Late 19th Century France

The works on this program were born out of the emotions experienced moving into a new stage of life while still mourning the previous one — emotions captured well by the two French composers featured. César Franck’s childhood was one defined by his father who pushed him into a world of music and performing that, while showcased his budding talent, …

The Hidden Gems of Maurice Ravel

Among the composer’s lesser known works are pieces inspired by ticking clocks, talking animals, and Madagascar folk songs!

Elgin Symphony ’25-’26: Enduring Classics, Notable Soloists, and New Works

Guest artists include cellist Oliver Herbert, violinist Geneva Lewis, and pianist Orion Weiss.

Playlist: Music for Piano Four Hands

Any chamber music demands a deceptive level of coordination and mastery. But what about when two artists are playing the same instrument, side-by-side?

8 Musical Side Dishes

Equally satisfying as the main course, these shorter works can round out your musical diet with different textures, flavors, and colors.

An Interview with Frederica von Stade

The legendary mezzo-soprano shares her love for Mozart, French mélodie, and American art song.

Playlist: Art Songs for Autumn

An autumnal assortment of songs in German, French, English, and even Swedish, each with their own take on the fall season.

Piano Chamber Music

Music by Ernst von Dohnányi and Gabriel Fauré highlights the piano’s role in chamber repertoire.

The Artistry of Pablo Casals, Part I

Highlights (including Elgar, Brahms, and Dvořák) from the career of what may be the preeminent cellist of the 20th century.

Playlist: Music for All Souls Day

All Souls Day (November 2) is a day of prayer and remembrance for departed loved ones observed in many branches of Christianity.

Playlist: 88 Piano Pieces for Piano Month

September is National Piano Month, so WFMT is sharing a supersized playlist – with one selection corresponding to each key on the keyboard.

Why Pianist Hélène Grimaud Flooded the Park Avenue Armory with 122,000 Gallons of Water

“We could have made a program with only pieces by Ravel, Debussy, and Liszt,” Grimaud said. “But I wanted to represent as many composers as possible, which meant only one piece per composer…”