A Legacy of Musical Curiosity Continues with a New Voice
CHICAGO – December 10, 2025 – As Exploring Music enters its 22nd year, a new chapter begins for the popular and enduring classical music program produced by and presented on WFMT, Chicago’s classical music radio station, and internationally syndicated through the WFMT Radio Network. WFMT has named broadcaster, singer, and educator Peter van de Graaff the new host of Exploring Music to bring his warm presence, deep musical knowledge, and decades of radio experience to one of classical music’s most respected radio programs.
Exploring Music immerses listeners of all ages in the world of classical music. Each weekly five-episode arc centers on a single theme and uses engaging storytelling to foster understanding and appreciation of the art form. Founding host Bill McGlaughlin and now Peter van de Graaff weave together composers, poetry, literature, history, emotions, nature, and spirituality – inviting listeners to reflect and discover deeper connections within the music.
Peter van de Graaff has enjoyed a distinguished four-decade radio career, including 38 years as host of WFMT’s nationally syndicated Beethoven Network programming. A native of the Chicago area, Peter began his radio career in 1984 at Brigham Young University, shortly before graduating with a degree in vocal performance. Since joining WFMT in 1988, he has served as a staff announcer and host for major nationally distributed programs, including broadcasts from the Lyric Opera of Chicago, Vienna Philharmonic, the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, operas from the European Broadcasting Union, and Music of the Baroque. In 2010, he received the Karl Haas Prize for Music Education. A bass-baritone, Peter has performed with leading orchestras and opera companies worldwide, including the Chicago Symphony, Utah Symphony, Houston Symphony, Israeli Chamber Orchestra, Costa Rica International Music Festival, Budapest Concert Orchestra, and Czech Philharmonic. An avid traveler and linguist, Peter speaks Dutch, French, and German.
“Exploring Music has a matchless history of creating deep and meaningful connections to classical music for listeners around the world,” said Roger Wight, WFMT’s Head of Programming and Operations. “As we usher Exploring Music into a new era, Peter brings his warm and engaging presence to that legacy, along with a lifetime of musical knowledge.”
“I’ve been listening to Exploring Music since it began, and it’s an honor to step into the role of host,” said Peter van de Graaff. “This program has inspired curiosity and joy for listeners everywhere, and I’m excited to guide audiences through new musical adventures.”
For more than two decades, Exploring Music has been a cornerstone of classical radio – a treasured presence that inspires curiosity and delight. As new programs hosted by Peter are introduced, listeners will still enjoy founding host Bill McGlaughlin’s wit and charm in other weeks as he continues to explore the meaning behind the music. Peter will also continue in his longtime role as host of the Beethoven Network.
Exploring Music is a production of WFMT in Chicago, and is produced by Cydne Gillard.
Exploring Music is made possible by the generous support of the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Helen Zell; the Earl and Brenda Shapiro Family; Mr. and Mrs. William G. Brown; Eugene Jarvis and Sasha Gerritson; the Julian Family Foundation; and the generous support of WFMT members.
WFMT is one of the world’s most respected classical music radio stations, accessible via broadcast at 98.7FM, streaming live at wfmt.com, and on the WFMT app. Recognized for trusted hosted programming, immersive live performances and concerts, strong partnerships with community organizations and championing young, local musicians and access to the arts, WFMT spotlights inspiring music, musicians, and musical performances from Chicago and around the world including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Sinfonietta, Lyric Opera of Chicago, the New York Philharmonic, and many more. Connect with WFMT on Facebook and X.
