Inside the score

Notes from History: Verdi’s Falstaff Premiere

On February 9, 1893, Verdi’s Falstaff premiered at La Scala, Milan, turning into one of the year’s biggest cultural events. For the 79-year-old composer, it was both a bold return to comedy and a triumphant farewell.

By Paul Kilbey

Reading time estimated : 3min read

Notes from History: Brahms’s First Piano Concerto

Brahms’s First Piano Concerto was born from doubt, revision, and a rough premiere—but it became one of his greatest works. Here’s the story behind its long road to greatness.

By Paul Kilbey

Reading time estimated : 4min read