We all struggle with how to cope when we lose someone we care about. So how do musicians use those universal feelings to tell stories about death and grief? This episode looks at some moving examples, including music from songwriter Chalino Sánchez, composer Benjamin Britten and the musical Dear Evan Hansen.
And just a quick note: this episode is a little sadder than most of our episodes, so you might feel some strong feelings if you listen.
Stuff to think about after you’ve listened:
Ready to explore more musical stories about death? Check out our playlists on Spotify or Apple Music.
This is one of eight Music Blocks episodes exploring how musicians use sound to tell stories about our lives. You can listen in any order. Find more episodes, discussion questions and playlists at MusicBlocksPodcast.org.
Tell us how you're using Music Blocks in the classroom or at home, or share your playlists and music creations inspired by the podcast! Email us: [email protected]
Music Blocks is a production of Colorado Public Radio's Audio Innovations Studio.
Hosts: Rebekah Romberg and Luis Antonio Perez
Lead producer: Rebekah Romberg
Education Advisor: Carla Aguilar, Ph.D.
Additional production and editing: Jo Erickson, Erin Jones, Emily Williams
Executive Producer: Brad Turner
Thank you: Monika Vischer and David Ginder at CPR Classical, Willobee Carlan at Indie 102.3, Jodi Gersh, Kim Nguyen, Mia Rincón, Clara Shelton, Hart Van Denburg, Jon Pinnow, Doug Clifton and all the teachers, parents and students who listened and helped us develop this podcast.
It takes a good day’s drive to cover Colorado, but we’ll help you do it in a few minutes. Our newsletters bring you a closer look at the stories that affect you and the music that inspires you.
Colorado Postcards are snapshots of our colorful state in sound. They give brief insights into our people and places, our flora and fauna, and our past and present, from every corner of Colorado. Listen now.