@ the Symphony

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra closed out their 2026 European Tour in Vienna with the 2nd of two concerts at the Konzerthaus on September 10, 2026. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra's Vice-President of Artistic Planning during intermission to talk about the tour. She talks about the great repertoire on the tour; the audience reaction to the PSO concerts; how festivals are asking for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra; and how it's special to end the tour in Vienna, the home country of Music Director Manfred Honeck. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Anne-Sophie Mutter played twice on the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra's 2026 European Tour - in Lucerne and in Cologne - playing the Penderecki Metamorphosen, Violin Concerto No. 2. The piece was written for her by Penderecki with him Anne-Sophie had a close friendship. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham sat down with Anne-Sophie to talk about the concerto and lots more. She says the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is her favorite American orchestra. She recalls some Andre Previn memories; working with Herbert van Karajan when she was 13 years old; her presence on social media; and how she wants to be "a good musician who knows what to do!" Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Robin Meloy Goldsby grew up in Pittsburgh and her father played percussion on Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. She studied at Chatham College and now lives in Cologne, Germany playing piano at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham stopped by the hotel to talk to Robin about her father; growing up in Pittsburgh; stories about her teacher Henry Spinelli; new books and CDs she's made; and the joy of seeing Manfred Honeck when he stops by when the orchestra is in Cologne! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Principal Cello Anne Martindale Williams was hired by William Steinberg and made Principal by Andre Previn. After 50 years, she's retiring from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra after the recently concluded European Tour. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham had a conversation with Anne in Essen Germany about her extraordinary career; her past tour experiences; her plans for retirement and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra heads home from their 2026 European Tour after playing their final concert at the Vienna Konzerthaus last night. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham managed to interview several people about the last concert and the tour in particular. He spoke with Francisco Joubert Bernard – Second Bassoonist of the Louisville Orchestra and will be with the PSO in the 2026-2027 Season; guest pianist Alexandre Kantorow; Mary Persin – Vice President of Artistic Planning of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra; Gus Faucher – Chief Economist for PNC Bank; Alexis Trbovich – Student at the Central European University in Vienna and former WQED-FM Intern; and Manfred Honeck's wife Christiane. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

That's a wrap! The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played their final concert of the 2026 European Tour tonight at the Konzerthaus in Vienna, Austria. Manfred Honeck conducted the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 and Alexandre Kantorow played the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 1. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham called in with a live report after the concert where he said the audience reaction was tremendous. He also spoke with PSO Concertmaster David McCarroll in Essen, Germany to get his thoughts on the tour and how he was looking forward to performing in the Konzerthaus, where he played many times when he was a member of the Vienna Piano Trio before coming to Pittsburgh. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The end is near for the 2026 European Tour as the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra plays their final two concerts at the Konzerhaus in Vienna, Austria - Music Director Manfred Honeck's home country. It was a busy day as the orchestra travelled from Essen to Dortmund to Vienna this morning and then gave their first concert tonight, which was then followed by some special chamber music performances afterwards. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham called in live with a report on the day, including the rousing response to the orchestra's concert of John Adams' "Short Ride in a Fast Machine," Barber's Violin Concerto with Augustin Hadelich and the Dvorak Symphony No. 9. He also talked about the post concert events, and we hear from Assistant Principal Horn Zachary Smith and his wife about the tour. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Principal Cello Anne Martindale Williams has been with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for 50 years. This current European Tour is her last as she is retiring at the conclusion of the tour. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with Anne in Essen, Germany about her tremendous career; her thoughts on the current tour; how she won't be putting the cello away as she will still be teaching; and memories of previous tours, including a memorable interaction with a child when the orchestra played in Russia back in the late 80's. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham checks in live from Essen, Germany after the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played at the Philharmonie. Jim talks about the enthusiastic response from the sold out audience for their program of John Adams' Short Ride in a Fast Machine; Dvorak Symphony No. 9, and Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, with Alexandre Kantorow. Manfred Honeck conducted two encores. You also hear Jim's interview with Anne-Sophie Mutter in Lucerne, who played the Penderecki — Metamorphosen, Violin Concerto No. 2 twice on this tour - in Lucerne and in Cologne, Germany. She talks about the difficulty of the piece, her early beginnings on the concert stage and how the Pittsburgh Symphony is her favorite American orchestra. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke to some concertgoers who saw the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra's performance at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam on September 7, 2026. He spoke with PSO Board Member Bill Rackoff and his wife Nancy; Stefanie Pashman, CEO of Allegheny Conference on Community Development; Paul Severns, who was a former employee of PPG and now lives in Amsterdam; and Christopher Wu, retired PSO Violinist who is playing with the orchestra on this tour. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra had just concluded it's concert at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam when WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham called in for a post-concert report. He was joined by PSO Principal Contrabassoon Jim Rodgers who talked about the acoustics of the hall, and the reaction of the audience to a mostly American concert program; seeing Carlos Simon, the composer of Four Black American Dances, being at the concert to take a bow after the orchestra played his piece. We also heard Jim's conversation with Tatjana Mead, Associate Principal Viola, who talked about the Penderecki concerto the orchestra played in Lucerne; her tour experience so far; visiting Poland for the first time on this tour; and how she never tires of playing with her colleagues in the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra arrives in Amsterdam to play a concert at the famous Concertgebouw. Manfred Honeck will conduct Dvorak's Symphony No. 9 and Four Black American Dances by Carlos Simon. Augustin Hadelich will play the Barber Violin Concerto. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham called in to the QED morning show from Amsterdam with former Pittsburgher and now Amsterdam resident Albert Manders who will be attending the concert. We also hear Jim's interview with Neil Berntsen who is retiring and playing on his final tour with the orchestra. He's still teaching at CMU so he won't be closing the trumpet case entirely! And we hear from former WQED-FM colleague Stephen Baum, now at WGUC in Cincinnati who is looking forward to hearing the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in one of the best sounding halls in the world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra plays at the famed Concertgebouw in Amsterdam on Monday September 7th. Pittsburgher Albert Manders has lived in Amsterdam for many years. He spoke with Jim Cunningham about the hall, the acoustics, the unique way for the conductor to get on stage, and much more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra had a well deserved off day in Lucerne after performing 2 concerts at the Kultur & Kongresszentrum. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham called in with a live report to talk about the 2nd concert featuring Anne-Sophie Mutter. He managed to get an interview with her which will be heard on a later tour report. He also mentioned seeing many concert goers in formal dress for the concert. The report also features an interview with former Assistant Concertmaster Mark Huggins, who now lives in Portugal, but made the trip specially to hear his old orchestra play. He recalls the PSO's previous tour to Poland in 1989 and how that tour was 5 weeks long! He also confirms seeing James Galway at the Lucerne concert the previous night. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham checks in live from Lucerne after the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra performed their first of two concerts at the Kultur and Kongresszentrum last night. Jim tells Bryan Sejvar that the stars were out to see the PSO, including James Galway! Jim spoke with PSO President and CEO Melia Tourangeau about the tour so far and what she wants Pittsburghers to know about this tour. There is another concert in Lucerne tonight and then a much needed day off before traveling to Cologne. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played their second of two performances at the Elbphilharmonie on September 2, 2026. Manfred Honeck conducted an American-themed concert with Carlos Simon's 4 Black American Dances and Dvorak's Symphony No. 9. Augustin Hadelich played the Barber Violin Concerto, with "Traumerie" by Robert Schumann as an encore. In this Tour Report, CEO of Deutsche Klassik introduces the Pittsburgh Symphony; WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham chats with Jeremy Black, Principal 2nd Violin and Music Director Manfred Honeck, who talks about meeting the 'ghost' of Dvorak when he first conducted the Dvorak Symphony No. 9. Jim also spoke with two PSO Donor who are on the trip - Michele Fabrizi and PSO Board President Tony Bucci - who both say the Symphony is outplaying many of the finest orchestras in the world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham calls in to the QED Morning Show with Anna Singer live from Hamburg, Germany. The Pittsburgh Symphony plays at the Elbphilharmonie later today for their 2nd concert with Carlos Simon's Four Black Dances; Barber's Violin Concerto with Augustin Hadelich, and the Dvorak Symphony No. 9. Jim talks about last night's concert with Alexandre Kantorow playing the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 1 and the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5. Jim is joined by his son - Jim the 4th - who is playing in the orchestra as a substitute. Jimmy talks about his experience of the tour so far and how it is a pleasure to play with the orchestra that he grew up watching and listening both at Heinz Hall and on WQED-FM! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Warsaw, Poland, WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with PSO Principal Horn Bill Caballero and PSO Principal Oboe Cynthia Koledo DeAlmeida. They were joined by Roman Markowicz - a Polish-born classical pianist, chamber musician, and long-time music critic based in New York, who says the PSO has never sounded better. Gabriel Czopka, Principal Horn of the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra, has known Bill for years and said the Pittsburgh Symphony's performance in Warsaw was "pure beauty." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham calls in live from Hamburg, Germany to the QED Morning Show with Anna Singer. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra will play their first of two concerts at the Elbphilharmonie tonight. Jim tells Anna about the Hall where the symphony will play, and talks about the highlights from the Warsaw concerts. He mentions what some of the musicians have been up to as well as Jim's side trip to Berlin. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham reports from Warsaw, Poland. He spoke with Principal Tuba Craig Knox. Craig talks about how nice it is to perform in a new city (the PSO has not been to Poland since 1989); the audience reaction to their performance and how he was able to see his teacher at the concert. Jim also spoke with Music Director Manfred Honeck who was pleased with how the orchestra has performed the first few concerts of the tour. He also talked about how he came up with the program for the Poland concert and the relevance of playing the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 in Warsaw. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fresh off their concert at the Salzburg Festival, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Principal Flute Nikolai Song and Assistant Principal Bass Michael Banks spoke with Anna Singer live on the QED Morning Show. They talk about the differences between performing in Merano, Italy and in Salzburg; the difference between Pittsburgh audiences and European audiences; and the concerts they are looking forward to. It's exciting for both players since this is the first European tour for both of them and while it's fun, they explain that it's a lot of work. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From August 26 to September 10, 2026, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra returns to Europe for a 13-concert tour across six countries and nine cities, the orchestra's 45th international tour in its history. Led by Music Director Manfred Honeck, the PSO will appear at many of Europe's most prestigious venues and festivals, including the Salzburg Festival, the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg, and the Vienna Konzerthaus. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with Maestro Honeck about the tour; the soloists joining them; and the music being performed on the tour. Maestro Honeck also talked about recently conducting Strauss' "Ariadne auf Naxos" at the Salzburg Festival and what coffee shops he recommends in Vienna. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Danny Elfman brings a brand-new symphonic project featuring music from his celebrated film career to Pittsburgh! Danny speaks with Jim Cunningham ahead of the concert about the program and his career. Danny will premiere five new pieces with the PSO, while featuring favorites from The Nightmare Before Christmas, Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, and more. He talks about working with Tim Burton and violinist Sandy Cameron, as well as his "Halloween reputation." Danny also shares with Jim how special it is to play with a symphony orchestra and what success means to him. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pianist and composer Andrew Kierszenbaum plays music from the hit show Arcane with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra! He speaks with Jim Cunningham about working on the show, classical inspirations, and what fans should expect. The Music of Arcane is Andrew's love letter to the series and to the world its art, story, and music bring to life. As both one of the show’s composers and a classical pianist, he hopes to tell that story at the piano with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra—through his original arrangements of the show’s soundtrack. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played an all-American program to finish their classical season on Friday June 19th, 2026. It was to celebrate American 250 and featured Manfred Honeck conducting a brand new piece by Michael Daugherty titled "Dancing in the Streets," Jesse Montgomery's "Strum" and Aaron Copland's "Appalachian Spring" which included 10 members of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre on stage during the performance. Plus, Augustin Hadelich played the Barber Violin Concerto. WQED-FM broadcast the concert live. Before the concert, Jim Cunningham spoke to PSO Associate Principal Trombone Douglas Rosenthal (00:00) and Associate Principal Violist Tatjana Mead (08:18) to get their thoughts on the concert. During intermission, Jim was joined by Music Director Manfred Honeck (12:12), guest violinist Augustin Hadelich (17:56), and composer Michael Daugherty (22:16). And after the concert, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre dancer Madeline Gradle (30:02) talks about the choreography for "Appalachian Spring" and the thrill she had to perform it with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Academy Award-winning actor F. Murray Abraham makes an appearance with the Pittsburgh Symphony as the narrator of Aaron Copland's Lincoln Portrait. He speaks with Jim Cunningham ahead of the performances about the piece. Abraham remembers his Pittsburgh roots, growing up in the Hill District. He praises the "generosity of spirit" that is unique to Pittsburgh. In reference to Lincoln Portrait, he praises Copland's music and emphasizes the power of Abraham Lincoln's words. Abraham says he admires Manfred Honeck implicitly, and has enjoyed working on this piece, as well as narrating the PSO's recording of Mozart's Requiem. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Wednesday June 10th, 2025, the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra announced they have renewed the contract of Music Director Manfred Honeck through 2033, which will make him the longest tenured Music Director in the history of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra! WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with Manfred about why he decided to stay with the PSO, even though he's had offers from other orchestras over the years; his great relationship with the musicians of the PSO; the joy of having his family around him more while in Pittsburgh; and the excitement of the final two weekends of concerts. Jim also spoke with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra President and CEO Melia Tourangeau about the the renewal; the importance of the symphony for the city of Pittsburgh; and how Manfred is carrying on the great legacy of Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Music Directors. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra announced the renewal of Manfred Honeck's contract through 2033 at a Press Conference on Wednesday June 10th, 2026 at Heinz Hall. Speakers included PSO President and CEO Melia Tourangeau, PSO Board Chair Antony Bucci, PSO Concertmaster David McCarroll, Mayor Corey O'Connor, and Manfred Honeck. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Friday May 29th, 2026, WQED-FM broadcast the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra concert live from Heinz Hall. Led by Gemma New making her PSO debut, the orchestra played "Rainphase" by Salina Fisher and "Scheherazade" by Rimsky-Korsakov. Stefan Jackiw returned after more than 10 years to play the Korngold Violin Concerto. Before the concert, WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with PSO cellist Charlie Powers about the concert, as well two performances he's giving of the 1st 3 Bach Cello Suites - Saturday May 30th, 7pm at Park Presbyterian Church in Beaver and June 6, 2:30pm at PNC Recital Hall on Duquesne's campus. Jim also spoke to the new Principal Bassoon of the PSO - Julia Harguindey. Julia spoke about growing up in Argentina, moving to Montreal and then studying at Curtis in Philadelphia. During intermission, Jim spoke with New Zealand-born guest conductor Gemma New, who said it takes about 30 hours to get from her home country to Pittsburgh. She also spoke about her recent recording of Bruch, the work she is doing as Principal Conductor of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, and what people can expect from Scheherazade in the 2nd half of the concert. Soloist Stefan Jackiw also spoke to Jim about the Korngold concerto and his encore of a Bach Sonata. He remembers his last time in Pittsburgh playing in the Junction Trio for Chamber Music Pittsburgh and talks about where his busy schedule has him going next. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rising star British conductor Edward Gardner makes his debut May 15th and 17th at Heinz Hall with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Sitting down in his dressing room after a double rehearsal on Thursday afternoon, he told Jim Cunningham about his program with Oliver Knussen's "Flourish with Fireworks," Beethoven's First Piano Concerto and Tchaikovsky's Sixth Symphony. So was the Sixth a farewell to the world? Edward has chosen the approach that doesn't make the score dreary or heart on the sleeve. Knussen and other British composers are favorites. He has enjoyed the Pittsburgh Symphony and the City on first impression with a walk around downtown. He's been a regular at the BBC Proms including last summer (2025) where he conducted "The Rose Lake" by Sir Michael Tippett who visited Pittsburgh at Andre Previn's invitation. Edward Gardner has more than 70 recordings in the Discogs online catalog. He suggested some to listen to including the "Dream of Gerontius" by Elgar, favorites by Tania Leon and Tippett's "A Child of Our Time." Conducting opera is important for him with a Wagner Ring Cycle on the way in Norway and hope of more work at the Metropolitan Opera where he's conducted five operas. 'A Force to Be Reckoned With' was the headline in the Hugh Morris May 2026 profile from the New York Times with a summary of his work on this American visit.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 2 is her favorite but she knows them all. Yulianna Avdeeva brings the 2nd to Heinz Hall with the Pittsburgh Symphony April 10th and 12th conducted by Rafael Payare. Yulianna Avdeeva spoke with Jim Cunningham about the special features of the Second Concerto. It is filled with tricky writing but born in Moscow, Yulianna Avdeeva has special love for the complex composer who returned to Russia with Stalin in charge after success in Paris and Chicago where he heard the premiere of the opera Love For Three Oranges. Yulianna Avdeeva discusses her recording of "The Life of the Machines" by Wladislav Szpilman who was brought to life in Roman Polansky's film "The Pianist" depicting the wartime world of Szpilman playing Chopin at the Warsaw Radio while the bombs fell. Was it realistic? Avdeeva knows members of Szpilman's family. She has been in France to give a recital in Aix-en-Provence and she is off to Rafaael Payare's Montreal Orchestra where she will work with guest conductor Simone Young. She has high praise for the Pittsburgh Symphony and remembers her live broadcast playing Prokofiev with Petr Popelka with special pleasure. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rafael Payare has been a rising star for more than a decade having worked with Gustavo Dudamel, Claudio Abbado, Daniel Barenboim and Lorin Maazel on his way to the Music Director spot in Montreal and San Diego. In his dressing room with the portrait of former Pittsburgh Symphony Music Director Lorin Maazel looking over his shoulder, he tells Jim Cunningham he loved playing the French Horn in the Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra, but his life is even richer with two daughters and wife Alisa Weilerstein who sometimes join him for concertos. He has hired thirty new members of the San Diego Symphony at the Jacobs Center after a huge investment has now greatly improved acoustics with a Wall Street Journal headline 'Splendid New Sound' from opening night 2024. His father was a cartographer in Venezuela where Maestro Payare benefited greatly from the Il Sistema training which brought his 'Brother" Dudamel to the front of the orchestra world. Jimmy Lopez' "Peru Negro" has a premiere here in Pittsburgh and he'll lead it in San Diego where Lopez is Composer-in-Residence along with Montreal. Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring" never fails to provide a charge for the conductor who has been described as 'electrifying'.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Principal Guest Conductor of the Metropolitan Opera, Daniele Rustioni, speaks with Jim Cunningham in the Guest Conductor's Dressing Room at Heinz Hall about his program for March 27,28 and 29, with Yefim Bronfman playing the Schumann Concerto, Beethoven's Eroica Symphony and Samuel Barber's School for Scandal Overture. Maestro Rustioni discusses his upcoming concerts, his work in Pittsburgh (including his visit to Carnegie Hall in December 2025 to hear the Orchestra play), and his operatic engagements in Europe. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Piano superstar Yefim Bronfman is a Mets fan. Yefim also loves making his coffee mostly at home in New York when he isn't jetting around China, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Pittsburgh, Boston or wherever great music happens.     He spoke with Jim Cunningham in his dressing room at Heinz Hall after rehearsing the Schumann Concerto. He plays March 27-29 with Daniele Rustioni and the Pittsburgh Symphony. It's their first time working together.     Yefim also talks about his love for the opera but gets to the Met only now and then with his full calendar. He admires Clara Schumann but has not yet played her music. He has met members of the extended Schumann family and Franz Schubert's family was represented in a chance meeting in Los Angeles. Yefim plays the fierce Alfred Schnittke Concerto and music by Mathias Pintscher too but he is a master of the classics of Vienna and Central Europe. Is classical music growing or getting smaller? It is changing, he says while noting that Music Director Andris Nelsons of the Boston Symphony will be all right. It is a big loss to have his contract end after next season.     Pittsburgh is a favorite stop. He's be back next season with Liszt and there is talk of adding one more concert next fall.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Music Director Manfred Honeck, plays Mahler's Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection". WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with mezzo-soprano Kate Lindsey. She talks about singing with Ying Fang before; her thoughts on the music; and this being her very first time in Pittsburgh, even though she grew up in Virginia. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Music Director Manfred Honeck, plays Mahler's Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection". WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with soprano Ying Fang. She talks about her work with Manfred Honeck; doing the piece recently with Yannick Nezet-Seguin; performing Mozart's Idomeneo with Manfred at the Met; and her espresso machine she takes on the road with her. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Piano legend, global classical music superstar, and Musical America Artist of the year 2026 Emanuel Ax plays Brahms' First Concerto with Manfred Honeck and the Pittsburgh Symphony this weekend at Heinz Hall! WQED's Jim Cunningham ventured down to Heinz Hall for a chat with Mr. Ax during Friday's rehearsals.   Ax talks about his honors and the memory he has of pianist Arthur Rubinstein at the Rubinstein Competition in Tel Aviv in 1974, as well as the premiere of the John Williams's Piano Concerto written for him and heard with the composer onstage last year in Los Angeles. He remembers many Pittsburgh personalities with great warmth, including Byron Janis, Andre Previn, Lorin Maazel, and Mariss Jansons.   Ax reflects on the Brahms, calling it a piece full of "Hungarian passion," and highlights some of his favorite recordings. He also provides his outlook on the current state of classical music in the public world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Friday February 13, 2026, WQED-FM broadcast the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra concert live from Heinz Hall. The concert featured Arturs Maskats "Tango;" Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 5 with soloist Randall Goosby; Barber's Adagio for Strings, and Bernstein's Symphonic Dances from "West Side Story." After the concert, WQED-FM's Anna Singer spoke with Jim Cunningham about the scene in the lobby with the table of WQED giveaways; her thoughts on the concert; and a rundown of the many concerts taking place this weekend in Southwestern PA. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Friday February 13, 2026, WQED-FM broadcast the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra concert live from Heinz Hall. The concert featured Arturs Maskats "Tango;" Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 5 with soloist Randall Goosby; Barber's Adagio for Strings, and Bernstein's Symphonic Dances from "West Side Story." During intermission, WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham was joined by Music Director Manfred Honeck, who talked about the Mozart and the playing of Randall Goosby; this being the first time he ever conducted the Symphonic Dances by Bernstein; and if Valentine's Day is celebrated in Austria. Jim was also joined by Randall Goosby, who talked about his encore - Coleridge Taylor Perkinson's "Louisiana Blue Strut, A Cakewalk"; playing the Mozart; and how he hopes to come back to Pittsburgh when the weather is warmer so he can play golf at Oakmont! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On Friday February 13, 2026, WQED-FM broadcast the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra concert live from Heinz Hall. The concert featured Arturs Maskats "Tango;" Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 5 with soloist Randall Goosby; Barber's Adagio for Strings, and Bernstein's Symphonic Dances from "West Side Story." Prior to the start of the concert WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham was joined by cellist Charlie Powers, who talked about their post-concert performance of Elgar and Bernstein, and traveling to Florida in a few weeks with a few other members of the Orchestra for a short chamber tour. Jim was also joined by Alejandro Pinzon, who is the director of the Pittsburgh Civic Orchestra. He talked about playing the bandoneon on the first piece in the program - "Tango." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with PSO guest violinist Josef Spacek making his Heinz Hall debut with the Dvorak Violin Concerto. Spacek spoke about his long relationship with guest conductor Petr Popelka; his work in his native country and arrival in the US at Curtis in Philadelphia before going to Julliard where he studied with Itzhak Perlman. Spacek has worked to develop a new line of violin strings, which he will be playing on his Guarneri del Gesu violin. He spoke about his recent recording of the Martinu concertos and how he found love, marrying an American girl whom he met in France. Spacek says he's delighted to learn about Pittsburgh and hopes to bring his family for a visit soon. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with returning guest conductor Petr Popelka leading the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra in Brahms' Academic Festival Overture, the Dvorak Violin Concerto and Bartok's Concerto for Orchestra. Maestro Popelka speaks in his dressing room about Pittsburgh's connection to the Bartok Concerto for Orchestra; his work with soloist Josef Spacek; their love of fellow countryman Antonin Dvorak; his successful debut with the Berlin Philharmonic; and his love of radio. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM was at Heinz Hall for a live broadcast of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra on Friday January 16, 2026. The concert featured guest conductor Dima Slobodeniouk conducting "Flounce" by Lotta Wennakoski and the Sibelius Symphony No. 2, along with Lucas and Arthur Jussen playing the Poulenc Concerto for Two Pianos. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham was joined by Vice President of Artistic Planning for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Mary Persin. She spoke about tonight's concert; the orchestra's outreach program in libraries happening all spring; and upcoming concerts she's looking forward to hosting at Heinz Hall. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM was at Heinz Hall for a live broadcast of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra on Friday January 16, 2026. The concert featured guest conductor Dima Slobodeniouk conducting "Flounce" by Lotta Wennakoski and the Sibelius Symphony No. 2, along with Lucas and Arthur Jussen playing the Poulenc Concerto for Two Pianos. WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham was joined by guest conductor Dima Slobodeniouk during intermission to talk about the concert; his friendship with Lotta Wennakoski and her piece "Flounce;" working with the Pittsburgh Symphony; conducting Beethoven 9th's in Vienna; and his upcoming engagements. Also joining Jim during intermission were the piano soloists Lucas and Arthur Jussen. They spoke about the Poulenc piece as well their encore; what they will do with their day off before Sunday's concert; and their love of sports. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WQED-FM was at Heinz Hall for a live broadcast of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra on Friday January 16, 2026. The concert featured guest conductor Dima Slobodeniouk conducting "Flouce" by Lotta Wennakoski and the Sibelius Symphony No. 2, along with Lucas and Arthur Jussen playing the Poulenc Concerto for Two Pianos. Before the concert, host Jim Cunningham spoke with Principal Contrabassoon James Rodgers who talked about the program; highlights for him for tonight; and a description of our broadcast location backstage. Jim also spoke with violist Sean Juhl who spoke about his new appointment with the Cleveland Orchestra. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man;" Beethoven's Violin Concerto with PSO Concertmaster David McCarroll as soloist, and the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 at Heinz Hall the weekend of December 5th, 2025. WQED-FM was there to broadcast the concert on Sunday December 7th live. After the concert, WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with violist Sean Juhl about their busy schedule the last week or so. Then, Jim was joined by Principal Horn William Caballero and Principal Oboe Cynthia Koledo DeAlmeida, who spoke about the trip to New York City, playing the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, their new CD, and their love of WQED-FM. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man;" Beethoven's Violin Concerto with PSO Concertmaster David McCarroll as soloist, and the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 at Heinz Hall the weekend of December 5th, 2025. WQED-FM was there to broadcast the concert on Sunday December 7th live. During intermission, WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with PSO Music Director Manfred Honeck, who spoke about the rave reviews of the orchestra's concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City earlier in the week and his plans for the holidays. Jim also spoke with soloist and PSO Concertmaster David McCarroll about the Beethoven violin concerto, and the Bach encore he played. Jim was then joined by Pittsburgh Symphony Vice-President of Artistic Planning Mary Persin with a recap of the New York City trip, and what people can look forward to with the Pittsburgh Symphony during the rest of the December. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra played Copland's "Fanfare for the Common Man;" Beethoven's Violin Concerto with PSO Concertmaster David McCarroll as soloist, and the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5 at Heinz Hall the weekend of December 5th, 2025. WQED-FM was there to broadcast the concert on Sunday December 7th live. Before the concert, WQED-FM's Jim Cunningham spoke with PSO violist Tatjana Mead Chamis and PSO Violinist Lorien Benet Hart about the recent trip to New York City, and what to expect from this afternoon's concert. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Violin prodigy Himari makes her debut with the Pittsburgh Symphony on November 28th with Bruch's Violin Concerto No. 1. She joined Jim Cunningham to talk about the Bruch, her first EP with Decca Records, and playing with the Berlin Philharmonic and the Philadelphia Orchestra.Himari began playing the violin at the age of three and by the age of six, was already performing with professional orchestras. In 2022, she became the youngest student admitted to the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where she now studies under the renowned violinist Ida Kavafian. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 Houston Symphony Music Director Juraj Valcuha returns to conduct the Richard Strauss "Ein Heldenleben," A hero's Life, which reveals the autobiography of the composer complete with his thoughts on music critics but does it end with a triumph? Not exactly.  It is a giant piece and 45 minutes of delightful music. Maestro Valcuha tells Jim Cunningham in his dressing room after rehearsal on Thursday evening that he has already given the world premiere of the "Liberty Bell" by Julia Wolfe, co-commissioned with Pittsburgh and Houston. The composer will take a bow on stage this weekend. She uses lots of bells in the augmented percussion section. Juraj Valcuha has renewed his Houston contract through 2027 and he is still getting to know the city. Rodeo is on the plan for next year and after leaving Pittsburgh, he'll conduct "A Hero's Life" at Jones Hall at Thanksgiving. He is just back from conducting the Debussy opera "Pelléas and Melisande" in Switzerland for one month working with the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande - famous for hundreds of recordings with Ernest Ansermet. He's a nature lover and he hopes he can enjoy the great outdoors a bit with many dates on his calendar. Pittsburgh is a favorite stop with his grandfather having lived here. He's visited Grandads' final resting place in Pittsburgh and looks forward to more concerts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.