Brian's Picks: Eric Whitacre

The St. Olaf Christmas Festival has become one of the nation's most cherished holiday celebrations. Listen now as the Northfield-based college presents its 2022 program, “Promise of Peace,” from Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis, with host Valerie Kahler, in this one-hour special.

The Minneapolis youth choir Known MPLS is making an impact in song and in community. ‘Known MPLS first and foremost exists to consistently provide a safe space for youth to thrive,’ director Courtland Pickens says. Find out more about these remarkable singers, and watch their performance of ‘Up Above My Head.’

Over three days in mid-November, the Voces8 Scholars, the U.S.-based training ensemble for the U.K.’s esteemed Voces8, recorded two Christmas songs prepared exclusively for YourClassical MPR listeners as part of our Carol Countdown. Watch now!

The artistic collective Sing Democracy 250 recently marked the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a powerful message of hope for democracy through music. Listen now to this one-hour special, hosted by John Birge, that encourages us to build a more perfect union together!

‘Christmas With Cantus’ is a beloved holiday tradition for YourClassical MPR listeners featuring the eight voices of the male vocal ensemble live in concert.

'All Is Bright', with host Lynne Warfel, offers an hour of gorgeous, contemplative choral music that tells the traditional Christmas story with songs about angels, the star and the manger scene. Featured artists include Cantus, Chanticleer, Cambridge Singers, Bryn Terfel, Emma Kirkby, Jessye Norman, and a variety of choirs.

The American rail system is a metaphor for how culture has changed over the centuries. To celebrate America's 250th anniversary, join violinist and composer Curtis Stewart for ‘I Am the Migration,’ a special featuring Stewart’s own family's American story, which he used as inspiration for his new set of 24 American Caprices.

Despite being a fundamental part of life on earth, change is difficult for everybody. Join host Zuzu Black for ‘Transitioning: The Music of Change,’ an hourlong special featuring Queer and trans musicians that explores the many complex and interwoven facets of change. Listen now!

May 26 marks the birth centenary of one of America’s most prolific and revolutionary composers: Miles Davis. In celebration, join host Kevin O’Connor for selections from Davis’ most influential album, as well as commentary and facts about Davis’ life, in Milestones: Kind of Blue.

At a time when everything around us feels disconnected and divisive, how do we hold on? Melanie DeMore uses the power of music to bring us together in ‘How to Hold On,’ a radio special featuring her original songs of comfort and solace performed by VocalEssence. Listen now with host Julie Amacher!