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Leopold Stokowski was one of the most famous conductors in the early to mid-20th century. He was a pioneer in orchestral recording and his fame and flamboyance brought music to millions. Hear him infuse music with his unique “Stokowski touch.”

Vivaldi wasn’t the only composer to write music about the seasons. This week we have contrasting selections - not by Vivaldi - but all celebrating the wonderful time of year that is autumn.

Many composers have taken folk and national melodies and given them the full orchestral treatment. Enjoy music from Sweden, Ireland, Wales, and Norway in lush, creative orchestral settings that reveal the music in all its glory.

Among the constellation of his great works, Mozart’s incomparable Serenade No. 10 in B-flat for wind ensemble, also known as the 'Gran Partita,' is a bright star. It’s a true work of art, and we’ll enjoy an exceptional performance that brings it to life. You’re in for a wonderful treat!

Leopold Stokowski championed living composers and was especially taken with the music of Dmitri Shostakovich. We’ll hear an unforgettable live performance of Shostakovich’s Tenth Symphony in concert with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Buckle up…it’s quite a ride.

We continue our remembrance of the great pianist Radu Lupu, who passed away in April 2022. He was “a pianist’s pianist” who earned the highest praise from his professional colleagues. We’ll hear his incredible musicality in two contrasting works by Johannes Brahms.

In this new periodic series, explore different perspectives on a great musical work. This time it’s Bach’s miraculous Passacaglia and Fugue in C BWV 582. We have four different versions, each revealing new insights into the music.

We continue the series of outstanding recordings from the large catalog produced for 'Reader’s Digest' in the 1960s. Not only were these excellent performances, but the sonics were among the best out there. Hear fine recordings of music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Manuel de Falla.

Kansas City native Robert Russell Bennett is best known for his work on 300 Broadway scores, but he also composed significant concert works. We’ll hear excerpts from his major symphonic works, concerti, solo organ music, chamber music, and music for wind band. Bennett’s genius shines through in every one. I’m again joined by George Ferencz, the foremost authority on the life and music of Robert Russell Bennett, who provides excellent background and context.

In honor of Veterans Day Weekend, music from the epic television documentary “Victory at Sea.” Richard Rodgers provided the themes, but Kansas City native Robert Russell Bennett transformed those themes into over 11 hours of thrilling, dramatic music. He also conducted definitive recordings of selections from the full score, and we’ll hear this compelling music under his baton.