Rod's Ramblings

Please leave a comment Ever wondered how an overheard debate in a restaurant could ignite a burning passion? That's exactly how my opera journey began. From the electrifying performance of "Sancta" that left Stuttgart buzzing to Beethoven's relentless struggle with "Fidelio," this episode navigates the captivating and sometimes tumultuous world of opera. We peel back...

Please leave a comment Discover the tantalizing mystery behind Beethoven's enigmatic "immortal beloved" letter and explore how the lost art of letter writing wove through the lives of classical composers like Mozart and Bach. As we reflect on the dramatic decline of traditional correspondence in the UK, you'll be transported to early 19th-century Vienna, where a web of intrigue...

Please leave a comment Unlock the secrets behind Modest Mussorgsky's transformative masterpiece, "Pictures at an Exhibition," and traverse a compelling narrative that intertwines music, art, and Russian cultural heritage. We'll guide you through the imaginative soundscapes of each movement, offering vivid stories and hidden meanings, while also revealing how Maurice Ravel and o...

Please leave a comment In this latest episode in the Harmonious Histories series we answer the question, 'What is the difference between a Sonata, a Concerto and a Symphony?'  We also include a bit of history along the way.  We discuss Beethoven's 'Moonlight Sonata', Vivaldi's 'Four Seasons' and The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment.  Music tracks are Br...

Please leave a comment In this episode of my Harmonious Histories series I talk about The Baroque Period, specifically the 2 composers, Handel and Bach.  There are sections about each composer along with a story of their disastrous meeting with John Taylor.  The final section outlines how Bach affected Walt Disney, Jazz and Techno. The musical pieces are: Messiah Encore and Baroque Passion by Cerc...

Please leave a comment In this episode of Rod's Ramblings I continue to share my discovery of classical music in the Harmonious Histories series.  I share the stories behind Beethoven's relationship with Napoleon, Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake and how Horrible Histories changed my attitude towards history. The theme music is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry and the music was...

Please leave a comment The first episode in My Classical Music Discovery Series - Harmonious Histories.   It covers the stories behind Beethoven's Fur Elise, the English Violinist George Bridgetower, one of Mozart's travels with his father, and a parody of Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. The theme tune is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry. The music is Fur Elise and Eine Kleine Nach...

Please leave a comment Exciting News! 🎧 I've uncovered the original audio files from the very first series of "Rod’s Ramblings" which was broadcast in 2022 and am thrilled to share them with you. Thus, I proudly present "The Rewind Series." Tom Petty's musical journey began in the bustling heart of Florida, a state known for its vibrant culture and powerful storms. A...

Please leave a comment Exciting News! 🎧 I've uncovered the original audio files from the very first series of "Rod’s Ramblings" which was broadcast in 2022 and am thrilled to share them with you. Thus, I proudly present "The Rewind Series."  What if the challenges and chaos in your life could be the very fuel for your creativity and success? Join me on Rod's Rambling...

Please leave a comment Following the 'accidental' loss of my original rambles, I am pleased to report that the recordings have been found and are being republished as part of The Rewind Series.  This episode was originally broadcast as Series 1 Episode 8.  In it, I talk about Peter Green's most expensive guitar, The biggest ever effects pedal and Seasick Steve.  Theme music is &apos...

Please leave a comment Exciting News! 🎧 I've uncovered the original audio files from the very first series of "Rod’s Ramblings" which was broadcast in 2022 and am thrilled to share them with you. Thus, I proudly present "The Rewind Series.  "Can you distinguish between a concept album and a rock opera? Discover the captivating world of rock musicals, concept albums, and r...

Please leave a comment In anticipation of Series 3 of Rod's Ramblings this is the episode from Series 1 regarding one of the best live albums ever recorded.  The episode contains contributions from the band members.  Brian Downey, Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson. Theme music is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry supplied by Epidemic Sounds. If you've enjoyed listening, pleas...

Please leave a comment In anticipation of Series 3 of Rod's Ramblings this is episode was originally broadcast in 2022.  In it I discuss my memories of the programme and include Bob Harris recalling his infamous run in with Sid Vicious. Theme tune is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry. Music supplied by Epidemic Sounds. If you've enjoyed listening please leave a message.  I&a...

Please leave a comment In anticipation of the launch of Series 3 this is the second ever episode, originally broadcast in 2022.  I talk about my memories of Blackfoot Sue, a local band, appearing on the show, The Elecrtic Light Orchestra, Alice Cooper and Salvador Dali. Theme music is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry. All music provided by Epidemic Sounds.   If you've enjoyed li...

Please leave a comment In recognition of Season 3 of Rod's Ramblings this episode, originally broadcast in 2022, covers the band from their inception through to the Lamb Lies Down on Broadway album, Peter Gabriel's outrageous stage outfits, the album Genesis Live, and the stories behind the songs, Get 'em out by Friday, The Musical Box, Return of the Giant Hogweed and Watcher of The...

Please leave a comment In anticipation of Series 3 of Rod's Ramblings this is the episode from series 1 regarding Kevin Rowland and Dexy's Midnight Runners.  It was originally broadcast in August 2022 following their appearance at The Commonwealth Games. Theme music is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry reproduced courtesy of Epidemic Sounds. If you've enjoyed listening...

Please leave a comment Exciting News! 🎧 I've uncovered the original audio files from the very first series of "Rod’s Ramblings" which was broadcast in 2022 and am thrilled to share them with you. Thus, I proudly present "The Rewind Series."  Imagine the thrill of unwrapping a vinyl album on your birthday, its grooves holding the promise of a lifelong journey. That's...

Please leave a comment In anticipation of Series 3 of Rod's Ramblings here is episode 11 of Series 1, Tom Petty, The Heartbreakers and The Travelling Wilburys. which was originally broadcast in July 2022. Theme music is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry reproduced courtesy of Epidemic Sounds. If you've enjoyed listening please leave a message.  I'd love to know what you...

Please leave a comment In anticipation of Series 3 of Rod's Ramblings, this is the very first episode, originally broadcast in 2022.  I discuss the first album I ever owned, and the famous introduction to the title track.  There are contributions from members of the band. Theme tune is 'Late Night Ramble' by River Run Dry. Music provided by Epidemic Sounds. If you've enjoyed li...

Please leave a comment Great news! Rod's Ramblings is back for a new season. Here is the trailer highlighting what the show is  about and inviting you to join me on my Classical Music discovery. Each episode will contain facts, stories and amusing anecdotes from the classical music world with a bit of great 'royalty free music thrown in. Theme music is 'Late Night Ramble' by Ri...