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From the Archives with Frank Byrne
Saturdays, 11 a.m - noon Sundays, 6 - 7 p.m.

From the Archives is a curated tour of the world’s greatest composers, conductors and performers, captured in distinctive and memorable audio recordings.

Building on a lifetime of collecting recordings, host Frank Byrne shares the best performances he knows, each with a special element that sets it apart. A lifelong student of classical music, Byrne’s love of collecting classical music is only eclipsed by his joy in sharing it with friends.

Thanks to the wealth of recorded classical music available today, we have the opportunity to explore and consider performances that the average listener may never have heard. Listening together on From the Archives, we will gain insights to those great musicians who truly bring this music to life. Please join us.

A man in a button up shirt and glasses gazes into the distance against a backdrop with Classical KC's logo on it.
Laura Fotovich
We’ve reached another milestone together – it’s the 200th episode of From the Archives. It’s a program with some of Frank Byrne's favorite music, each with a personal connection.
  • It’s a holiday tradition! Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker is a beloved tale with exquisite music that brings the story to life. We’ll hear the ultimate list of highlights in a special recording that captures the true balletic soul of the music.
  • For centuries the world has been captivated by these fantastic and exotic tales dating to the 10th century. They have also been the inspiration for countless works of art, including wonderfully colorful music that we feature in this show.
  • Dr. Donald Hunsberger, conductor of the famed Eastman Wind Ensemble from 1965 to 2002, passed away on November 5th. Hear some of his great recordings and personal reminiscences of this outstanding conductor, educator and musician.
  • Inspired by Autumn and Thanksgiving, we have a program of music with many moods. We have selections by Joachim Raff, Ralph Vaughan Williams and a stunning performance of a classic Thanksgiving melody.
  • 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.