Classical Music’s Greatest Marathons: The Longest Works Ever Composed
Marathons, not sprints...
Don't Miss a Beat
Video: Pianist Hélène Tysman Plays Debussy, Bach, Chopin, Ravel
On an overcast, early fall day, pianist Hélène Tysman shared a sensitive, illuminating performance of piano works by Bach, Debussy, Chopin, and Ravel for this Dame Myra Hess Memorial Concert broadcast. Watch the full program here!
From 2014: Jessye Norman Visits WFMT
WFMT is deeply saddened to learn that soprano Jessye Norman has died at age 74. As a tribute to her inspiring life and career, we are re-sharing this story from when Ms. Norman herself visited WFMT.
Program Director David Polk shares his favorite musical memories from his 14 years at WFMT
After nearly 14 years at WFMT, David Polk has decided to move on. During his time, he's amassed a huge collection of music that he will always associate with the station. On his last day at WFMT, he wants to share with you just a few of the musical gems that he'll be taking with him in spirit.
Jessye Norman, the international opera star, dead at 74
The renowned international opera star, whose passionate soprano voice won her four Grammy Awards and the National Medal of Arts, has died.
The Sights and Soundbites of Lyric Opera’s Glamorous Opening Night
With the red carpet adorning Wacker Drive and the Art Deco opera house buzzing with excitement, Lyric Opera of Chicago celebrated its opening night on Saturday, September 28. Rossini’s Barber of Seville, the bubbly opera buffa, was an appropriate toast to the beginning of Lyric’s 65th season.
Playlist: Classical Music for an Abundant Autumn, Selected by WFMT
In the gap between a languid summer and a long winter, there's just enough room left for fall. It's a season for transformation, comfort, reflection, and growth. In other words, it's the perfect time to grab some cider, take in that brilliant fall foliage, and enjoy this playlist created for you by WFMT staff and hosts!
Pianist Paul Badura-Skoda dies at age 91
Badura-Skoda enjoyed a career that spanned more than seven decades, during which time, he was celebrated as a pianist, conductor, chamber musician, composer, and teacher. He performed into his nineties.
Esteban Batallán Named CSO Principal Trumpet
Since his first CSO performances in June 2018, Batallán has served as guest principal trumpet many times. The Spanish-born trumpeter performed with the orchestra during its 2019 Florida tour as well as in Tokyo during the 2019 Asia tour.
Postcards from Scandinavia — Lisa Flynn leads a musical journey to Denmark and Norway
One of the most exciting things about working at WFMT over the years has been the opportunity to travel on music-themed trips, meeting new friends who share a love of classical music. In early September, I led a group of eleven listeners on a journey to Denmark and Norway, where we saw cosmopolitan capitals and incredible natural beauty. Along the ...
Mixing Philip Glass & Coldplay: How Emmy Winner John Lunn Scored Downton Abbey
Lunn: "With Downton, the music is also carefully choreographed under the dialogue. I need to see exactly where and what it's going to be so I can get it right."


















