NPR: From the Top Podcast

Let's Get Together: Rachmaninoff to Barber2024/04/08
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How does ensemble size and instrumentation shape the listening experience? We hear from a 14-year-old violinist who feels passionately about music-making, meet a teen pianist who takes on Rachmaninoff, and hear Peter play Barber with a young cellist who speaks about the importance of a local music program in his life.

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Sonatas! Saint Saëns and Frank2024/04/01
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We continue our exploration of the sonata with two teens from Southern California. We hear a bassoonist performing Saint Saëns and a pianist performing an exciting work by American composer Gabriela Lena Frank. Finally, we are treated to a flashback finale of an outstanding flutist playing Dorff's Salmon Lake.

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Sonatas! Bach, Beethoven, Brahms2024/03/25
We hear a range of sonatas including Bach performed on marimba, a late Beethoven work for cello and piano, and a Brahms viola sonata. Performed by teens from Arizona and Texas!

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The Swan & More from Michigan: Part II2024/03/18
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We meet a violist with a love for Formula One racing who gives an evocative performance of Schumann. We hear a conversation between a teen clarinetist and his mentor, the principal clarinetist of the Minnesota Orchestra, who share much in common including leaving their homes in Costa Rica to study at Interlochen Arts Academy.

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The Swan & More from Michigan: Part I2024/03/11
A talented 12-year-old cellist performs The Swan by Saint-Saëns, a flutist with a passion for marine biology plays a dreamy Fantasie by Hüe, and the winner of Interlochen Arts Academy's Concerto Competition performs a difficult but rewarding work by Ysaÿe.

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Celebrating Musicians with Disabilities: Encore2024/03/04
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18-year-old violinist and From the Top alum Julia LaGrand co-hosts this special episode dedicated to celebrating the stories and performances of disabled and neurodivergent musicians. Julia, who is blind, also interviews special guest Itzhak Perlman. We meet a 16-year-old double bassist who began studying music when spina bifida made it difficult to keep up with youth sports leagues, a 14-year-old pianist who uses Braille scores to learn his repertoire, a 26-year-old cellist who believes his musical skills are sharpened by his autism, and a 16-year-old pianist with Escobar Syndrome who shares her journey to millions on social media. They perform works by Grieg, Liszt, and more.

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Chopin, Guitar Quartet & More from Minnesota: Part II2024/02/26
We hear from a teenage guitar quartet playing a lively Brazilian piece, an oboist playing a new work by composer Reena Esmail, and a violinist who imagines herself in Brahms' world when she performs.

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Chopin, Guitar Quartet & More from Minnesota: Part I2024/02/19
We meet a 14-year-old pianist playing a Chopin Scherzo, a classical cellist who also plays rock covers, and a young trumpeter who gives insight into the physicality of playing his instrument.

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Black History Month Special Encore2024/02/12
In recognition of Black History Month, this highlight program celebrates outstanding performances by Black musicians on From the Top through the years. Hosted by Peter Dugan and David Norville, an alumnus, oboist, and former Assistant Producer at From the Top.

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A Celebration of Sphinx Encore2024/02/05
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An encore episode dedicated to the 25th Anniversary of the Sphinx Organization.We feature musical excerpts from a live performance by critically-acclaimed chamber orchestra, the Sphinx Virtuosi. We hear from musicians and educators whose lives have been changed by Sphinx and explore the pivotal role it has played in expanding diversity in the arts.

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Mozart, Kreisler, and Schubert: Part II2024/01/29
We meet a percussionist from the famous LaGuardia High School for the Performing Arts who gives a tour of the marimba to Peter Dugan, a 13-year-old cellist who loves both ballet and music, and a pianist who relates with the emotions of Schubert.

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Mozart, Kreisler, and Schubert: Part I2024/01/22
A teen quartet plays Mozart, a 15-year-old flutist shares why her instrument is a dependable friend, and a violinist plays a Kreisler arrangement and draws connections between science and art.

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Cassadó, Grant Still, & a Unique Trio: Part II2024/01/15
A 17-year-old pianist plays the work of a lesser-known Russian romantic pianist/composer and describes his interest in robotics. A violinist with a passion for musical suites performs a contemporary work. An exciting trio comprised of bass, flute, and bassoon play Piazzola.

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Cassadó, Grant Still, & a Unique Trio: Part I2024/01/08
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A 17-year-old violinist shares how he deals with performance anxiety and plays William Grant Still. A teen guitarist speaks of his family connection with Colombia and the vibrant piece that was written for him to perform. A 12-year-old cellist gives an exuberant performance of Cassadó's Requiebros and shares how she sneaks in some time for bluegrass.

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50 Years of Walnut Hill2023/12/11
We're meeting some phenomenal musicians from the Walnut Hill School for the Arts in Natick, Massachusetts. The school is celebrating 50 years as an arts high school and sharing their talented teens with Guest Host Orli Shaham. Enjoy performances of Ravel, Rachmaninoff, Schubert, and more.

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Sensational Youth Chamber Music with Fischoff2023/11/27
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We're celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. Over the years, From the Top has featured the sensational winning youth ensembles of this renowned competition, and we're going to revisit some of these incredible performances. We'll also reveal the most recent grand prize winners who have yet to be featured on From the Top.

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Dvořák, Winds, & a Young Composer2023/11/06
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A young violinist explores the connection between powerlifting and music. A teen bassoonist plays a stirring piece, a trombonist shows off the range of his instrument and shares his passion for nutrition. And a young composer presents their exciting work for an eclectic grouping of instruments!

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Meet the Winners: Behind the Scenes at the Cliburn, Part II2023/10/16
We're back at the 2023 Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition and Festival. You'll hear more incredible performances, including some with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and meet semi-finalists and winners of the competition.

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Behind the Scenes at the Cliburn, Part I2023/10/09
We're backstage at the 2023 Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition and Festival. Hear brilliant performances from the competitors and learn more about this outstanding group of young pianists gathered from around the world.

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Bach, Bassoon & John Williams2023/09/25
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A teen guitarist from Colorado plays a beautiful work by Bach, a cellist plays an emotional Elegy by John Williams, and a pianist performs a piece that draws from the worlds of classical and jazz. We'll also hear from a teenage bassoonist who shares what it's like living with neurodivergence and meet a young clarinetist who left his home in Peru to pursue music in the U.S.

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Euphonium Fanatic, Rachmaninoff, & More2023/09/04
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We hear Clara Schumann performed on clarinet, a ferocious performance of Rachmaninoff, and a moving new cello work inspired by the pandemic. We also meet an 18-year-old who loves the euphonium so much that he's determined to make it a household name and a young woman who is making an impression on the double bass world.

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Four Hands Piano & Atlanta Music Project2023/06/19
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Clarinetist Alex Laing joins Peter Dugan at the Atlanta Music Project for a program featuring musicians from Georgia! We hear the fantastic Atlanta Music Project Senior Youth Choir performing a Spiritual. A flutist shares her love for Eastern European Folk music, a percussionist performs Sibelius on marimba, and Peter collaborates on a gorgeous four handed Ravel with an alum.

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Magic of the Masters2023/05/29
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We're treated to the magical music of Classical masters Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Liszt, and Kreisler. Plus, an 18-year-old soprano finds inspiration in the history of the first African American Opera House in the United States in her hometown of Pittsburgh. And two teens tell us what it's been like to leave their home countries to study music in New York and Los Angeles.

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Classical Guitar, Sax Quartet, & More2023/05/08
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We meet an award-winning saxophone quartet from Texas. A teen flutist who is also a talented figure skater performs Faure. An impressive 16-year-old performs a piece by a guitarist/composer who inspires him, and a violinist from Hong Kong studying in Los Angeles tells us about how a letter from a stranger impacted his life.

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Remarkable Teen Musicians & Iconic Arts Leader Deborah Borda2023/04/24
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New York Philharmonic President and CEO Deborah Borda joins Peter Dugan as co-host and shares insights into her iconic career at the helm of the country's leading orchestras. She speaks with an inspiring 16-year-old violist who is an emerging leader in her own right. We also meet an articulate young composer who wants her music to bring people joy and healing, a teen clarinetist who has traveled the world with his musical parents, and a pianist with a passion for acting. They give incredible performances of Prokofiev, Enescu, Kovács, and more.

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Chopin, Barber & Bach on Mandolin2023/04/10
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We meet young musicians from all over the country, from South Carolina to California. A 17-year-old cellist fulfills a childhood dream to be on From the Top and kicks off the program with a gorgeous Beethoven piece. We also hear a beautiful Chopin Nocturne, a Barber Sonata played by a teen flutist, and a young mandolin player shows off her gorgeous new instrument with a performance of Bach.

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Celebrating Musicians with Disabilities2023/03/27
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18-year-old violinist and From the Top alum Julia LaGrand co-hosts this special episode dedicated to celebrating the stories and performances of disabled and neurodivergent musicians. Julia, who is blind, also interviews special guest Itzhak Perlman. We meet a 15-year-old double bassist who began studying music when spina bifida made it difficult to keep up with youth sports leagues, a 14-year-old pianist who uses Braille scores to learn his repertoire, a 26-year-old cellist who believes his musical skills are sharpened by his autism, and a 16-year-old pianist with Escobar Syndrome who shares her journey to millions on social media. They perform works by Grieg, Liszt, and more.

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Terrific Trumpeter, Award-Winning Trio, & More2023/03/06
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This week features young musicians studying at the Colburn School in LA. They range from a 14-year-old cellist with a mature performance of Beethoven to the winners of a major chamber music competition whose secret to success just might be their musical handshake. We also hear from an incredible trumpeter, a globe-trotting teen violinist, and a 15-year-old pianist performing Mendelssohn.

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Brahms, Wieniawski, and a Young Pianist2023/02/13
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We hear the first work Brahms wrote for a solo instrument and a stunning Wieniawski Polonaise played by a 13-year-old violinist. We also meet a teenage baritone who has been drawn to community activism since childhood, a guitarist who plays an arrangement of Dizzy Gillespie's Night in Tunisia, and a young pianist who shares a special tip she got from piano superstar Lang Lang... play like a grandma!

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Black History Month Special Encore2023/02/06
In recognition of Black History Month, this highlight program celebrates outstanding performances by Black musicians on From the Top through the years. Hosted by Peter Dugan and David Norville, an alumnus, oboist, and former Assistant Producer at From the Top.

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Beethoven, Rocket Science, & Coltrane2023/01/30
A pianist speaks of his passion for rocket science and his work with NASA, a talented teen violinist plays Beethoven and shares how an accident transformed his musicianship, a young composer shares a piece inspired by the loss of a loved one, and a versatile saxophonist plays Coltrane.

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Schumann, Haydn, and a Joyful Gospel Choir2023/01/09
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Violinist Charles Yang returns as co-host. We meet a bubbly teen violinist, a pianist with a mission to connect with audiences, and a cellist who opens up about mental health. The Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir sing us out with a performance that will have you on your feet and smiling!

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Kreisler, Film Scores & More2022/12/12
We meet a teenage pianist with an affinity for horror movie scores, a percussionist who adapts Debussy for marimba, a talented violinist who likes to read books upside down, and an outstanding trio from Utah play Café Music. They all answer the question — why classical music?

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Ravel Quartet & Sibling Dynamics2022/11/28
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Guest Host Orli Shaham finds common ground with a pair of siblings who remind her of growing up with her brother Gil. A lively quartet from Chicago play Ravel. A teen soprano speaks about representation in classical music and connecting with a composer who shares her heritage. A talented young pianist talks about having pianist parents.

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Incredible String Players Shine at the Klein2022/11/07
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We'll hear the adrenaline filled performances taking place at the 37th Annual Irving M. Klein International String Competition, meet the players, hear from the jury, and of course, learn who wins. Violinist Tessa Lark and pianist Peter Dugan co-host this portrait of one of our country's top competitions for young players.

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11-Year-Old Pianist, Self-Directed Flutist & More2022/10/31
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Pianist Orli Shaham guest hosts. We meet a sensational 11-year-old pianist, a self-directed flutist who describes the mouthwatering food he finds in his hometown, a violinist who shares a moving piece inspired by the Holocaust, a young harpist who explores her creativity on her own Youtube Channel, and a thoughtful teenage violinist with a multicultural background.

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Sibling Soloists, Fischoff Champions, & More2022/10/17
Brothers from Chicago talk Formula One racing and share performances of Ysaÿe and Kovács, an award-winning chamber group from San Francisco plays a fiery Spanish trio, and a teen violinist talks about his interest in neuroscience and performs Mozart.

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Celebration of Sphinx2022/10/03
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This special episode is dedicated to the 25th Anniversary of the Sphinx Organization. Featuring musical excerpts from a live performance by critically-acclaimed chamber orchestra, the Sphinx Virtuosi, and stories told by the musicians, leaders, and educators whose lives have been changed by Sphinx. It also explores the pivotal role Sphinx has played in expanding diversity in the arts.

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Liszt, Strauss & A Fake Horror Movie About Music Camp2022/09/13
In honor of long-time From the Top announcer Joanne Robinson, this program features some of Robinson's superb comedic contributions to From the Top skits and humor segments. It also features performances by young performers personally chosen by Joanne Robinson for their power and joy.

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Trombone Siblings, Teenage Composer, & More2022/09/05
A moving and sensitive performance of the music of Dvorak performed by a teenage cellist from Chicago, a young violinist from Washington, D.C. who loves to contemplate dark matter when he's not practicing the music of Bach, a teenage trombone quartet made up of two sets of siblings and more.

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Schumann, Rachmaninoff & A Reimagined Clarinet Concerto2022/06/27
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The young artists on this week's show bring a range of musical choices to the program, including a Nocturne, a romance, and a piece that chronicles the African diaspora. We also meet a piano duo who act a bit like the odd couple, but they perform with beautiful unity. Clarinetist Alex Laing co-hosts and performs Weber with Host Peter Dugan.

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Juneteenth Special2022/06/13
Special guest Kevin Olusola co-hosts this commemoration of Juneteenth featuring outstanding young Black musicians performing works by Florence Price, Coleridge-Taylor, Sam Cooke and more.

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Florence Price, Jessie Montgomery, & an Award-Winning Sax Quartet2022/05/30
A tenor from coastal Maine who helps out with his Dad's lobster fishing business, a talented teenage violinist who got his start following YouTube tutorials, an award-winning teenage sax quartet, and a pianist who is passionate about music history all share their music on this week's episode.

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Fiery Double Bass, Exciting Chamber Music, & More2022/05/09
Genre-bending violinist Charles Yang returns as co-host, collaborating with some incredible teen musicians from Texas. And don't miss the outstanding double-bassist who gives a fiery performance.

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A Paganini Caprice on the Guitar2022/05/02
This FTT Mini features guitarist Jiyeon Kim who appeared on From the Top back in 2011. Check out how she blew us away with her virtuosic performance of Paganini's Caprice No. 24 on the guitar.

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Debussy and Childhood Revenge2022/04/25
This FTT Mini celebrates pianist Jennifer Tu's appearance on our program back in 2010. She performs Claude Debussy's L'Isle Joyeuse and tells a funny story of how a desire for revenge first motivated her to begin in music.

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Carmen Fantasy, Chopin Polonaise, & More2022/04/18
A 14-year-old violinist plays the wonderful Carmen Fantasy, a teen cellist plays an exciting Chopin Polonaise, a pianist recalls a childhood fear of Mickey Mouse, a violist shows off her talent for songwriting, and an inspiring teenage composer shares a new work.

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Sensational Percussion Ensemble2022/04/11
FTT Alum, Marcelina Suchocka went on to become a founding member of Excelsis Percussion Ensemble, a group of amazing women percussionists. They tel their story and then perform "Threads" by Paul Lansky.

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A teenage organist, Bach and a spooky cathedral2022/04/04
Back in 2004, the brilliant young organist, Keenan Boswell performed a movement of the Trio Sonata No. 1 in E Flat by J.S. Bach. In this FTT Mini, we revisit that and hear his funny story about being spooked in a cathedral at night.

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Rodgers & Hammerstein, Bach, & More2022/03/28
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A teenage mezzo soprano sings from Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Oklahoma" and shares stories about her Hawaiian background. We also meet a fantastic 13-year-old pianist who performs Chopin, a violist who aims to become tri-lingual social venture capitalist, and two young violinists tackle Bach and Wieniawski.

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From the Top
https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510026/from-the-topNPR's From the Top showcases the music, stories, and unique humor of America's best young classical musicians.

	Search Podcast Editors' Lists Featured Podcasts Amerika Günleri Barış Özcan ile 111 Hz Besitos para las plantas Disciplinas Alternativas Eternity Metal Podcast Extraordinary English Podcast Sesli Kitap (Nisan Kumru) Real Talk JavaScript CodeNewbie React Podcast ShopTalk » Podcast Feed All Podcasts Recently Updated
NPR: From the Top Podcast Let's Get Together: Rachmaninoff to Barber2024/04/08 Info (Show/Hide) How does ensemble size and instrumentation shape the listening experience? We hear from a 14-year-old violinist who feels passionately about music-making, meet a teen pianist who takes on Rachmaninoff, and hear Peter play Barber with a young cellist who speaks about the importance of a local music program in his life. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Sonatas! Saint Saëns and Frank2024/04/01 Info (Show/Hide) We continue our exploration of the sonata with two teens from Southern California. We hear a bassoonist performing Saint Saëns and a pianist performing an exciting work by American composer Gabriela Lena Frank. Finally, we are treated to a flashback finale of an outstanding flutist playing Dorff's Salmon Lake. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Sonatas! Bach, Beethoven, Brahms2024/03/25 We hear a range of sonatas including Bach performed on marimba, a late Beethoven work for cello and piano, and a Brahms viola sonata. Performed by teens from Arizona and Texas! Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy The Swan & More from Michigan: Part II2024/03/18 Info (Show/Hide) We meet a violist with a love for Formula One racing who gives an evocative performance of Schumann. We hear a conversation between a teen clarinetist and his mentor, the principal clarinetist of the Minnesota Orchestra, who share much in common including leaving their homes in Costa Rica to study at Interlochen Arts Academy. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy The Swan & More from Michigan: Part I2024/03/11 A talented 12-year-old cellist performs The Swan by Saint-Saëns, a flutist with a passion for marine biology plays a dreamy Fantasie by Hüe, and the winner of Interlochen Arts Academy's Concerto Competition performs a difficult but rewarding work by Ysaÿe. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Celebrating Musicians with Disabilities: Encore2024/03/04 Info (Show/Hide) 18-year-old violinist and From the Top alum Julia LaGrand co-hosts this special episode dedicated to celebrating the stories and performances of disabled and neurodivergent musicians. Julia, who is blind, also interviews special guest Itzhak Perlman. We meet a 16-year-old double bassist who began studying music when spina bifida made it difficult to keep up with youth sports leagues, a 14-year-old pianist who uses Braille scores to learn his repertoire, a 26-year-old cellist who believes his musical skills are sharpened by his autism, and a 16-year-old pianist with Escobar Syndrome who shares her journey to millions on social media. They perform works by Grieg, Liszt, and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Chopin, Guitar Quartet & More from Minnesota: Part II2024/02/26 We hear from a teenage guitar quartet playing a lively Brazilian piece, an oboist playing a new work by composer Reena Esmail, and a violinist who imagines herself in Brahms' world when she performs. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Chopin, Guitar Quartet & More from Minnesota: Part I2024/02/19 We meet a 14-year-old pianist playing a Chopin Scherzo, a classical cellist who also plays rock covers, and a young trumpeter who gives insight into the physicality of playing his instrument. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Black History Month Special Encore2024/02/12 In recognition of Black History Month, this highlight program celebrates outstanding performances by Black musicians on From the Top through the years. Hosted by Peter Dugan and David Norville, an alumnus, oboist, and former Assistant Producer at From the Top. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy A Celebration of Sphinx Encore2024/02/05 Info (Show/Hide) An encore episode dedicated to the 25th Anniversary of the Sphinx Organization.We feature musical excerpts from a live performance by critically-acclaimed chamber orchestra, the Sphinx Virtuosi. We hear from musicians and educators whose lives have been changed by Sphinx and explore the pivotal role it has played in expanding diversity in the arts. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Mozart, Kreisler, and Schubert: Part II2024/01/29 We meet a percussionist from the famous LaGuardia High School for the Performing Arts who gives a tour of the marimba to Peter Dugan, a 13-year-old cellist who loves both ballet and music, and a pianist who relates with the emotions of Schubert. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Mozart, Kreisler, and Schubert: Part I2024/01/22 A teen quartet plays Mozart, a 15-year-old flutist shares why her instrument is a dependable friend, and a violinist plays a Kreisler arrangement and draws connections between science and art. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Cassadó, Grant Still, & a Unique Trio: Part II2024/01/15 A 17-year-old pianist plays the work of a lesser-known Russian romantic pianist/composer and describes his interest in robotics. A violinist with a passion for musical suites performs a contemporary work. An exciting trio comprised of bass, flute, and bassoon play Piazzola. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Cassadó, Grant Still, & a Unique Trio: Part I2024/01/08 Info (Show/Hide) A 17-year-old violinist shares how he deals with performance anxiety and plays William Grant Still. A teen guitarist speaks of his family connection with Colombia and the vibrant piece that was written for him to perform. A 12-year-old cellist gives an exuberant performance of Cassadó's Requiebros and shares how she sneaks in some time for bluegrass. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy 50 Years of Walnut Hill2023/12/11 We're meeting some phenomenal musicians from the Walnut Hill School for the Arts in Natick, Massachusetts. The school is celebrating 50 years as an arts high school and sharing their talented teens with Guest Host Orli Shaham. Enjoy performances of Ravel, Rachmaninoff, Schubert, and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Sensational Youth Chamber Music with Fischoff2023/11/27 Info (Show/Hide) We're celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. Over the years, From the Top has featured the sensational winning youth ensembles of this renowned competition, and we're going to revisit some of these incredible performances. We'll also reveal the most recent grand prize winners who have yet to be featured on From the Top. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Dvořák, Winds, & a Young Composer2023/11/06 Info (Show/Hide) A young violinist explores the connection between powerlifting and music. A teen bassoonist plays a stirring piece, a trombonist shows off the range of his instrument and shares his passion for nutrition. And a young composer presents their exciting work for an eclectic grouping of instruments! Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Meet the Winners: Behind the Scenes at the Cliburn, Part II2023/10/16 We're back at the 2023 Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition and Festival. You'll hear more incredible performances, including some with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, and meet semi-finalists and winners of the competition. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Behind the Scenes at the Cliburn, Part I2023/10/09 We're backstage at the 2023 Cliburn International Junior Piano Competition and Festival. Hear brilliant performances from the competitors and learn more about this outstanding group of young pianists gathered from around the world. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Bach, Bassoon & John Williams2023/09/25 Info (Show/Hide) A teen guitarist from Colorado plays a beautiful work by Bach, a cellist plays an emotional Elegy by John Williams, and a pianist performs a piece that draws from the worlds of classical and jazz. We'll also hear from a teenage bassoonist who shares what it's like living with neurodivergence and meet a young clarinetist who left his home in Peru to pursue music in the U.S. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Euphonium Fanatic, Rachmaninoff, & More2023/09/04 Info (Show/Hide) We hear Clara Schumann performed on clarinet, a ferocious performance of Rachmaninoff, and a moving new cello work inspired by the pandemic. We also meet an 18-year-old who loves the euphonium so much that he's determined to make it a household name and a young woman who is making an impression on the double bass world. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Four Hands Piano & Atlanta Music Project2023/06/19 Info (Show/Hide) Clarinetist Alex Laing joins Peter Dugan at the Atlanta Music Project for a program featuring musicians from Georgia! We hear the fantastic Atlanta Music Project Senior Youth Choir performing a Spiritual. A flutist shares her love for Eastern European Folk music, a percussionist performs Sibelius on marimba, and Peter collaborates on a gorgeous four handed Ravel with an alum. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Magic of the Masters2023/05/29 Info (Show/Hide) We're treated to the magical music of Classical masters Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Liszt, and Kreisler. Plus, an 18-year-old soprano finds inspiration in the history of the first African American Opera House in the United States in her hometown of Pittsburgh. And two teens tell us what it's been like to leave their home countries to study music in New York and Los Angeles. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Classical Guitar, Sax Quartet, & More2023/05/08 Info (Show/Hide) We meet an award-winning saxophone quartet from Texas. A teen flutist who is also a talented figure skater performs Faure. An impressive 16-year-old performs a piece by a guitarist/composer who inspires him, and a violinist from Hong Kong studying in Los Angeles tells us about how a letter from a stranger impacted his life. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Remarkable Teen Musicians & Iconic Arts Leader Deborah Borda2023/04/24 Info (Show/Hide) New York Philharmonic President and CEO Deborah Borda joins Peter Dugan as co-host and shares insights into her iconic career at the helm of the country's leading orchestras. She speaks with an inspiring 16-year-old violist who is an emerging leader in her own right. We also meet an articulate young composer who wants her music to bring people joy and healing, a teen clarinetist who has traveled the world with his musical parents, and a pianist with a passion for acting. They give incredible performances of Prokofiev, Enescu, Kovács, and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Chopin, Barber & Bach on Mandolin2023/04/10 Info (Show/Hide) We meet young musicians from all over the country, from South Carolina to California. A 17-year-old cellist fulfills a childhood dream to be on From the Top and kicks off the program with a gorgeous Beethoven piece. We also hear a beautiful Chopin Nocturne, a Barber Sonata played by a teen flutist, and a young mandolin player shows off her gorgeous new instrument with a performance of Bach. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Celebrating Musicians with Disabilities2023/03/27 Info (Show/Hide) 18-year-old violinist and From the Top alum Julia LaGrand co-hosts this special episode dedicated to celebrating the stories and performances of disabled and neurodivergent musicians. Julia, who is blind, also interviews special guest Itzhak Perlman. We meet a 15-year-old double bassist who began studying music when spina bifida made it difficult to keep up with youth sports leagues, a 14-year-old pianist who uses Braille scores to learn his repertoire, a 26-year-old cellist who believes his musical skills are sharpened by his autism, and a 16-year-old pianist with Escobar Syndrome who shares her journey to millions on social media. They perform works by Grieg, Liszt, and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Terrific Trumpeter, Award-Winning Trio, & More2023/03/06 Info (Show/Hide) This week features young musicians studying at the Colburn School in LA. They range from a 14-year-old cellist with a mature performance of Beethoven to the winners of a major chamber music competition whose secret to success just might be their musical handshake. We also hear from an incredible trumpeter, a globe-trotting teen violinist, and a 15-year-old pianist performing Mendelssohn. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Brahms, Wieniawski, and a Young Pianist2023/02/13 Info (Show/Hide) We hear the first work Brahms wrote for a solo instrument and a stunning Wieniawski Polonaise played by a 13-year-old violinist. We also meet a teenage baritone who has been drawn to community activism since childhood, a guitarist who plays an arrangement of Dizzy Gillespie's Night in Tunisia, and a young pianist who shares a special tip she got from piano superstar Lang Lang... play like a grandma! Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Black History Month Special Encore2023/02/06 In recognition of Black History Month, this highlight program celebrates outstanding performances by Black musicians on From the Top through the years. Hosted by Peter Dugan and David Norville, an alumnus, oboist, and former Assistant Producer at From the Top. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Beethoven, Rocket Science, & Coltrane2023/01/30 A pianist speaks of his passion for rocket science and his work with NASA, a talented teen violinist plays Beethoven and shares how an accident transformed his musicianship, a young composer shares a piece inspired by the loss of a loved one, and a versatile saxophonist plays Coltrane. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Schumann, Haydn, and a Joyful Gospel Choir2023/01/09 Info (Show/Hide) Violinist Charles Yang returns as co-host. We meet a bubbly teen violinist, a pianist with a mission to connect with audiences, and a cellist who opens up about mental health. The Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir sing us out with a performance that will have you on your feet and smiling! Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Kreisler, Film Scores & More2022/12/12 We meet a teenage pianist with an affinity for horror movie scores, a percussionist who adapts Debussy for marimba, a talented violinist who likes to read books upside down, and an outstanding trio from Utah play Café Music. They all answer the question — why classical music? Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Ravel Quartet & Sibling Dynamics2022/11/28 Info (Show/Hide) Guest Host Orli Shaham finds common ground with a pair of siblings who remind her of growing up with her brother Gil. A lively quartet from Chicago play Ravel. A teen soprano speaks about representation in classical music and connecting with a composer who shares her heritage. A talented young pianist talks about having pianist parents. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Incredible String Players Shine at the Klein2022/11/07 Info (Show/Hide) We'll hear the adrenaline filled performances taking place at the 37th Annual Irving M. Klein International String Competition, meet the players, hear from the jury, and of course, learn who wins. Violinist Tessa Lark and pianist Peter Dugan co-host this portrait of one of our country's top competitions for young players. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy 11-Year-Old Pianist, Self-Directed Flutist & More2022/10/31 Info (Show/Hide) Pianist Orli Shaham guest hosts. We meet a sensational 11-year-old pianist, a self-directed flutist who describes the mouthwatering food he finds in his hometown, a violinist who shares a moving piece inspired by the Holocaust, a young harpist who explores her creativity on her own Youtube Channel, and a thoughtful teenage violinist with a multicultural background. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Sibling Soloists, Fischoff Champions, & More2022/10/17 Brothers from Chicago talk Formula One racing and share performances of Ysaÿe and Kovács, an award-winning chamber group from San Francisco plays a fiery Spanish trio, and a teen violinist talks about his interest in neuroscience and performs Mozart. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Celebration of Sphinx2022/10/03 Info (Show/Hide) This special episode is dedicated to the 25th Anniversary of the Sphinx Organization. Featuring musical excerpts from a live performance by critically-acclaimed chamber orchestra, the Sphinx Virtuosi, and stories told by the musicians, leaders, and educators whose lives have been changed by Sphinx. It also explores the pivotal role Sphinx has played in expanding diversity in the arts. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Liszt, Strauss & A Fake Horror Movie About Music Camp2022/09/13 In honor of long-time From the Top announcer Joanne Robinson, this program features some of Robinson's superb comedic contributions to From the Top skits and humor segments. It also features performances by young performers personally chosen by Joanne Robinson for their power and joy. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Trombone Siblings, Teenage Composer, & More2022/09/05 A moving and sensitive performance of the music of Dvorak performed by a teenage cellist from Chicago, a young violinist from Washington, D.C. who loves to contemplate dark matter when he's not practicing the music of Bach, a teenage trombone quartet made up of two sets of siblings and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Schumann, Rachmaninoff & A Reimagined Clarinet Concerto2022/06/27 Info (Show/Hide) The young artists on this week's show bring a range of musical choices to the program, including a Nocturne, a romance, and a piece that chronicles the African diaspora. We also meet a piano duo who act a bit like the odd couple, but they perform with beautiful unity. Clarinetist Alex Laing co-hosts and performs Weber with Host Peter Dugan. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Juneteenth Special2022/06/13 Special guest Kevin Olusola co-hosts this commemoration of Juneteenth featuring outstanding young Black musicians performing works by Florence Price, Coleridge-Taylor, Sam Cooke and more. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Florence Price, Jessie Montgomery, & an Award-Winning Sax Quartet2022/05/30 A tenor from coastal Maine who helps out with his Dad's lobster fishing business, a talented teenage violinist who got his start following YouTube tutorials, an award-winning teenage sax quartet, and a pianist who is passionate about music history all share their music on this week's episode. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Fiery Double Bass, Exciting Chamber Music, & More2022/05/09 Genre-bending violinist Charles Yang returns as co-host, collaborating with some incredible teen musicians from Texas. And don't miss the outstanding double-bassist who gives a fiery performance. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy A Paganini Caprice on the Guitar2022/05/02 This FTT Mini features guitarist Jiyeon Kim who appeared on From the Top back in 2011. Check out how she blew us away with her virtuosic performance of Paganini's Caprice No. 24 on the guitar. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Debussy and Childhood Revenge2022/04/25 This FTT Mini celebrates pianist Jennifer Tu's appearance on our program back in 2010. She performs Claude Debussy's L'Isle Joyeuse and tells a funny story of how a desire for revenge first motivated her to begin in music. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Carmen Fantasy, Chopin Polonaise, & More2022/04/18 A 14-year-old violinist plays the wonderful Carmen Fantasy, a teen cellist plays an exciting Chopin Polonaise, a pianist recalls a childhood fear of Mickey Mouse, a violist shows off her talent for songwriting, and an inspiring teenage composer shares a new work. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Sensational Percussion Ensemble2022/04/11 FTT Alum, Marcelina Suchocka went on to become a founding member of Excelsis Percussion Ensemble, a group of amazing women percussionists. They tel their story and then perform "Threads" by Paul Lansky. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy A teenage organist, Bach and a spooky cathedral2022/04/04 Back in 2004, the brilliant young organist, Keenan Boswell performed a movement of the Trio Sonata No. 1 in E Flat by J.S. Bach. In this FTT Mini, we revisit that and hear his funny story about being spooked in a cathedral at night. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy Rodgers & Hammerstein, Bach, & More2022/03/28 Info (Show/Hide) A teenage mezzo soprano sings from Rodgers and Hammerstein's "Oklahoma" and shares stories about her Hawaiian background. We also meet a fantastic 13-year-old pianist who performs Chopin, a violist who aims to become tri-lingual social venture capitalist, and two young violinists tackle Bach and Wieniawski. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices NPR Privacy Policy From the Top https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510026/from-the-topNPR's From the Top showcases the music, stories, and unique humor of America's best young classical musicians.

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