MPR Hero Stories

On the latest episode of ‘Extra Eclectic,' we’re considering astronomy, astrophysics, and the atomic age with works by Caroline Shaw, Meredith Monk, Mary Lattimore, Jennifer Higdon and more. Listen now with host Steve Seel!

On Friday, Aug. 29, 2025, Minnesota Public Radio’s annual MPR Day took place at Dan Patch Park at the Minnesota State Fair. The day included music by a brass quintet featuring members of the Minnesota Orchestra.

The BBC Proms concerts return to YourClassical for the 2025 season. Enjoy live performances featuring world-class ensembles, conductors and soloists from London and elsewhere in the United Kingdom. Listen at 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. on weekdays through Sept. 26 — plus on-demand audio for 30 days afterward.

On the latest episode of ‘New Classical Tracks,’ young saxophonist Jess Gillam talks about her new project, a series of EPs titled ‘Prism’ that explore the different permutations of the saxophone’s sound. Listen now with host Julie Amacher!

We’re contemplating the importance and mystery of our planet on the latest episode of ‘Extra Eclectic,’ with two hours of Earth-themed works, including selections from the 2025 BBC Proms festival. Listen now with host Steve Seel!

On the latest episode of ‘New Classical Tracks,’ mandolinist Avi Avital talks about his latest project with the Between Worlds Ensemble: an album that explores how folk music can fuel new progressive concert music. Listen now with host Julie Amacher!

Jay Capperauld’s work ‘Bruckner’s Skull’ begins our summer of highlights from this year’s BBC Proms Festival on ‘Extra Eclectic’, and also serves as point of departure for this show’s theme of contemporary composers honoring composers from the past. Listen now with host Steve Seel!

On the latest episode of ‘New Classical Tracks,’ John Jeter leads the Malmo Symphony Orchestra, alongside soloists Han Chen and Fanny Clamagirand, in music by Florence Price and William Grant Still. Listen now with host Julie Amacher!

The annual Lakes Area Music Festival in Brainerd, Minnesota, runs July 25 to August 17. Listen to YourClassical MPR on August 11 to 14, at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Friday, Aug. 15, at 3 p.m., to hear concert highlights from the festival.

You’ll swear Humphrey Bogart as Sam Spade is on the trail of his latest case while listening to this week’s episode of ‘Extra Eclectic’ — as we listen to music depicting the mystery and romance of the city at night. Listen now with host Steve Seel!