Victory and Valor

Valor and Victory is a music special looking at the anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe through the lens of classical music. The war and its aftermath inspired composers to reflect feelings and events of the time and this Special features music that honors the sacrifices of WWII and celebrates victory and the spirit of that era. The end of WWII in Europe is an incredibly important and resonant time in history, and classical music was a significant and sometimes surprising part of life during the war years and after. At a distance of 75 years, this special underscores the peril and power of the times and brings to life the role music played in a hard-won victory.

Join host Andrea Blain as you hear the voice of England's Prime Minister Winston Churchill and find out how Beethoven and Morse Code are forever linked with the hopes and dreams of many nations. There's music by Aaron Copland aimed at inspiring patriotism in America and Benjamin Britten's response to survivors of a concentration camp. Music was used to signal resistance and encourage survival during dark days, and music helped celebrate victory when the War in Europe was over.