https://wdav.org/program/piedmont-arts-podcast/ Tue, 05 May 2026 14:10:17 +0000 Tue, 05 May 2026 14:10:17 +0000 WDAV.org en-us © 2017 WDAV Classical Public Radio noarts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radioInterviews with artists, performers and community arts leaders.Interviews with artists, performers and community arts leaders.WDAV Classical Public Radiowdav@wdav.orgWDAV Classical Public Radio https://wdav.org/episode/alejandro-cerrudo-on-one-thousand-pieces/ https://wdav.org/episode/alejandro-cerrudo-on-one-thousand-pieces/ Mon, 04 May 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noAs America’s 250th Anniversary draws near, Charlotte Ballet will celebrate with a work that pays tribute to America. Artistic director Alejandro Cerrudo’s first full-length ballet called “One Thousand Pieces” receives its Charlotte premier in May at the Knight Theatre. It’s inspired Marc Chagall’s stained-glass creation called “America Windows.” Learn more about “One Thousand Pieces” from Cerrudo on this episode of Piedmont Arts.WDAV Classical Public RadioAs America’s 250th Anniversary draws near, Charlotte Ballet will celebrate with a work that pays tribute to America. Artistic director Alejandro Cerrudo’s first full-length ballet called “One Thousand Pieces” receives its Charlotte premier in May at the Knight Theatre. It’s inspired Marc Chagall’s stained-glass creation called “America Windows.” Learn more about “One Thousand Pieces” from Cerrudo on this episode of Piedmont Arts.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/terri-white-on-the-semiquincentennial-at-the-charlotte-museum-of-history/ https://wdav.org/episode/terri-white-on-the-semiquincentennial-at-the-charlotte-museum-of-history/ Mon, 27 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noAmerica turns 250 this year, and there are all sorts of celebrations, events, and activities happening across the country. One of them is a new immersive experience at the Charlotte Museum of History called American Revolution: The Augmented Exhibition. You’ll hear all about it on the new episode of Piedmont Arts. Plus, hear the scoop on summer arts camps for your kids, and your weekend is covered with FanFare.WDAV Classical Public RadioAmerica turns 250 this year, and there are all sorts of celebrations, events, and activities happening across the country. One of them is a new immersive experience at the Charlotte Museum of History called American Revolution: The Augmented Exhibition. You’ll hear all about it on the new episode of Piedmont Arts. Plus, hear the scoop on summer arts camps for your kids, and your weekend is covered with FanFare.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/meet-the-goodyear-arts-collective-building-community-for-artists-in-charlotte/ https://wdav.org/episode/meet-the-goodyear-arts-collective-building-community-for-artists-in-charlotte/ Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noGoodyear Arts is an artist-led nonprofit located in Camp Northend that exists to support local artists and musicians in a variety of ways. They offer gallery spaces, performance areas, and studios where artists of all types can create and share their work. On this Piedmont Arts podcast we talk with Goodyear Arts Collective members Amy Bagwell, Kadey Ballard, and Nathan Matthews about the ways the organization connects artists and fosters creativity in our community.WDAV Classical Public RadioGoodyear Arts is an artist-led nonprofit located in Camp Northend that exists to support local artists and musicians in a variety of ways. They offer gallery spaces, performance areas, and studios where artists of all types can create and share their work. On this Piedmont Arts podcast we talk with Goodyear Arts Collective members Amy Bagwell, Kadey Ballard, and Nathan Matthews about the ways the organization connects artists and fosters creativity in our community.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/david-mcgee-and-katia-zavistovski-on-the-griot-and-the-nightingale/ https://wdav.org/episode/david-mcgee-and-katia-zavistovski-on-the-griot-and-the-nightingale/ Mon, 13 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noArtist David McGee’s paintings explore the meanings we associate with images and words and the way they influence attitudes about race and history. The Bechtler Museum has added an exhibition of his work called “The Griot and The Nightingale” which brings together more than 100 of his creations. McGee and Bechtler curator Katia Zavistovski are guests on this Piedmont Arts podcast episode.WDAV Classical Public RadioArtist David McGee’s paintings explore the meanings we associate with images and words and the way they influence attitudes about race and history. The Bechtler Museum has added an exhibition of his work called “The Griot and The Nightingale” which brings together more than 100 of his creations. McGee and Bechtler curator Katia Zavistovski are guests on this Piedmont Arts podcast episode.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/jeremy-okai-davis-on-presence-of-color/ https://wdav.org/episode/jeremy-okai-davis-on-presence-of-color/ Mon, 06 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noA new exhibition at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts & Culture prompts visitors to consider the way a photograph or painting decides what “correct” looks like. In Presence of Color, Charlotte-born artist Jeremy Okai Davis reimagines the Kodak Company’s mid-century “Shirley” cards which used white skin tones to establish baselines for light and color when developing film. Davis is the guest on this Piedmont Arts podcast, and he talks about the ways he deconstructs the “Shirley” cards to create portraits of Black individuals.WDAV Classical Public RadioA new exhibition at the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts & Culture prompts visitors to consider the way a photograph or painting decides what “correct” looks like. In Presence of Color, Charlotte-born artist Jeremy Okai Davis reimagines the Kodak Company’s mid-century “Shirley” cards which used white skin tones to establish baselines for light and color when developing film. Davis is the guest on this Piedmont Arts podcast, and he talks about the ways he deconstructs the “Shirley” cards to create portraits of Black individuals.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/landis-wade-on-his-new-murder-mystery-and-the-avett-brothers-theater-revival/ https://wdav.org/episode/landis-wade-on-his-new-murder-mystery-and-the-avett-brothers-theater-revival/ Mon, 30 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noWhat happens when you take a murder mystery and wrap it in local Charlotte history? You get another thrilling novel by Landis Wade. On this episode of Piedmont Arts, you’ll hear from the trial lawyer-turned-author about his new book, Deadly Gold Rush. Then, learn about the Avett Brothers’ effort to restore and revive a historic theater in Mount Pleasant, NC. Plus some live entertainment options to put on your calendar with FanFare.WDAV Classical Public RadioWhat happens when you take a murder mystery and wrap it in local Charlotte history? You get another thrilling novel by Landis Wade. On this episode of Piedmont Arts, you’ll hear from the trial lawyer-turned-author about his new book, Deadly Gold Rush. Then, learn about the Avett Brothers’ effort to restore and revive a historic theater in Mount Pleasant, NC. Plus some live entertainment options to put on your calendar with FanFare.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/zoie-reams-on-bizets-carmen/ https://wdav.org/episode/zoie-reams-on-bizets-carmen/ Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noWhen George Bizet’s Carmen was first performed, it wasn’t well-received because of its gritty subject matter and fiercely independent female lead. Today it’s one of the most often performed of all operas. Piedmont Opera will present Bizet’s masterpiece at High Point Theatre with mezzo-soprano Zoie Reams singing the title role. On this Piedmont Arts podcast hear her talk about how she got into opera and why she finds Carmen’s character so compelling.WDAV Classical Public RadioWhen George Bizet’s Carmen was first performed, it wasn’t well-received because of its gritty subject matter and fiercely independent female lead. Today it’s one of the most often performed of all operas. Piedmont Opera will present Bizet’s masterpiece at High Point Theatre with mezzo-soprano Zoie Reams singing the title role. On this Piedmont Arts podcast hear her talk about how she got into opera and why she finds Carmen’s character so compelling.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/maya-myers-on-creating-books-for-children/ https://wdav.org/episode/maya-myers-on-creating-books-for-children/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noWhat goes into creating a children’s book? On this episode of Piedmont Arts, you’ll learn about that process from Charlotte-based author and editor Maya Myers. You’ll also hear about her new book Good Morning, Morning. Plus, Phil Vavra will tell you about some fun and engaging events to put on your calendar with FanFare.WDAV Classical Public RadioWhat goes into creating a children’s book? On this episode of Piedmont Arts, you’ll learn about that process from Charlotte-based author and editor Maya Myers. You’ll also hear about her new book Good Morning, Morning. Plus, Phil Vavra will tell you about some fun and engaging events to put on your calendar with FanFare.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/david-fisk-on-the-charlotte-symphony-2026-27-season/ https://wdav.org/episode/david-fisk-on-the-charlotte-symphony-2026-27-season/ Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noThe Charlotte Symphony Orchestra recently announced their ‘26-‘27 season which will bring big name soloists like Joshua Bell to town and feature well-loved works like Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. There are also lesser-known works and up-and-coming soloists. And don’t forget the pops, movie, family, and road show series. On this Piedmont Arts podcast episode, CEO David Fisk talks about some of the season’s highlights.WDAV Classical Public RadioThe Charlotte Symphony Orchestra recently announced their ‘26-‘27 season which will bring big name soloists like Joshua Bell to town and feature well-loved works like Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. There are also lesser-known works and up-and-coming soloists. And don’t forget the pops, movie, family, and road show series. On this Piedmont Arts podcast episode, CEO David Fisk talks about some of the season’s highlights.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/north-carolina-baroque-orchestra-and-phoenix-down-rpg-take-the-stage/ https://wdav.org/episode/north-carolina-baroque-orchestra-and-phoenix-down-rpg-take-the-stage/ Mon, 02 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noOn this episode of Piedmont Arts, you’ll learn about two exciting opportunities to hear live music. Jane Cain and David Wilson of the North Carolina Baroque Orchestra tell us all about the 2nd annual Davidson Bach Festival. And Rachel Stewart explores the intersection of classical and video game music with Charlotte wind ensemble Phoenix Down RPG, who are headlining WDAV’s next Small Batch concert.WDAV Classical Public RadioOn this episode of Piedmont Arts, you’ll learn about two exciting opportunities to hear live music. Jane Cain and David Wilson of the North Carolina Baroque Orchestra tell us all about the 2nd annual Davidson Bach Festival. And Rachel Stewart explores the intersection of classical and video game music with Charlotte wind ensemble Phoenix Down RPG, who are headlining WDAV’s next Small Batch concert.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/internationally-acclaimed-organist-alcee-chriss-iii-comes-to-charlotte/ https://wdav.org/episode/internationally-acclaimed-organist-alcee-chriss-iii-comes-to-charlotte/ Mon, 23 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noNot every organist incorporates jazz and gospel into their repertoire, but Alcee Chriss III does. He’s one of America’s most talented young organists, and he’s coming to Charlotte’s Covenant Presbyterian Church for a masterclass and recital. In this episode, learn more about Alcee Chriss and what audiences can expect from his Charlotte appearance.WDAV Classical Public RadioNot every organist incorporates jazz and gospel into their repertoire, but Alcee Chriss III does. He’s one of America’s most talented young organists, and he’s coming to Charlotte’s Covenant Presbyterian Church for a masterclass and recital. In this episode, learn more about Alcee Chriss and what audiences can expect from his Charlotte appearance.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/maestro-kwame-ryan-on-conducting-at-the-metropolitan-opera-and-his-dash-to-the-grammys/ https://wdav.org/episode/maestro-kwame-ryan-on-conducting-at-the-metropolitan-opera-and-his-dash-to-the-grammys/ Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noNow in his second season as Music Director with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Kwame Ryan can also add Grammy Award winner to his list of accomplishments. On this Piedmont Arts episode, general manager and host Frank Dominguez caught up with Maestro Ryan and they talked about the award, as well as his recent engagement conducting George Gerswin’s Porgy and Bess with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.WDAV Classical Public RadioNow in his second season as Music Director with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Kwame Ryan can also add Grammy Award winner to his list of accomplishments. On this Piedmont Arts episode, general manager and host Frank Dominguez caught up with Maestro Ryan and they talked about the award, as well as his recent engagement conducting George Gerswin’s Porgy and Bess with the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/gabriel-kahane-on-the-charlotte-symphonys-new-spotlight-series/ https://wdav.org/episode/gabriel-kahane-on-the-charlotte-symphonys-new-spotlight-series/ Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noThis year the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra launched its first ever Spotlight Series featuring a Spotlight Artist. The brainchild of music director Kwame Ryan, the series provides a deeper exploration of one artistic voice each season. The inaugural Spotlight Artist is Gabriel Kahane, a singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist whose work spans many genres. Kahane is the guest on this Piedmont Arts podcast episode where you can learn more about him and his musical collaboration with the CSO.WDAV Classical Public RadioThis year the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra launched its first ever Spotlight Series featuring a Spotlight Artist. The brainchild of music director Kwame Ryan, the series provides a deeper exploration of one artistic voice each season. The inaugural Spotlight Artist is Gabriel Kahane, a singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist whose work spans many genres. Kahane is the guest on this Piedmont Arts podcast episode where you can learn more about him and his musical collaboration with the CSO.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/saxton-rose-on-the-american-roots-institute/ https://wdav.org/episode/saxton-rose-on-the-american-roots-institute/ Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noThe University of North Carolina School of the Arts is launching a new program to preserve and advance traditional music. The American Roots Institute will highlight bluegrass, folk, blues, jazz, and gospel for School of the Arts high school and college students. With North Carolina’s rich history of roots music, UNCSA is a fitting home for this new institute. On this episode, we talk to UNCSA School of Music Dean, Saxton Rose.WDAV Classical Public RadioThe University of North Carolina School of the Arts is launching a new program to preserve and advance traditional music. The American Roots Institute will highlight bluegrass, folk, blues, jazz, and gospel for School of the Arts high school and college students. With North Carolina’s rich history of roots music, UNCSA is a fitting home for this new institute. On this episode, we talk to UNCSA School of Music Dean, Saxton Rose.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/kenney-potter-on-rachmaninoffs-vespers-and-preview-ofkings-of-the-queen-city/ https://wdav.org/episode/kenney-potter-on-rachmaninoffs-vespers-and-preview-ofkings-of-the-queen-city/ Mon, 26 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noHear from the Charlotte Master Chorale’s longtime Artistic Director Kenney Potter about what makes the vocal ensemble so special and why you’ll want to be at their upcoming performances of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Vespers. You’ll also hear about the new reality show being produced in Charlotte called “Kings of the Queen City.”WDAV Classical Public RadioHear from the Charlotte Master Chorale’s longtime Artistic Director Kenney Potter about what makes the vocal ensemble so special and why you’ll want to be at their upcoming performances of Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Vespers. You’ll also hear about the new reality show being produced in Charlotte called “Kings of the Queen City.”arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/garrett-murphy-on-bach-charlotte-winterfest/ https://wdav.org/episode/garrett-murphy-on-bach-charlotte-winterfest/ Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noYou don’t have to wait until summer for a festival celebrating the music and legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach. This year, Bach Charlotte has added their very first Bach WinterFest to the calendar. It’s a series of concerts happening in venues around the Queen City. Find out more about it by listening to a conversation with Bach Charlotte’s executive director Garrett Murphy.WDAV Classical Public RadioYou don’t have to wait until summer for a festival celebrating the music and legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach. This year, Bach Charlotte has added their very first Bach WinterFest to the calendar. It’s a series of concerts happening in venues around the Queen City. Find out more about it by listening to a conversation with Bach Charlotte’s executive director Garrett Murphy.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/opera-carolina-artists-fund-interview-with-cellist-anita-graef/ https://wdav.org/episode/opera-carolina-artists-fund-interview-with-cellist-anita-graef/ Mon, 12 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noCellist Anita Graff reflects on a life in music, from Bach to jazz, and previews her Charlotte debut. Opera Carolina director Dr. Shante Williams discusses the new Classical Artist Fund, supporting singers and the many creatives behind the scenes.WDAV Classical Public RadioCellist Anita Graff reflects on a life in music, from Bach to jazz, and previews her Charlotte debut. Opera Carolina director Dr. Shante Williams discusses the new Classical Artist Fund, supporting singers and the many creatives behind the scenes.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/steven-lacosse-on-the-metropolitan-operas-laffont-competition/ https://wdav.org/episode/steven-lacosse-on-the-metropolitan-operas-laffont-competition/ Mon, 15 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noPop singers have “American Idol” and “The Voice.” Country singers are competing on a new show called “The Road.” For up-and-coming opera talent, it’s all about the Laffont Competition. We talk with Artistic Director and Professor Steven LaCosse about the Metropolitan Opera’s annual search for the next great singers, and the North Carolina District portion of the Laffont Competition that’s coming to Charlotte in January.WDAV Classical Public RadioPop singers have “American Idol” and “The Voice.” Country singers are competing on a new show called “The Road.” For up-and-coming opera talent, it’s all about the Laffont Competition. We talk with Artistic Director and Professor Steven LaCosse about the Metropolitan Opera’s annual search for the next great singers, and the North Carolina District portion of the Laffont Competition that’s coming to Charlotte in January.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/exploring-jack-bouls-legacy-in-a-new-blowing-rock-exhibition/ https://wdav.org/episode/exploring-jack-bouls-legacy-in-a-new-blowing-rock-exhibition/ Mon, 08 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noArtist Jack Boul loved to paint the world around him: people sitting on benches, urban streetscapes, cows in a pasture, and the mountain scenery of western North Carolina. Boul's work is included in collections at the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian, and the Library of Congress as well as other private and public collections. And now there’s an exhibition of his art at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum that highlights his special connection to the Blowing Rock/Boone area. It’s called “Jack Boul: Land, City, Home.” On this Piedmont Arts podcast, hear a conversation with Jack Boul’s son David who helped organize the exhibition to help ensure his father’s legacy. "Catawba" by Jack Boul "Quartet" by Jack Boul "Atlantic Beach" by Jack Boul "Canal" by Jack Boul "Self Portrait" by Jack Boul "Artist Studio" by Jack BoulWDAV Classical Public RadioArtist Jack Boul loved to paint the world around him: people sitting on benches, urban streetscapes, cows in a pasture, and the mountain scenery of western North Carolina. Boul's work is included in collections at the National Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian, and the Library of Congress as well as other private and public collections. And now there’s an exhibition of his art at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum that highlights his special connection to the Blowing Rock/Boone area. It’s called “Jack Boul: Land, City, Home.” On this Piedmont Arts podcast, hear a conversation with Jack Boul’s son David who helped organize the exhibition to help ensure his father’s legacy. "Catawba" by Jack Boul "Quartet" by Jack Boul "Atlantic Beach" by Jack Boul "Canal" by Jack Boul "Self Portrait" by Jack Boul "Artist Studio" by Jack Boularts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/holiday-preview-your-guide-to-music-theater-and-sparkling-holiday-lights/ https://wdav.org/episode/holiday-preview-your-guide-to-music-theater-and-sparkling-holiday-lights/ Mon, 01 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noOn this Piedmont Arts podcast, Phil Vavra and Dan Drayer preview concerts, opera and dance performances, plays and musicals, as well as where to take in the big displays of festive lights across the region.WDAV Classical Public RadioOn this Piedmont Arts podcast, Phil Vavra and Dan Drayer preview concerts, opera and dance performances, plays and musicals, as well as where to take in the big displays of festive lights across the region.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/rory-d-sheriff-on-the-magic-and-legacy-of-be-a-lion/ https://wdav.org/episode/rory-d-sheriff-on-the-magic-and-legacy-of-be-a-lion/ Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noBNS Productions (Brand New Sheriff Productions) is theater company based in Charlotte that presents award-winning performances highlighting the African American experience. They'll perform Be A Lion at the Booth Playhouse, a production that has been a favorite with Charlotte audiences for years. Inspired by The Wiz, Be A Lion is the creation of award-winning playwright, producer, and director Rory D. Sheriff, who is our guest on this Piedmont Arts podcast episode.WDAV Classical Public RadioBNS Productions (Brand New Sheriff Productions) is theater company based in Charlotte that presents award-winning performances highlighting the African American experience. They'll perform Be A Lion at the Booth Playhouse, a production that has been a favorite with Charlotte audiences for years. Inspired by The Wiz, Be A Lion is the creation of award-winning playwright, producer, and director Rory D. Sheriff, who is our guest on this Piedmont Arts podcast episode.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/makayla-binter-on-charlottes-murals-plus-an-interview-with-keenan-harmon/ https://wdav.org/episode/makayla-binter-on-charlottes-murals-plus-an-interview-with-keenan-harmon/ Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noDrive around many Charlotte neighborhoods, and you’re likely to see murals. There are hundreds of them across the city bringing a vibrant quality to the urban landscape. For art lovers, they turn the city into an open-air gallery that can be enjoyed for free. On this episode, you can take a tour of some murals with Charlotte is Creative’s Makayla Binter, who is herself an artist. She shows us around Luminous Lane, a once grim alleyway between 3rd and 4th Streets in Uptown that has been transformed into a colorful uplifting space. And get to know WDAV’s new weeknight evening host Keenan Harmon a little better as he takes questions from Phil Vavra. “Arts and culture are why people don’t just move to Charlotte—they stay. It’s what turns a city into a community.”Makayla Binter By Russell Fenn / @Sofles Ali Loncar / @ahloncar Luminous Lane entrance by @treazy_treaz By @John_Hairston_Jr Pam Imhof / @theleftbrainedartist Peace By Darian Fleming / @daflemingo-and Matt Moore / @puckmcgruff Lion by @treazy_treaz Luminous Lane entrance by @treazy_treaz By Osiris Rain / @osirisrain Evening Opus with Keenan Harmon Keenan Harmon Tune in to the Evening Opus and more Classical Music with Keenan Harmon weeknights at 7 p.m. and learn more about The Nexus Jazz Group at the Stage Door Theater.WDAV Classical Public RadioDrive around many Charlotte neighborhoods, and you’re likely to see murals. There are hundreds of them across the city bringing a vibrant quality to the urban landscape. For art lovers, they turn the city into an open-air gallery that can be enjoyed for free. On this episode, you can take a tour of some murals with Charlotte is Creative’s Makayla Binter, who is herself an artist. She shows us around Luminous Lane, a once grim alleyway between 3rd and 4th Streets in Uptown that has been transformed into a colorful uplifting space. And get to know WDAV’s new weeknight evening host Keenan Harmon a little better as he takes questions from Phil Vavra. “Arts and culture are why people don’t just move to Charlotte—they stay. It’s what turns a city into a community.”Makayla Binter By Russell Fenn / @Sofles Ali Loncar / @ahloncar Luminous Lane entrance by @treazy_treaz By @John_Hairston_Jr Pam Imhof / @theleftbrainedartist Peace By Darian Fleming / @daflemingo-and Matt Moore / @puckmcgruff Lion by @treazy_treaz Luminous Lane entrance by @treazy_treaz By Osiris Rain / @osirisrain Evening Opus with Keenan Harmon Keenan Harmon Tune in to the Evening Opus and more Classical Music with Keenan Harmon weeknights at 7 p.m. and learn more about The Nexus Jazz Group at the Stage Door Theater.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/kevin-hammonds-and-tom-gabbard-on-the-magicians-table/ https://wdav.org/episode/kevin-hammonds-and-tom-gabbard-on-the-magicians-table/ Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noThe Magicians Table is making its North American debut this month at Charlotte’s new venue, Blume Studios. Created in London, it’s a show about a legendary illusionist, his loving widow, and a cast of magicians who perform at your table. It may change your idea of what a magic show can be. Artist Kevin Hammonds and Blumenthal Arts’ CEO Tom Gabbard talk about this immersive experience.WDAV Classical Public RadioThe Magicians Table is making its North American debut this month at Charlotte’s new venue, Blume Studios. Created in London, it’s a show about a legendary illusionist, his loving widow, and a cast of magicians who perform at your table. It may change your idea of what a magic show can be. Artist Kevin Hammonds and Blumenthal Arts’ CEO Tom Gabbard talk about this immersive experience.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/clint-smith-on-with-these-hands/ https://wdav.org/episode/clint-smith-on-with-these-hands/ Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noOn October 24th, Davidson College dedicated a new sculpture called “With These Hands: A Memorial to the Enslaved and Exploited” by artist Hank Willis Thomas. It acknowledges those individuals who built the college and served the institution in numerous ways but whose story has rarely been included in the college’s history. Davidson graduate Clint Smith, an award-winning poet and author, talks about the sculpture’s significance for Davidson and the larger community. We also learn about the 2025 “Mad About Modern Home Tour.”WDAV Classical Public RadioOn October 24th, Davidson College dedicated a new sculpture called “With These Hands: A Memorial to the Enslaved and Exploited” by artist Hank Willis Thomas. It acknowledges those individuals who built the college and served the institution in numerous ways but whose story has rarely been included in the college’s history. Davidson graduate Clint Smith, an award-winning poet and author, talks about the sculpture’s significance for Davidson and the larger community. We also learn about the 2025 “Mad About Modern Home Tour.”arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio https://wdav.org/episode/eastern-music-festivals-farewell-and-opera-carolinas-tribute/ https://wdav.org/episode/eastern-music-festivals-farewell-and-opera-carolinas-tribute/ Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0000 wdav@wdav.org (WDAV Classical Public Radio)noAfter 64 years, the Eastern Music Festival in Greensboro is closing. The festival, which has been an important part of the Triad and the state’s cultural life, is ending due to failed negotiations between faculty artists, staff, and the EMF Board. We get the perspectives of both faculty and staff representatives on why talks broke down. We also talk with Dr. Shanté Williams of Opera Carolina about their “Night to Remember” concert that features arias by Puccini’s heroines.WDAV Classical Public RadioAfter 64 years, the Eastern Music Festival in Greensboro is closing. The festival, which has been an important part of the Triad and the state’s cultural life, is ending due to failed negotiations between faculty artists, staff, and the EMF Board. We get the perspectives of both faculty and staff representatives on why talks broke down. We also talk with Dr. Shanté Williams of Opera Carolina about their “Night to Remember” concert that features arias by Puccini’s heroines.arts,music,wdav,wdav,classical,public,radio