Since MPR was founded in 1967, our studios have been a regular stop for the world's master musicians, composers, and conductors. Additionally, in partnership with Minnesota Orchestra and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, MPR has recorded interviews and performances with many incredible visiting musicians and leaders in the classical music world, such as Bobby McFerrin, Osmo Vänskä, and Neville Marriner, to name a few. The Archive at MPR has preserved these interviews to make them accessible to you. Enjoy this collection which includes unique conversations occasionally combined with performance highlights and excerpts, as well as reports on the local classical scene.
Please note: Most content related to this topic that is contemporary or created after 2005 can be found on our main content pages of YourClassical MPR and MPR News
June 12, 2019 - On this episode of New Classical Tracks, Classical Host Julie Amacher talks with Israeli violinist Itamar Zorman. The two discuss the release of “Evocation.” Two works recorded here for the first time, by Israeli composer Paul Ben-Haim, provide the framework for this release. They also demonstrate the evolution of Ben-Haim’s composing style.
July 31, 2019 - On this episode of New Classical Tracks, Classical Host Julie Amacher talks with classical pianist Anna Shelest. The two discuss the release of “Donna Voce,” which in Italian, means 'woman's voice.' Shelest expresses a newfound freedom in playing serious work by a woman composer.
July 28, 2022 - The Minnesota Orchestra Thursday named Danish conductor Thomas Sondergard as its 11th music director. All Things Considered’s Tom Crann takes a moment to chat with Sondergard about his upcoming new role. Topics of interview include Minnesota Orchestra’s future model and diversity within the orchestra and performances.