Sounds Classical

Sounds Classical with Kristina and LaRobSeason 2 Begins April 6

Fresh perspectives on classical music sounds

In this innovative and immersive radio program, Sounds Classical hosts Kristina Lynn and LaRob K. Rafael present a range of musical works inclusive of well-known composers and new discoveries alike. The program will feature surprising and personal takes, lean-in interviews and exciting new works composed and performed, in many cases, by local artists. Along the way, the hosts will share lively and insightful commentary, providing context for the listener that makes this beautiful and dynamic art form fresh and accessible.

Sounds Classical Playlist Vol. 4

April 26, 2025, 7:00 pm

In this episode, Kristina and LaRob give you another playlist of handpicked compositions that showcase the diverse nature of classical influences woven into modern music! Tune in for music from Mason Bates, Jennifer Thomas, and Xavier Foley!

Sounds Like Chicago

May 3, 2025, 7:00 pm

Sounds Classical’s Season 3 premiere features a playlist honoring our homebase: Chicago. Tune in for music inspired by the Windy City, including works by Shawn E. Okpebholo, Sofiane Pamart, Tomeka Reid, and more.

Small but Mighty

May 10, 2025, 7:00 pm

In the 21st century classical landscape, more and more composers are stepping away from large symphonic writing and diving into the ways one can make effective and meaningful sounds with smaller ensembles. Join the hosts for a playlist of great chamber works!

Music for Children

May 17, 2025, 7:00 pm

When you think of your childhood, what music comes to mind? This week, LaRob and Kristina invite listeners both young and young-at-heart to enjoy a playlist of classical music written especially for kids.

John Jeter – Fort Smith Symphony Music Director

May 24, 2025, 7:00 pm

LaRob K. Rafael and Kristina Lynn talk with conductor John Jeter, music director of Arkansas’s Fort Smith Symphony, about his work to affect change in expanding classical music programming.

New Sounds of the Past

May 31, 2025, 7:00 pm

This week, Kristina and LaRob share an intriguing playlist of recently discovered or rediscovered works in classical music.

Meet the Hosts

LaRob K. Rafael
LaRob K. Rafael joined the WFMT announcing staff in 2020 as a fill-in host and became WFMT’s full-time weekend morning host and producer in Fall of 2021. A Bass-Baritone from the DMV area (Maryland), LaRob has been involved with music since childhood and is a graduate of DePaul University, where he studied Vocal Performance. He has since gone on to work with arts organizations including Lyric Opera of Chicago, La Caccina (a professional women’s ensemble), Black Opera Alliance, Black Administrators of Opera, and Sphinx Organization to name a few. He is the Founder and Artistic Director of Hearing in Color and combines his experience and research to change the predominantly white, European, male classical canon.
Kristina Lynn
Kristina Lynn is a producer and host at WFMT, presenting both Sounds Classical with LaRob K. Rafael, and Evening Music on Friday nights. She has hosted live performances and artist interviews with the Rush Hour Concerts and has done voiceover work for the WFMT Radio Network. With an easygoing approach, Kristina aims to welcome all types of listeners to classical music and explore the art form from a 21st-century perspective. She holds a Bachelor of Music degree specializing in Trumpet Performance from DePaul University. Before announcing at WFMT, she has previously worked in radio production at both WFMT and at WQXR in New York.
Saturdays at 7:00 pm

Sounds Classical is made possible, in part by Lori Julian for the Julian Family Foundation, Sylvia Furner, a lifelong WFMT listener, and by the generous support of WFMT members.

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