestra Safari. In each episode, your two hosts guide you on a thrilling audio adventure through the soundscape of musical instruments. Hear mysterious noises, guess which instrument is making them, and discover cool facts, silly puns, and wild animal comparisons along the way! With real sound clips and fun storytelling, Orchestra Safari turns music into an instrumental expedition filled with surprises from deep inside the orchestra pit. So whether you're a budding musician or just curious about how music is made, jump onboard the Orchestra Safari — where every instrument has a sound, a story, and a creature sidekick! Orchestra Safari created by majelan studio . Hosted by Audiomeans. Visit audiomeans.fr/politique-de-confidentialite for more information. more

Join us for a conversation about the background and planning for the Athens Symphony in Athens, Georgia.

Whether you are an experienced classical listener, new to classical, or don't like or listen to classical music, this show is for you.Hosted by Beth Cohen, an orchestra and concert bands conductor, and a music educator and consultant with a PhD in music education. Beth will help you to engage and connect with classical music in a deeper and exciting new way. Find Listen to this! on Plains FM 96.9 Canterbury New Zealand every other Sunday evening at 6:00 PM or on Apple podcasts and Spotify.Facebook: listentothis!@plainsfm more