Good to Know

We have a variety of classical specials for the holiday season, from Christmas to New Year’s Day. Listen to them any time that's convenient using this comprehensive listing.

Here is a day-by-day guide to all of our special holiday programming for the 2026 season, from Thanksgiving into the New Year.

Opera Orchestra musicians have been at odds with the Opera over cost-of-living increases.

After more than 50 years of broadcasting, Ratner is retiring from regular on-air hosting duties on Classical 24, MPR’s national service, on Saturday, Oct. 31.

The vote to authorize a strike came after the musicians’ union said the Minnesota Opera declined cost-of-living increases during contract negotiations.

The deep-voiced Scottish mezzo-soprano just made her Royal Opera House debut. Now, with her debut solo album, The Deeps Have Music, she is on the doorstep of stardom.

Birge took the plunge behind the microphone and has been connecting the dots for YourClassical MPR listeners for 29 years – including 21 as morning show host. Listen to his last regular shift, which took place on Aug. 28, as well as his “exit interview” with host Tom Crann.

As the largest gift the organization has ever received, artistic and executive director Scott Lykins says it will be used “to pave the way to a sustainable future.”

Concert band is a large part of classical music, yet many composers don't get the recognition they deserve for contributing to the genre. Here are 10 band composers you should know — besides the March King, John Philip Sousa.

YourClassical Programming at the Minnesota State Fair 2026