Voice of the Arts

Dean of Duquesne University's Mary Pappert School of Music, David Allen Wehr, joined Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning Show to talk about the second concert in his Music On the Bluff Series, The Dean's List Concert II: Violin/Horn.

David talks about his long-time correspondence with the Pittsburgh Symphony's Concertmaster, David McCarroll, and crafting this concert's program together. Included on the program are Beethoven's Sonata in D Major for Violin and Piano, Op. 12, no. 1 and Debussy's Sonata for Violin and Piano. The two will be joined by PSO French hornist William Caballero for Brahms' Horn...

Prime Stage Theatre presents Freedom House: Giving Life a Second Chance, which tells the story of the nation's first EMS system, started in Pittsburgh's Hill District neighborhood. Playwright L.E. McCullough joins Melissa Black to talk about the show.

L.E. explains the history of Freedom House Ambulance Service and the community members who came together to build its foundation. He also talks about being inspired to write the play after seeing WQED's documentary about Freedom House, The FIRST Responders. In addition to the play's run, there will be a post-show discussion on opening night, January 24th...

Third Presbyterian Church kicks off their Music at Third 2026 Spring Concert Series with "Under the Same Sky," a program interweaving Yiddish Tangos and fragments from the writings of Etty Hillesum. Lenny Young and Raquel Winnica Young joined Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning Show to talk about the concert.

Etty Hillesum was a Dutch Jewish writer known for her diaries and letters written while she worked for the Amsterdam Jewish Council and at Westerbork transit camp. Raquel talks about Etty's life and experience during the Holocaust, and combining her writings with music for this program. Lenny...

The second concert in Tuesday Musical Club's recital series, Folk Songs with a Classical Twist, is coming up on January 13th. Organizer Catherine Crotty, horn Barbara Folb, and trombone Justin Miller joined Jim Cunningham for a live performance and chat about the concert.

Catherine talks about the program, featuring Six Studies in English Folksong by Vaughan Williams; Four Folk Songs for Soprano, Viola and Piano, arranged by Alan Smith; Selections from "Five American Folk Songs Sketches," arranged by Brett Edwards; and Dvořák's famous Dumky Piano Trio, Op. 90. Catherine will play piano on the Dvořák for the...

Longtime friend of Classical QED Christopher O'Riley just released a new album of piano arrangements titled LOTUSLAND. He joined Jim Cunningham on Zoom for a deep dive into the record.

Christopher explains the title of the album, which comes from the historic estate of Madame Ganna Walska in Montecito, California, which is now a botanical garden. The artwork for this album compiles photographs taken at the Lotusland estate. The only un-arranged piece on the track-list is Cyril Scott's Lotus Land, Op. 47, No. 1. 

Christopher also talks about the making of the album, recording on a Böse...

The holidays are in full swing at the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh!

Jim Cunningham speaks with Senior Director of Marketing and Communications Stefanie Cedro Mohr and Carnegie Museum of Art Director of Education and Public Programs Dana Bishop-Root live on the QED Morning Show about how the Art and History Museums are spending the season.

Dana talks about Carnegie Trees, five firs located in the Hall of Architecture and coordinated by the Women's Committee. This year's theme is inspired by Jules Verne's Around the World in 80 Days, and the trees are accompanied by sound, creating...

Included on this year's PSO Holiday Pops program is an arrangement of I Saw Three Ships by West Virginia-based composer and radio host Matthew Jackfert. Matt joined Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning Show to chat.

Matt talks about his arrangement, teaching composition at Marshall University, and writing music for Sesame Street. His arrangement of I Saw Three Ships draws inspiration from other Christmas carols, as well as music like Ottorino Respighi's "The Pines of Rome." Jim also asks about Matt's work with West Virginia Public Radio.

Jim and Matt also listen to some...

Sewickley Methodist Church hosts the Fifth Benefit Concert for Ukraine on Wednesday, December 17th at 6:30pm. QED's Emily Brunner spoke with organizer Cheryl Redmond.

Cheryl talks about this concert's partner, Doctors United for Ukraine, a non-profit organization comprising Yale faculty, staff, and students who specialize in delivering humanitarian aid to foster the health and wellbeing of Ukrainian people in the face of war and its consequences. The program will feature Ukrainian folk songs and holiday music, performed by ten Pittsburgh Symphony musicians and three guest artists. There will also be a reception after the concert, with donated...

Celebrate the holiday season with the Pittsburgh Symphony, the Mendelssohn Choir, and guest vocalist Blaine Alden Krauss in this annual offering of music for the season! Conductor Daniel joined Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning Show to talk about Holiday Pops.

Daniel details all of the special performances in the program, including appearances from The Tamburitzans and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's The Nutcracker. Jim and Daniel also play past holiday pieces from Daniel's career. Additionally, Daniel gave his reaction to the PSO's recent return to Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Holiday Pops opens this...

Ponchielli’s four-act masterwork makes its Pittsburgh concert opera debut in the highlight of Pittsburgh Festival Opera’s season! Artistic director and mezzo-soprano Marianne Cornetti, soprano Csilla Boross, and mezzo-soprano Alice Chung joined Anna Singer live to talk about the show.

Marianne spoke about bringing La Gioconda to Pittsburgh, and their spectacular cast and chorus. Csilla, who plays Gioconda, hints at her character's story and what it's like to sing this role. And Christopher talked about the opera's instrumentation and exciting orchestration.

You can see La Gioconda at 4:00pm on Sunday, December 14th at Carnegie Musi...

Calvary United Methodist Church presents their annual Messiah sing-along concert! Music Director Brian Burns joined Anna Singer live to talk about the performance.

Calvary is celebrating their 13th year with the Messiah, and this year they've invited members of the community, regardless of singing experience, to join the choir. The congregation will be joined by singers Kara Cornell, Kirk Dougherty, Matthew Hunt, and Classical QED's Anna Singer. Brian and Anna discuss the unique atmosphere created by the candlelit evening, upgrades made to the choir and orchestra, and Brian's musical journey.

You can hear Handel's "Messiah"...

Rick Sebak has a new show! Don't miss Lucky to Live in Pittsburgh's fourth episode, subtitled Luscious Local Chocolate Shops. Rick joined Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning Show to talk about the show.

The show will feature Pink House Chocolates in Finleyville, Clark Candies in Tarentum, Dorothy's Candies in White Oak, Anderson's Candies in Baden. Rick also includes previous stories on Betsy Ann Chocolates in Westview and Yetter's Candies in Millvale. Each chocolate shop also features an I Love Lucy connection!

Lucky to Live in Pittsburgh's new episode airs live on Channel 13 on...

East Liberty Presbyterian Church hosts a holiday favorite, Christmas in East Liberty, on Friday, December 12th at 7:30pm! Director of Music and Arts Dr. Edward Alan Moore and percussionist Abby Langhorst joined Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning Show to chat about the concert.

This annual East Liberty tradition will feature holiday favorites, along with performances by The Brass Roots with conductor Daniel Curtis, the ELPC Chancel Choir under the direction of Dr. Edward Alan Moore, guest organist Ethan LaPlaca, saxophonist Mike Tomaro, and QED's own Jim Cunningham as narrator. The concert also will include a...

The Pittsburgh Symphony made a triumphant return to Carnegie Hall in New York City with Shostakovich's Symphony No. 5! Classical QED's Jim Cunningham was in attendance and captured reactions from the audience after the concert.

Hear thoughts from WQXR's Jeff Spurgeon, who broadcast the concert live, PSO President and CEO Melia Tourangeau, maestro Manfred Honeck, composer Lera Auerbach, and more. PSO members Craig Knox and Jim Rodgers also shared their experience of playing at Carnegie Hall.

The concert will be re-broadcast on WQED-FM as part of the Carnegie Hall Tonight series. Stay tuned for broadcast details.<...

The River City Brass presented their 2025 Christmas Brasstacular concert at Bethel Park High School on Tuesday December 9, 2025. WQED-FM broadcast the concert live! During intermission, WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with two new members of the band. First, he interviewed Brooke Boehmer (horn), who spoke about her work around town, attending the New England Conservatory of Music, and how she enjoys the local brewing scene in Pittsburgh. Jim was then joined by First Cornet Alex Perez, who recently graduated from Duquesne University, and was part of the River City Brass Youth Brass. He talks about his love of jazz and what people...

Pittsburgh Opera's Director of Education Marilyn Egan and Education Committee Chair Dr. Eugene Myers took QED's Jim Cunningham on a tour of their building back in October.

Marilyn spoke about their education program, Opera Trunks, which are teaching residencies sent out to educators to introduce their students to opera. They are colorful steamer trunks on wheels filled with books, costumes, music, and lesson activities. Pittsburgh Opera's five versions include a Madama Butterfly Trunk, Opera Improv Trunk, Carmen Trunk, Bravi Tutti Trunk, and a Tot Trunk.

Dr. Myers talked through his opera journey alongside his medical...

On Friday December 5, 2025, WQED-FM broadcast the 2025 Heinz Chapel Choir Holiday concert live from Heinz Chapel. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with organist J.R. Daniels about the music he was playing on the concert. At the end of the concert, Anna spoke with the Choir's Director Dr. Susan Rice about how she put this year's program together, going on tour this Spring and enjoying finding new, young composers to include in her concert. Anna then spoke with two members of the Choir - Choir President Patrick Diamond (senior), and Jackson Aiosa (freshman), to get their thoughts on the concert, their excitement...

Slippery Rock University's Pop Music Ensembles are hosting an end-of-semester concert! SRU Professor Dr. Cassandra Eisenreich, and student members Ethan Aeschbacher and Chrystal Sircely met with Emily Brunner on Zoom to talk about the concert.

Cassandra explains what sets SRU's pop ensembles apart and the importance of academic diversity in music education. Chrystal and Ethan talk about their roles in the ensembles, student leadership, and collaboration. They also give a run-down on SRU's music program, and how their semesters have been.

The pop ensembles' concert on December 8th will have three sets, each featuring a...

Tuesday Musical Club's String Ensemble invite you to their concert on Tuesday, December 9th!

Conductor Edward Leonard joined Melissa Black to talk about the program, which features spectacular pieces by Elgar, Gershwin, Bartok, and more. Eddie also spoke about the ensemble's rehearsal schedule and flexible nature.

The concert will be held at Rodef Shalom's Levy Hall on Tuesday, December 9th at 1:00pm. It is free, and concertgoers are encouraged to join the string ensemble for a holiday reception after the program. Visit Tuesday Musical Club's website for more information.

Thanks for tuning...

The New Hazlett Theater presents Sounds of the Season on Saturday, December 13th at 7:30pm! Featured artist, Dr. Zuly Inirio, spoke with Emily Brunner about the evening.

The concert will feature a variety of holiday tunes that blend jazz, soul, and global rhythms. Zuly mentions her performances, including Baby Please Come Home, Ave Maria, and collaborating with fellow artists for songs like O Holy Night. She also talks about how this concert rose from a collaboration between the New Hazlett's Melissa Cardello-Linton and beloved Pittsburgh artists Hugo Cruz, Dr. Kendra Ross, Brendan Williams, and Zuly herself.

Chatham Baroque are preparing for their holiday concert on December 21st at Carnegie Music Hall! The program features Corelli’s shimmering Christmas Concerto, concerti grossi by Vivaldi, Handel, and Torelli, and a delightful set of French Noëls for strings by Charpentier. Co-Artistic Director and violinist Andrew Fouts spoke with Anna Singer about it.

Andrew talks about the program, which evokes pastoral scenes of the nativity. Chatham Baroque is also welcoming back several friends to join them for the concert, including Paul Miller, Tracy Mortimore, Kristen Linfante, and Justin Wallace. Andrew also touches on his Baroque journey and...

The Pittsburgh Girls Choir is celebrating the holidays this year with their December 13th concert, A Jane Austen Christmas, in honor of the author's 250th birthday. Artistic Director Kathryn Copeland Donaldson and member of the choir Riley Marsisin joined Anna Singer live for a chat.

Kathryn talks about getting her start with the choir this year, their summer tour, and some of the music on their holiday concert's program. Riley reminisces on her 13 years in the choir, becoming a role model, and her post-high school plans.

Don't miss A Jane Austen Christmas on December 13th...

Little Lake Theatre will wrap up their 2025 season with Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge! Artistic Director Patrick Cannon and Director Nathan Walter joined Emily Brunner to talk about the show.

Nathan discusses directing and his first season at Little Lake, and the wild adventure that has been their Christmas show. Patrick introduces Little Lake’s 2026, Home Is Where The Heart Is, which includes ten productions that explore how people build, reshape, and rediscover home.

Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Bing opens December 4th and runs through December 21st. Tickets are limited, so visit...

The Pittsburgh Savoyards are presenting the holiday classic, It’s A Wonderful Life! Director Barbara Burgess-LeFevbre and Production Manager Lynette Garlan spoke with Melissa Black about the show.

Barbara talks about the play’s message and working with two separate casts. She encourages fans of the film to see the play, and says it's the perfect show to introduce young audiences to live theater. Lynette also talks about the Savoyards’ participation in Bellevue’s Light Up Night after their December 6th performance.

Check out the Pittsburgh Savoyards website for performance details and to purchase tickets.

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The Cranberry Men’s Chorus is happy to present their Christmas Concert series for 2025, Christmas Memories! Vice President Kenneday spoke with Emily Brunner about the festivities.

CMC's repertoire includes some classic Christmas favorites like "Winter Wonderland" and "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," and new arrangements of less well-known tunes. Emily and Pete also teased "We Need a Little Christmas," recorded by Pete's quartet, 3 Handsome Lads, in the WQED studios.

All of the concerts in CMC's Christmas Memories series are free to attend. Visit https://www.cranberrymenschorus.com/ for more information.

Per...

No Beethoven and Brahms with these three B's!

It's Bach, Barber, and Britten featured in the Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh's concert at Rodef Shalom Temple on Saturday, November 22nd at 7:30pm. Artistic Director Edward Leonard and featured soloist Amaury Morales joined Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning to talk about it.

They explained the special features of the program and the delights of Bach, Samuel Barber, Benjamin Britten, and Frank Bridge. Amaury detailed his journey from the Dominican Republic in Santiago to Boston and CMU, where he worked with Sergey Schepkin. Both Amaury and...

Artistic Director Kym Scott talks about Pittsburgh Pride Choir’s upcoming holiday concert, A Not So Silent Night. PPC is celebrating its 40th anniversary, and this will be their first major concert since changing their name from Renaissance City Choir earlier this year.

Kym discusses the name change, the choir’s work with Pittsburgh’s LGBTQIA+ community, and fostering a community through music. Their holiday concert will feature a mixture of holiday favorites, new music, and their annual “Twelve Days of Christmas” sing-along.

Pittsburgh Pride Choir’s holiday concert, A Not So Silent Night, is on Saturday...

Pianist, composer, and arranger Tom Roberts talks about his original score for the silent film Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror, written in 2022 for the Pittsburgh Silent Film Society's celebration of the film's 100th anniversary. He provided a backdrop to his eclectic career, telling stories about touring with Leon Redbone, playing in jazz clubs while living in New Orleans, and transcribing music from famous stride pianist Lucky Roberts.

Tom describes the inspiration behind his Nosferatu score and plays excerpts of a few tracks. He used the music to immerse viewers, contrasting the film’s dark visuals with elegant, be...

Chamber Music Pittsburgh presents a rare opportunity to hear all six Bach Brandenburg Concertos in one evening!  

Student's, violist Kai Su and violinist Andrew Gray, visited the WQED-FM studio to play Bach and talk about the event with Jim Cunningham. Kai Su plays the Allemande from the Cello Suite No 1 BWV 1007. Andrew Gray plays the Sonata in C Adagio BWV 1005. Andrew was a winner of the Carnegie Mellon Philharmonic Soloist Competition. He studies with Professor William van der Sloot and studies mathematic sciences. He won the Harry Archer Award at CMU in 2023.

Kai Su grew u...

Resonance Works Artistic Director Maria Sensi Sellner and bass Sergio Martinez joined Anna Singer live in the studio to talk about Resonance Works' upcoming regional premier of Kamala Sankaram and Kelley Rourke's The Jungle Book, based on the classic Rudyard Kipling story. Sergio, who plays Baloo, sings a sneak peek of the opera.

Sergio also tells his opera story, performing this opera in Washington, D.C., and the joy of sharing opera with young performers. Maria talks about Resonance Works' ongoing collaboration with the Pittsburgh Youth Chorus, the importance of multi-generational opera, and sitarist Michael Griska's participation...

The first show in New Hazlett Theater's Community Supported Artist series is Christine CMC Bethea's Birthday at Tiffany's!

Set in 1980s Homewood, the play follows a middle-class couple who will do anything to keep their 7-year-old’s birthday on track—even if it means playing nice with the impossible. QED's Emily Brunner spoke with Christine CMC Bethea, Mils James, and Tanika Harris about the play. Christine explained the inspiration behind the play, while Tanika discussed her character, Elaine. Mils talked about choreographing the play, and the three related the importance of community--both in the story and in the...

The Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra begins it's 2025-2026 concert season with "PYSO Plays Opera" - Sunday, November 16th, 7:30pm at Heinz Hall. Jacob Joyce conducts the orchestra in music of Verdi, Wagner, Puccini and Ethyl Smith. Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artist Lauryn Davis joins the PYSO to sing "Matern aller Arten" by Mozart. Jacob Joyce joined Jim Cunningham on the QED Morning Show to talk about the concert. The concert is free, but they recommend you ordering a ticket in advance at https://pyso.org/tickets/ Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts...

Pittsburgh Opera presents Gregory Spears' "Fellow Travelers" for 3 performances only - Friday November 14th (7pm), Saturday November 15th (7pm), and Sunday November 16th (2pm) at the Byham Theater. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Logan Wagner, who sings the role of "Timothy Laughlin." He sang the role in a student production in Cincinnati with Erik Nordstrom. He talks about the music and the dynamic between his character and the character of "Hawkins." He did not grow up listening to opera, rather he sang Journey songs since his dad is in a rock cover band, "Fast Forward", who was recently inducted into...

Pittsburgh Opera presents Gregory Spears' "Fellow Travelers" for 3 performances only - Friday November 14th (7pm), Saturday November 15th (7pm), and Sunday November 16th (2pm) at the Byham Theater. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Erik Nordstrom, who sings the role of "Hawkins Fuller." He sang the role in a student production in Cincinnati and is excited to revisit the role. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here to bring you closer to the he...

Pittsburgh Opera presents Gregory Spears' "Fellow Travelers" for 3 performances only - Friday November 14th (7pm), Saturday November 15th (7pm), and Sunday November 16th (2pm) at the Byham Theater. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Stage Director Brian Staufenbiel, who talks about his vision for the opera, and how it's extremely helpful to have two cast members who have already done a production of the opera. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here to br...

Pittsburgh Opera presents Gregory Spears' "Fellow Travelers" for 3 performances only - Friday November 14th (7pm), Saturday November 15th (7pm), and Sunday November 16th (2pm) at the Byham Theater. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Pittsburgh Opera Music Director Antony Walker, who talks about the music, the historical context of the opera, and how he thinks its important as a conductor to sit in on every voice rehearsal. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re he...

Tuesday Musical Club is hosting it's Composer Workshop Concert next Tuesday!

Composer Joshua Malave talks about his work with the Tuesday Musical Club Composers workshop, and his piece he will play for the concert. Title "Piano Sonata in F Major", Josh talks about the circumstances that led to him writing this piece for a different concert. He plays the 3rd movement in this episode in our studios.

Josh also talks about the other composers in the concert, including Judy Bruce, George Pearsall, Janet Stivanson, and many others. Josh reminisces about his past, and how he...

Flutist Lindsey Goodman has a new album "Transporting Bright" coming out today!

WQED's Anna Singer talks with Lindsey about her new album, which features 11 commissioned works by living American composers. The composers include Pittsburgher's such as Nancy Galbraith, and Rob Frankenberry. There are also multiple groups in the album, including flute quartet Pandemonium 4, and the Chrysalis Duo. Lindsey talks about the album's title, which comes from Galbraith's piece "A Something in a Summer's Day". The piece, inspired by an Emily Dickinson poem, is ties into reconnecting with people after the pandemic.

Lindsey recently premiered Roger...

See houses decorated for the Holidays during the 2025 Symphony Splendor Holiday House Tour. There are two tour times on November 22nd - from 11am to 4pm and 5pm to 8pm. The house tour is in the exclusive Lake Macleod neighborhood in Gibsonia. Pittsburgh Symphony Association President-Elect Ruth Ann Pritchard, and PSO Violinist Irene Cheng spoke with WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham about this year's tour - what people can expect to see in the houses. It's worth the trip up to the North Hills for this fundraising event for the PSO. Irene is getting many of her colleagues to play music at...

The Frick Pittsburgh has a new art exhibit, perfect for the holiday season!

Chief Curator and Director of Collections, Dawn Brean, and Director of Learning and Visitor Experience, Kelsie Paul, talks about the exhibit "The Scandinavian Home: Landscape and Lore". This show is part of a large private collection of Scandinavian art from David and Susan Werner. This exhibit features over 100 different artifacts from the Nordic countries. Dawn talks about the different kinds of art people can see in the exhibit, and what is unique about the art in the show.  

Kelsie highlights the large a...

It's an opera that Pittsburgh Opera General Director Christopher Hahn has wanted to put on stage for many years. "Fellow Travelers" is set in 1950's Washington DC during the Eisenhower administration while Joe McCarthy was sifting through the government in the red scare to sort out communists. Fellow Travelers turns up in Thomas Mallon's novel and several screen adaptations. Now the story is set to the music written by Gregory Spears which has won rave reviews in New York and Chicago with multiple additional performances also winning praise. The story weaves together political intrigue with personal drama, a bit of...

Chatham Baroque is back at it again, this time with just the trio!

Members Andrew Fouts (violin), Patricia Halverson (viola da gamba), and Scott Pauley (theorbo & baroque guitar), talk about their upcoming concert "A Trio Virtuosic". The program highlights include Bach's Sonata in G Major, Schmelzer's Sonata Quarta in D Major, and Biber's Sonata in F Major. The trio emphasizes the returning to familiar pieces, but with new interpretation in phrasing.

Scott talks about his new role, now as Managing and Artistic Director of the group. They also talk about their record breaking subscriptions this...

Just in time for spooky season, horror and science fiction writer Lawrence C. Connolly talks about his latest writings!

Lawrence talks about two of his most recent projects, a play for Prime Stage Theatre reimaging 4 Edgar Alan Poe stories, and his newest book, "Minute Men: Execute & Run". Lawrence talks about his adaptation of the four stories for the play, and how his brother's idea sparked a book.  

The play blends four of Edgar Alan Poe's stories with Poe appearing as a character, in a style similar to his real-life stage performances. Lawrence highlights Po...

It's not exactly Ian Underwood, the flutist of Jethro Tull, who stood on one leg playing Bach. But Stephen Schultz plays the electric baroque flute in Forest Cathedral, a world premiere from Nancy Galbraith at Carnegie Mellon.

Nancy and Stephen talk about the energetic piece in Nancy's audience friendly style and also share happenings at CMU Music this fall. Stephen just wrapped up teaching a course on Mahler and another on the Beatles while writing his eighth score for Nancy. Nancy has fifteen students this year. She says they are writing interesting music for video games and...

Frank Zappa's "Ruth is Sleeping" leads off Canadian born pianist Mark Andre Hamelin's new Hyperion cd "Found Objects/Sound Objects" with Salvatore Martirano heard in "Stuck on Stella," "The Perilous Night" by John Cage, Stefan Wolpe with "Passacaglia," "Refrain" by his friend Yehudi Wyner and "Hexensabbat" written by the pianist. On January 12, 2026, Mark-Andre Hamelin will have his Pittsburgh recital debut for Chamber Music Pittsburgh playing Concord Sonata by Charles Ives, Forest Scenes by Robert Schumann and Gaspard de la Nuit by Ravel. He tells Jim Cunningham he listens to radio WCRB all day being married to pianist and announcer Cathy...

German born pianist Burkard Schliessmann has concertized around the world with a base in Frankfurt. He teaches at Curtis and in New York. He spoke with Jim Cunningham by Zoom from Germany about the solo piano works of Robert Schumann, Fantasies for the Divine Art label. The deluxe pressing is being issued as a triple gold audiophile LP. Burkard discussed his interpretation of Schumann's Kreisleriana and other masterpieces written in some cases near the end of his life when he was said to be losing his sanity. Herr Schliessmann feels this has been exaggerated. He also discusses Johann Wolfgang von...

Stage 62 presents Oklahoma at the Carnegie Music Hall in Carnegie, PA for two weekends - November 6-9 and November 13-15 with a cast of 40 directed by Rob James . Brian Ferris, Curly, who sings “Oh What a Beautiful Morning” and Rachel Fox, Aunt Eller, who serves as the emotional overseer for the cast bring to life the Rodgers and Hammerstein ground breaking Broadway hit that tells the story of America as the Oklahoma territory is becoming a state. Rachel and Brian joined Jim Cunningham on the QED Morning Show to reveal the special qualities of the production complete with a dining deal...

With a strong presence on Facebook, Frank Kurtik is a different kind of poster. No cats or dogs - instead posts of Pittsburgh historical highlights, concert news, and restaurant discoveries. Frank was a long time docent at Heinz Chapel making brides comfortable on their wedding day and arranging organ recitals and tours after working as Pitt archivist. He started his higher level of educational discovery at Duquesne University and has crossed paths with many WQED regulars including Herb Stein of Newsroom. Mr. and Mrs. Kurtik brave the travel miles from Uniontown for countless musical events in Western Pa.   Kurtik recently p...

The Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh’s second annual CrosSING Bridges Choral Festival takes place on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at 4pm in the newly renovated Carnegie Music Hall in Oakland. Mendelssohn will share the stage once again with Heritage Gospel Chorale Pittsburgh (Dr. Herbert V.R.P. Jones, director) and Coro Latinoamericano Pittsburgh (Lourdes Santiesteban, director), along with their new choral partner, the Pittsburgh Pride Choir (Dr. Kym Scott, director). You’ll hear music from varied music traditions representing communities across Pittsburgh, and you’ll witness over 200 voices coming together to show all that collaboration can accomplish. Jim Cunningham spoke with Mendelssohn Choir...

Pittsburgh Vintage Mixer founder Michael Lutz joined Jim Cunningham on the QED Morning show to invite listeners to the David Lawrence Convention Center Saturday November 8, 2025 from 9am to 5pm where they will find collectible curated treasures of all kinds including vinyl records and decorative items, books, furniture, and housewares all in a fun atmosphere . Kids under 13 are admitted free with all tickets available at the door. There’s also a VIP Night Owl Pre party for $35, with free re entry to the main event on Saturday. Michael has been featured in an episode of Rick Sebak’s Nebby series on WQED...

Problem pregnancies have not been top of mind for composers but Carnegie Mellon University faculty member Katherine Pukinskis has organized the Pittsburgh debut of her "One in Four, One in Eight" and brings the Agarita Ensemble and Attack Theater Dance to three locations - McGee Medical Center, the Attack Theater headquarters, and Westminster Presbyterian Church. The tickets are free but reservations are desirable at music.cmu.edu/events Agarita arrives from Texas with violinist Sarah Silver Manzke who has a great musical tradition. Her father, Paul Silver, has been a violist in the Pittsburgh Symphony for many years and retired...

It's a celebration of ten years with Maestro James Blachly and the Johnstown Symphony. Opening night - October 25, 2025 - brings the start of the America 250 Celebration with Samuel Barber, Charles Ives' Unanswered Question, something new from Levi Taylor, and Brahms' Third Symphony. Maestro Blachly looks over the success of his Bach and Charlie Parker concert and the plan for a special holiday event. He tells Jim Cunningham about his visit to the Grammy Awards ceremony for his recording of Julia Perry, about his New York music making and suggests that he sees a bright future for classical music in Johnstown...

The clear singing rooster in Geoffrey Chaucer's Canterbury Tales gave the 12 men of Chanticleer their name 48 years ago. Now the group is one of the world's most loved with a stop at the David Johnson Chapel on the Thiel College campus as part of the Con Spirito Concert Series on October 30th at 7pm. Assistant Music Director Matthew Mazzola runs down the American theme for the program and explains the special quality of the sound with an overview of the history bringing together more than 70 new pieces of music, Renaissance music, jazz, gospel, pop tunes, Latin music and women composers...

The Westmoreland Symphony Orchestra opens its 2025-2026 season this Saturday, October 18th, with Korngold’s Violin Concerto, featuring violinist Timothy Chooi. Timothy and WSO Executive Director Michael Rozell joined WQED's Jim Cunningham live on the air to discuss the concert, Timothy's career, and the symphony. Timothy is Professor of Violin at the University of Ottawa. He holds degrees from the Curtis Institute of Music and the Juilliard School, and a Professional Studies Diploma from the Kronberg Academy. He previously collaborated with Westmoreland Symphony Artistic Director Daniel Meyer at Lakeside Chautauqua in Ohio, playing Bruch's "Scottish Fantasy" with the Lakeside Symphony Or...

The Steinway Society of Western Pennsylvania presents the Pittsburgh debut of Aljosha Jurinic on Sunday October 19th, 3pm in the Kresge Theater at Carnegie Mellon University. It's an all Chopin recital with the Second and Third Sonatas plus nocturnes. Aljosha spoke with Jim Cunningham by Zoom from his home in Boston. He is involved in research regarding biomechanics with the hope of helping musicians avoid injuries. He explains his own physical fitness regimen and says he is careful about riding a bicycle. His formidable technique has taken him to the top at several competitions including the Chopin Competition in Warsaw...

The Tuesday Musical Club presents "Italia con Amore!" on October 21st, 1pm at Levy Hall, Rodef Shalom. This free concert includes music by Donizetti, Scarlatti, Boccherini and more. Soprano Sarah Richards and pianist Nanette Kaplan Solomon stopped by the studio to perform “Quando m’en vo” from Puccini's La Boheme LIVE. After the performance, they joined concert organizer Catherine Crotty in a conversation with WQED-FM's Anna Singer. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here ...

Pittsburgh Opera opens it's 2025-2026 season with Puccini's "La Boheme" at the Benedum Center October 18th through 26th. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Vuvu Mpofu, who sings the role of Mimi. It's her role debut and she talks about her characters bravery throughout the opera. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here to bring you closer to the heart of Pittsburgh's local arts scene. Don’t miss our musician interviews, the latest loca...

Pittsburgh Opera opens it's 2025-2026 season with Puccini's "La Boheme" at the Benedum Center October 18th through 26th. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with stage director Kristine McIntyre. She talks about her approach to such a classic opera, especially with a cast of such young voices. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here to bring you closer to the heart of Pittsburgh's local arts scene. Don’t miss our musician interviews, the latest loca...

Pittsburgh Opera opens it's 2025-2026 season with Puccini's "La Boheme" at the Benedum Center October 18th through 26th. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Daniel O'Hearn, who sings the role of Rodolfo. Daniel is thrilled to be back in Pittsburgh after spending many years in the Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artist program. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here to bring you closer to the heart of Pittsburgh's local arts scene. Don’t miss our...

Pittsburgh Opera opens it's 2025-2026 season with Puccini's "La Boheme" at the Benedum Center October 18th through 26th. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Pittsburgh Opera Music Director Antony Walker about the music of this great opera. He's conducted the opera countless times, but still always enjoys it. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here to bring you closer to the heart of Pittsburgh's local arts scene. Don’t miss our musician interviews, the...

Chamber Music Pittsburgh presents the Sphinx Virtuosi and Sterling Elliot at Carnegie Music Hall on Tuesday October 21st at 7:30pm. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with two members of Sphinx Virtuosi - Violist/violinist Bill Neri and violinist Sandro Leal-Santiesteban. They spoke about the ensemble, what people can expect at the concert and much more. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local music, we’re here to bring you closer to the heart of Pittsburgh's local arts sc...

After thirteen years of planning, Fred Rogers and George Benson are now in stone in front of the Terminal Smallman Street at 18th in the Strip District on the Pittsburgh Walk of Fame with eight other luminaries following the ceremonies on Monday October 20th. Executive Director of the Walk, Nancy Polinsky Johnson, a regular on QED Cooks with Chris Fennimore and retired publisher of Shady Ave. Magazine, speaks with Jim Cunningham about the walk and how you can add new names in the years to come. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for...

There is big news coming from The Frick Pittsburgh!

Chief Curator and Director of Collections, Dawn Brean, gave WQED a sneak-peek at the Clayton House's 3rd and 4th floors! These largely never before seen floors will be open to the public for the first time ever for exclusive tours in November. Dawn talks about why they are opening it up now, and what people will be able to see.

Unlike the 1st and 2nd floors, the top two floors are unrestored, untouched spaces. They remain largely as they were when Helen Cl...

On Saturday October 18th, Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra presents an evening of multicultural music featuring the World Premieres from local composers, and well known global composers who have taken elements from traditional musical styles to create new classics. For this performance the orchestra welcomes International Mexican guitarist David Huchin of Brussels, Belgium and PCO music director Alejandro Pinzón playing the bandoneon. Both stopped by WQED-FM to chat with Anna Singer about the concert. Tickets and additional information can be found at https://www.pghcivicorch.org. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts a...

Thomas Douglas, Artistic Director of Bach Choir of Pittsburgh, joined Anna Singer of Afternoon Classics, to talk about Bach Choir's 2025-2026 season titled "Cirque du Cinéma." The season kicks off November 15th and 16th at the RowHouse Hollywood Theater, where they will perform Richard Einhorn’s majestic Voices of Light in accompaniment to Carl Theodor Dreyer’s 1928 silent film “The Passion of Joan of Arc.” Thomas also talks about CMU Opera's recent production of Sondheim's "Putting it Together" which took place earlier in October. Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and cultu...

WQED-FM's Anna Singer was joined by Scott Pauley of Chatham Baroque live on the air. Scott talked about the Chatham Baroque/Renaissance and Baroque season opening concert this Sunday October 19th at Shadyside Presbyterian Church titled "Beethoven’s Opus 1: Three Groundbreaking Trios." Step into 1795 Vienna and experience the debut of Beethoven’s groundbreaking Opus 1 piano trios—his first published works. With these trios, Alan Choo (violin), Jaap ter Linden (cello), and David Breitman (fortepiano) celebrate the bold arrival of a brilliant young composer on the rise. Scott also talks about Chatham Baroque's Tales & Tunes of the BOO-roque concert Saturday October 25th 7:3...

20 Years with Maestro Walter Morales and 38 years together as the Edgewood Symphony begins the season with a festive concert at Carnegie Music Hall Sunday October 19th at 3pm. Conductor Morales joins composers Robert Schulz and Danny English to talk abut their new music to be heard for the first time at the event. Maestra Maria Sensi Sellner conducts Gabriela Ortiz's "Kauyumari" and the Ravel Concerto for the Left Hand which features Walter Morales at the keyboard, plus the Colorscope Suite for Piano Left Hand by Robert Schultz and Danny English’s "Colluctatio" - a Miniature Piano Concerto. The Concerto tells the...

Pittsburgh International Classic Theatre is showing Sedef Ecer's play "First Lady." WQED-FM's Melissa Black interviewed the playwright Sedef Ecer, the translator for the play Amelia Parenteau, and PICT's Artistic Director Elizabeth Elias Huffman, who is also acting the lead role in the play. A satirical romp, First Lady Ishtar is oblivious to the ensuing uprising around her, as she becomes the unwitting catalyst for an explosive reaction. Directed by Adil Mansoor, First Lady's timely production speaks to the delusive nature of power, corruption, and cronyism in a scathing, hilarious critique of this seminal moment in global politics. Go to picttheatre...

Chamber Orchestra of Pittsburgh begins their 2025-2026 Season with a concert on Saturday October 11th, 7:30pm at Rodef Shalom titled "Future and Fate." Joining Jim Cunningham on the QED Morning Show were Artistic Director Edward Leonard, Violist Jennifer Gerhard Mangone and bass Jeff Mangone to talk about the concert. Jennifer and Jeff will perform the Sinfonia Concertante for Viola and Bass by Dittersdorf. The concert will also feature Mozart's Symphony No. 40 and Matt Brown's "I have Seen the Future." Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether...

Pittsburgh Festival Opera presents "Legends in the Limelight" - Sunday October 12th, 3pm at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater. The concert will feature Meghan Picerno, who will be accompanied by pianist James Lesniak. Meghan was joined by Pittsburgh Festival Opera Artistic Director to chat with WQED-FM's Anna Singer about the concert, Meghan's musical background and more. For tickets and information about the event, visit https://pittsburghfestivalopera.org/upcoming/2025-season/legend-meghan-picerno/ Thanks for tuning in to WQED's Voice of the Arts, Pittsburgh's trusted source for arts and culture in our region. Whether you're passionate about classical music, film, theater, opera, or local...

A Pittsburgh first for Daniel Pinkham - his Concerto for Wind Quintet and Organ, plus Windfluence playing favorites at East Liberty Presbyterian Church on Sunday October 12th at 3pm in a free concert for the Cathedral Concerts series. Organist and Music Director at the Church, Dr. Edward Alan Moore and clarinet Kira Bokalders run down the plan with Jim Cunningham live on the QED Morning Show - plus suggestions on a great spot to get a bite to eat in East Liberty, the architectural wonders of the Ralph Adams Cram designed church, where to park, and how they are trying...

Chatham Baroque's first concert of the new season features Beethoven's Opus 1 piano trios!

Pianist and professor at Oberlin College, David Breitman, talks on the phone with Jim Cunningham about the piano trios on the fortepiano. Alan Choo, violin, and Jaap ter Linden, cello, will join David for the concert on October 19th.  

David talks about the three trios, which were written in 1795 when Beethoven was 25. David highlights the rare chance to hear the complete piece on period instruments. He also talks about Beethoven self-funding the publication through an early version of cro...

Attack Theatre is celebrating it's 30th Season this year, and they have an exciting lineup to kick it all off!

Executive Director, Andres Franco, talks about his first 6 months on the job, and the all the exciting events coming up at Attack Theatre. Their first performance of the season, "Some Assembly Required: At Home" was first commissioned by the Carnegie Museum of Art in 1996, is a signature Attack Theatre experience. The show involves live music, dance, visual art, audience participation, and improvisation.  

Andres talks about the music by Cello Fury member, Sim...

Want to hear local chamber music this fall? Academy Concerts has you covered!

Artistic Director and violist, Warren Davidson, talks about the upcoming season for the Academy Concerts and the Academy String Quartet. Spread across four church's across the Pittsburgh area, Warren's goal is to bring great classical chamber music to the Pittsburgh area. Warren talks about a series of concerts with the Academy String Quartet, which he is a part of.  

"Academy String Quartet: “Friends of Ukraine”" concerts salutes nations that have been steadfast in their support for Ukraine in its str...

A new season of Academy Concerts is about to be underway!

Violist in Academy String Quartet, and Artistic Director of the Academy Concerts, Warren Davidson, talks about their first upcoming concert on Sunday, September 28th. Warren discusses the concert, called 'The Sounds of Elegance' which features harpist Marissa Knaub Avon. She, Tom Godfrey (flute), and Warren (viola) will perform some colorful and romantic music, mostly from French composers. They will play some Ravel, Debussy, DeFalla, Faure, and others. They return to Old St. Luke's for this concert, after a brief hiatus due to the pandemic. Duration: 00:10:46

The Pittsburgh Savoyards are continuing their 88th season with a 'forgotten' Gilbert and Sullivan's show Utopia, Limited.

Stage Director Robert Hockenberry, and Production Manager Lynette Garlan, talk about the upcoming show. Utopia, Limited is Gilbert and Sullivan's 13th operetta, their second to last one. It is about a small island that decides to copy Victorian England to ensure the greatness of their civilization. Comedy, political satire, and hijinks ensue! Though it wasn't considered a success at the time, its become a modern gem.

Rob talks about his role putting stage directions to...

In this live interview, Anna Singer talks with members of Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Park's Macbeth, which runs outdoors over six weekends until October 12th.

Music Director Matt Calvetti talks about the unique live sound design that is prevalent throughout the show. He uses unconventional instruments, demonstrated live, to create tension and atmosphere in this chilling play. Actor Aaron Crutchfield plays Macbeth, and reflects on the emotional depth of the role. He finds his famous monologues are made even more poignant by the outdoors.  

Founder and Artistic Director, Jennifer Tober, shares her...

Celebrating it's 29th season, Prime Stage Theatre presents an exciting lineup of upcoming productions and community events! Producing Artistic Director Wayne Brinda, and PR Director, Lawrence McCullough, talk about these events.  

On September 27th, it's the annual Homewood Cemetery Walk! Larry highlights the seven historical figures that will be portrayed by professional actors. The figures include Michael Benedum, Irene Peacock, Henry Bigelow, Robert Pitcairn, among others. Seven Pittsburgh based actors each portray one figure, and bring their stories to life right at their graves.

Wayne also discusses, 'An Evening of Poe Pou...

"Reson8: Hero Songs" features the live premiere of Peter Hilliard and Matt Boresi’s song cycle of the same name. Originally composed for the Decameron Opera Coalition’s HEROES opera-film anthology project, “Hero Songs” is a meditation on heroism and service, contemplating the past, present, and future of fortitude, effort, and sacrifice. Interwoven with this thought-provoking cycle are works by Joel Thompson, Rosephanye Powell, Damian Geter, Reena Esmail, Melissa Dunphy, and more. WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Maria Sensi Sellner about the concert, which takes place September 19th at Northmont United Presbyterian Church; September 20th at First Baptist Church and Septembe...

Artistic Director of Resonance Works, Maria Sensi Sellner, discusses live with Anna Singer about the Reson8 Vocal Octet's upcoming season launch.

The season launches with "Hero Songs", a concert featuring a five-song cycle by Peter Hilliard and Matt Boresi. The cycle explores the themes of heroism through different time periods and perspectives. The concert also features a piece by Reena Esmail, with local sitar player Michael Griska accompanying.  

Maria talks about the concert's songs, and performers in the group, and the "Be a Hero" Initiative. The new volunteer advocacy program features 11 loc...

When did Pittsburgh Symphony Music Director Lorin Maazel dine alone? What did he think of the cheese heads in Wisconsin?  

The Principal Horn of the Pittsburgh Symphony, William Caballero, and Principal Oboe Cynthia Koledo de Almeida talk about it all. Cynthia and Bill talk when they joined the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra under Maestro Maazel. They also talk live on the QED Morning show about the season opening gala for the Pittsburgh. They also reveal the details of their September 21st benefit concert for the community of McKees Rocks.  

The Sunday afternoon mini...

It's a Ravel 125th birthday party with one hand behind his back. Walter Morales plays the Chatham University "Friday Afternoon Musicale: Romantic Piano Music for the Left Hand Alone." It's a free concert Friday September 19, 2025 at 4pm in the James Laughlin Music Center. Robert Frankenberry will play the orchestral reduction on a second piano for the concerto. Walter includes composers who wrote for the left hand from Ravel's world including Blumenfeld, Alkan, Saint-Saens, Mosakowski and Godowsky.  The Maestro also details the Edgewood Symphony's October 19th event at Carnegie Music Hall where Walter will play the Ravel concerto with Maria Sensi S...

Musical Director Ron Brooks, Music Vice President Pete Kennaday, and the voice of the chorus Ken Israel, talk about the Cranberry Men's Chorus' upcoming October concert. "The Golden Oldies: Memories of the 50s and 60s" will be a 90-minute show featuring 27 songs. Ron highlights his desire to connect the audience emotionally to the songs. The styles include doo-wop, love ballads, pop, and rock.  

The concert mimics a Casey-Kasem style radio show, with Ken the voice of the chorus. Ken talks about his work in radio advertising, and his brief stint as an on-air host. In be...

There is a new play festival in Pittsburgh this year!

Directors Jeremy Seghers and Olivia Hartle, and actor Johnny Patalano, talk about their work in the new Bridges and Stages Festival. The Becoming Arts Collective in partnership with Broken Arts Entertainment, bring these new 10-minute plays to life at the Carnegie Stage. The festival focuses on emerging playwrights from across the country, including Pittsburgh.

Olivia talks about the two shows she is directing. Both are very different plays, with one examining a family dynamic, and the other, a theoretical conversation between Sigmund Fried a...

Get ready to hear beautiful music! In this episode, soprano Chantal Braziel talks about her upcoming recital concert with Tuesday Musical Club in October.

She discusses the program, which features spiritual's and classical solos. The program features several works by African American composers, and includes a piece inspired by the poetry of Langston Hughes. Chantal performs a piece from the program live in our studios with pianist Janet Stivanson. The piece is called "Love, Let the Wind Cry...How I Adore Thee".  

Chantal also talks about her musical beginnings. As a chi...

Join WQED, Fred Rogers Productions, and PNC Grow Up Great for another Be My Neighbor Day, this time in Etna!

Executive Director at the Etna's Community Organization, Megan Tuñón, talks about all the wonderful partnerships, free activities, and more at the event. Etna is the first Northern Learning Neighborhood to host a Be My Neighbor Day, and it will be big! With over 30 organizations participating, Megan knows that there is something for everyone. Megan highlights the live performances happening, including a magician, a local songwriter, and a funky marching band. There will also be the...

Another season of Chamber Music Pittsburgh is coming soon!

Executive Director of Chamber Music Pittsburgh, Martha Bonta, guides us through the upcoming 65th anniversary season, which starts at Carnegie Music Hall on September 16 with Brooklyn Rider presenting Citizenship Notes. October 21st brings Sphinx Virtuosi and cellist Sterling Elliott. November sees the complete Brandenburg Concertos with Pittsburgh Symphony members and CMU faculty.  

To start off the new year, pianist Marc Andre Hamelin performs his Pittsburgh recital debut! Closing out the season, Ruckus with Davone Tines on February 10th and the Juilliard Quartet on...

The Pittsburgh Symphony Musicians are hosting several fundraisers this month! Assistant Concertmaster Dylan Naroff, Principal Bass Clarinet Jack Howell, and Mr. Cut Time himself, Rick Robinson, discuss the many different functions coming up.

The first event is a free concert, Running For Rhythm, which features an hour of interactive music. A pre-cursor to the annual Musicians of Steel 5K, this concert showcases everything from jazz to classical music. Rick talks about the arrangements he wrote for this concert, and the 8 musicians involved.

Jack talks about his role in the concert. Dylan ta...

Another season of music starts in Pittsburgh, and today we talk to saxophonist Jeff Siegfried and pianist Ellen Fast. They will open the season for Music in a Great Space at Shadyside Presbyterian Church this September.  

The repertoire includes works by beloved classics and contemporary innovators alike. Composers such as Steven Banks, Amy Beach, Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, Jeff Siegfried, William Grant Still, and Gwyneth Walker, are all represented. Ellen talks about singing in the Shadyside Choir. She has also performed as a soloist and accompanist with the Pittsburgh Camerata. She also discusses her founding of...

WQED’s award-winning documentarian, Rick Sebak, introduces his latest program "Lucky to Live in Pittsburgh Episode 3" which airs Thursday, September 4th at 8 pm on WQED TV.

Rick visits Weirton, West Virginia for the Serbian Chicken Blast on summer Wednesdays. He also stops at Community Kitchen Pittsburgh in Hazelwood for their famous fish fry for Lent. He completes the program  with a visit to Bottlerocket Social Hall in the neighborhood of Allentown.  

Rick discusses it all as a sneak peak before it airs tonight!

You can see Lucky to Live...

Have you ever wondered what the local concert scene is in Saxonburg, PA? We do too!

Director of Music Ministry at Saxonburg Memorial Presbyterian Church, Dan Byerly, talks about the second season of Saxonburg concerts. The first event takes place September 7th at 4 pm with the Gibbons Big Band at the close of the Artisans Market.  

The next concert on September 25th at 7 pm features The Beo Quartet, followed by a bluegrass concert on November 1st. The regular Christmas Cantata will be December 13th and 14th. Dan closes out the season wit...

With the cooler weather rolling in, it is the perfect time to see Shakespeare outside, under the stars. Even better when it's at a local Pittsburgh theater.

Husband and wife co-directors, Jeff Boles and Julie Ann, talk about their production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at South Park Theatre. Ann discusses the multi-faceted plot, which includes love triangles, running away to the forest, and many mischievous fairies. The duo also talks about working together on their first production as co-directors, and how their different skill sets help bring it all together. They showcase how this a...

In this wide ranging interview, Pianist Christopher O'Riley talks about his newest CD "The Well Tempered Clavier Book 2" and his personal ties to Pittsburgh.  

Chris explains his approach to selecting the best tempo in Book 2. He also compares both books with special attention to individual preludes and fugues. He finds Book 2 to more challenging than those in Book One. Chris explains why he likes the Boesendorfer compared to the Steinway, and reflects on what Bach experienced in his life.  

Later in the interview, Chis talks about his friendship with Andy Warhol and his work with mu...

It's time to step into a world of art, this time in Washington County!

Former Bethel Park Librarian and award winning teacher Denice Pazuchanics from WQED Education about Washington Park's Arts in the Park. With over 25 art activities, there will be lots to do! The Washington Symphony, The Andy Warhol Museum, The Frick Pittsburgh, will all be there with activities. Denice also highlights dance and music performances. The first 200 kids will receive free snacks too!  

Denice discusses how to instill in your youngest family members a love for the arts, why that matters and as a...

Since its foundation in 1998, the School of Rock franchise has taught performance based music education. There are two schools in the Greater Pittsburgh area that have been around for nearly twelve years. One is in Wexford, and the other in Castle Shannon.

Giovanni Mori, former School of Rock student and one of WQED’s summer interns, sits with the co-owners of the Pittsburgh schools, Quinn Lukas and Dan Moore. They discuss what School of Rock is, what students can learn, and what their experience has been like before acquiring ownership.

The schools have many exciting th...

Artistic Director of the Pittsburgh Festival Opera, Marianne Cornetti, talks about their upcoming event, "An Evening Under the Stars with Our Stars".

The concert presents seven singers individually and as ensembles with pianist, Maeve Berry, for an evening of the most beloved operatic arias and Broadway tunes. Marianne will sing an aria from "Il Trovatore" by Verdi and "Memory" from Cats.  Benjamin Werley sings "Maria" from "West Side Story" and "Vesti la giubba" from "I Pagliacci" by Leoncavallo.  

Sadie Cheslak sings Wagner’s "Weiche, Wotan!" From "Das Rheingold" and Sondheim’s "Losing My Mind" from "Follie...

Rosemary Pawlowski is a powerhouse for the arts in Johnstown. She started the Bottleworks Ethnic Arts Center and is now involved with "Gallery on Gazebo" which offers visitors, tourists, local residents and downtown workers a friendly and convenient gathering space, combined ever-changing exhibits of art and a wide variety of special events. In this wide-ranging interview, Jim Cunningham spoke with Rosemary about her advocacy of the arts in Johnstown, starting the Bottleworks Ethnic Arts Center, visiting Mahler's writing huts in Austria, and remembering her husband, Edwin, who recently passed away. Edwin was a renowned architect and a fan of classical...

Music Director and Conductor of the Washington Symphony Orchestra, Yugo Ikach, discusses their new season.

Their upcoming season includes a celebration of the United States 250th Anniversary, a John Williams concert, and a holiday concert with an island twist. He highlights their listener friendly approach to programming music.

Yugo also talks about Washington County's Arts in the Park celebration. Arts in the park celebrates the county wide array of arts groups with over 25 artist activities, and a brass quintet from the Washington Symphony.

Yugo Ikach loves his work as Associate Dean of the C...

Kweilin Nassar, Vice President of the South Side Community Council, and Susan Anderson, East Carson Street Business District Manager, joined Jim Cunningham to invite you to the Fifth Annual South Side Community Yard Sale and Shop, Sip and Stroll taking place Saturday August 23rd from 11am till 5pm on East Carson and throughout the South Side.

The event features over 65 South Side locations and more than 45 East Carson Street businesses with live entertainment, treasure hunting, architecture, good food, great coffee and refreshments - plus, two chances to win $250 by looking for QR codes at participating locations.

The First Lutheran Church in Johnstown hosts the Tuesday Noon Recital Series. These free concerts are held each Tuesday in the months of October, April and July. Each recital lasts about 25 minutes followed by a free lunch in the church's Social Hall. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with the series founder Kim Rauch. He spoke about the origins of the series, the joy he gets from playing the organ at the First Lutheran Church, his starting the Johnstown Youth Choir, the many things you can do in Johnstown. For information on the series, visit: https://www.firstlutheran.in/recital-series Thanks for...