How do you feel about classical music?

When I’m doing tasks like cooking, exercising or cleaning.

When I’m reading or studying, for example.

When I’m relaxing, sleeping or just “hanging out.

When I’m paying attention solely to the music

When does listening to music bring you the most joy?

I attend a few shows a year, but it’s not a large part of my life.

I regularly attend live shows and can’t get enough of them.

Do you enjoy live music?

I know what I like and rarely stray from my favorites.

I’m open to new things, but there are classics for a reason.

I relish discovering the new and unfamiliar.

When it comes to listening to music …

I like folk, bluegrass and more traditional forms.

If it’s improvised and cool, I’m there.

If I’m not listening to classical music, I’m listening to …

Rooted in Black music history in the Americas and worldwide.

Going beyond Western Europe traditions, often influenced by folk music.

Drawing from traditional music of the Middle East, Southeast Asia and more.

Delving into traditional music of Native Americans and other First Nations.

Surveying traditional music of Central and South America, and the Caribbean.

Exploring traditional music cultures from around the world.

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being hawked by the Chinese piano virtuoso Lang Lang.

Wouldn't be the first time a great classical pianist helped to hawk high-zoot footwear.

In 1991, the Czech virtuoso Rudolf Firkusny became the first - and probably the last - classical pianist to be featured in a TV commercial for basketball shoes.

An advertising exec for Nike was an admirer of Firkusny's playing, so he teamed Firkusny up with David Robinson of the San Antonio Spurs. In their television commercial, Firkusny played Chopin, and even shot a basket. Firkusny

: "I think it was good that for once serious music was put together with sports. Music needs all kinds of encouragement."

Too bad this commercial hasn't found its way to YouTube...

John Birge has been hosting, producing and performing classical music for more than 25 years. Since 1997, he has been hosting on Minnesota Public Radio's Classical Music Service. He played French horn for the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestra and performed with them on their centennial tour of Europe in 1995. He was trained at the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Eastman School of Music and Interlochen Arts Academy.


John Birge

Opera Chic recently weighed in on the new limited edition Adidas sneaker being hawked by the Chinese piano virtuoso Lang Lang. Wouldn’t be the first time a great classical pianist helped to hawk high-zoot footwear. In 1991, the Czech virtuoso Rudolf Firkusny became the first – and probably the last – classical pianist to be […]


If the shoe fits, sell it!

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