<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"><channel><title>CapRadio: Classical Blog RSS</title><image><url>https://capradio.org/images/logo/CapRadio_logo_STACKED_RGB_1400SQ.jpg</url><title>CapRadio: Classical Blog RSS</title><link>https://www.capradio.org</link></image><link>https://www.capradio.org/</link><description></description><itunes:summary></itunes:summary><itunes:keywords></itunes:keywords><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/images/logo/CapRadio_logo_STACKED_RGB_1400SQ.jpg"></itunes:image><itunes:category/><pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 23:49:00 GMT</pubDate><language>en-US</language><copyright>Copyright 2026, CapRadio</copyright><generator>CPR RSS Generator 2.0</generator><ttl>120</ttl><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:author>CapRadio</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle></itunes:subtitle><itunes:owner><itunes:email>webmaster@capradio.org</itunes:email><itunes:name>CapRadio</itunes:name></itunes:owner><itunes:block>Yes</itunes:block><item><title>Veteran California Conductor Finally Makes it to Abbey Road Studios in London</title><description>Conductor Tom Ruscica has recorded many albums with his university ensembles. But the most recent release is different- this time they recorded at London's legendary Abbey Road Studios. 
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Conductor Tom Ruscica has been working in music for decades, specifically at the collegiate level. He's released many albums with his university ensembles, recorded at lots of wonderful places- like Skywalker and Sony for example. The most recent release-Transcendence- is special though. This time Dr. Ruscica and his ensemble Jessup Music made it all the way to the legendary Abbey Road Studios in London to record. In this feature we sample many selections from this album, and we also enjoy Tom's tales of Abbey Road and the European tour that followed. </div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/219191</link><pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2026 20:13:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/219191</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Conductor Tom Ruscica has recorded many albums with his university ensembles. But the most recent release is different- this time they recorded at London's legendary Abbey Road Studios. 
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Conductor Tom Ruscica has recorded many albums with his university ensembles. But the most recent release is different- this time they recorded at London's legendary Abbey Road Studios. 
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12283154/16089_local-artist-feature_tom-ruscica-choral-conductor.wav" length="163211710" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12283156/tom-ruscica-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Neoclassical Pianist and Composer Releases Sophomore Project</title><description>Christopher Alexander explores themes of nostalgia, grief, existentialism, and the wonder of nature through the lens of inspiration and beauty.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Christopher Alexander started out as a pianist interested in romantic composers and film scores. Now, he's become a composer himself, with this as his mission statement: "<span>I compose hopeful, emotionally nuanced neoclassical piano music exploring themes of nostalgia, grief, existentialism, and the wonder of nature through the lens of inspiration and beauty."</span> And- he has just released his sophomore effort to the world, in which he is both pianist and composer! His first EP Searching for Stars focused on nature. His newest album Living the Questions is inspired by poetry and focuses on those existential questions and experiences we all have to sit with in life, but as promised -with hope. In this feature we enjoy selections from both releases, including a guest artist performance by the Grammy-nominated cellist Chloe Mendola. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature August 14th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/218998</link><pubDate>Mon, 17 Aug 2026 21:48:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/218998</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Christopher Alexander explores themes of nostalgia, grief, existentialism, and the wonder of nature through the lens of inspiration and beauty.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Christopher Alexander explores themes of nostalgia, grief, existentialism, and the wonder of nature through the lens of inspiration and beauty.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12283053/16089_local-artist-feature_christopher-alexander-pianist-and-composer.wav" length="129178160" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12283058/christopher-alexander2-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Two-time Grammy Nominee is an Obvious Choice for Development Role with Sacramento Philharmonic</title><description>Rena Harms is a powerhouse of a soprano- with major roles internationally, and two Grammy nominations to her credit. She has since joined the Staff of the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Soprano Rena Harms has had a sensation of a career. She has performed many major roles both internationally and nationally. The NY Times has called her <span>“a luminous soprano.” The SF Chronicle agrees that her voice is “winningly liquid” and that she possesses “dramatic vividness and vocal flourish.” Two Grammy nominations round out these accolades. She found her way here to the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera after stepping in last second (literally one day's notice!) to cover the lead role in one of their productions after one of the singers was too ill to go on. She decided to stick around, and, in addition to still performing in an occasional Sac Phil production, she also is now Managing Director of Opera & Community Partnerships. </span></div>
<div><span>In this feature we get to know Rena's journey and enjoy samples of her performing many different arias, accompanied by Dr. John Cozza. </span></div>
<div><span></span></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature August 7th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/218829</link><pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 20:00:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/218829</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Rena Harms is a powerhouse of a soprano- with major roles internationally, and two Grammy nominations to her credit. She has since joined the Staff of the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Rena Harms is a powerhouse of a soprano- with major roles internationally, and two Grammy nominations to her credit. She has since joined the Staff of the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282974/16089_local-artist-feature_rena-harms-soprano.wav" length="156043646" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282972/rena-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Busy Pianist Wears All the Hats</title><description>You may have just seen her with the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera, but Dr. Kathryn Eames' career spans the entire state.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Pianist Dr. Kathryn Eames has made a career out of just about every possible avenue the piano can take. She's of course a wonderful soloist to start. She also is a busy orchestral pianist with multiple symphonies, a sought after instructor, and a powerful proponent for new music- including video game and movie scores! And, this work is constantly taking her all over California. In this feature we enjoy her origin story as well as diverse examples of her musical output. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature July 31st, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/218622</link><pubDate>Mon, 03 Aug 2026 19:41:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/218622</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>You may have just seen her with the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera, but Dr. Kathryn Eames' career spans the entire state.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>You may have just seen her with the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera, but Dr. Kathryn Eames' career spans the entire state.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282863/16089_local-artist-feature_dr-kathryn-eames-piano.wav" length="182207010" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282882/kathryneames-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Italian and American Heritage Blend Seamlessly for this Soprano</title><description>Soprano Vanessa Martucci brings her Italian heritage to the stage, including her recent debut with the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>The Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera recently welcomed a brand new face onstage- soprano Vanessa Martucci! But Vanessa has been performing long before her debut with the Sac Phil. In this feature we discover how she found her way to opera as a young girl, and also how her Italian heritage influences her sound. And of course-as always- there are many samples of her work to enjoy as well. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature July 24th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/218460</link><pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 17:29:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/218460</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Soprano Vanessa Martucci brings her Italian heritage to the stage, including her recent debut with the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Soprano Vanessa Martucci brings her Italian heritage to the stage, including her recent debut with the Sacramento Philharmonic and Opera!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282760/16089_local-artist-feature_vanessa-martucci-soprano.wav" length="71626946" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282758/vaness-martucci-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Dr. Brittany Trotter uses the flute to... beatbox!</title><description>The flute is one of the oldest instruments in the world. Dr. Brittany Trotter is exploring NEW ways to use it!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>The flute is one of the oldest instruments in the world. There are relics made of bird bone and mammoth ivory dating as far back as 40,000 years ago. Dr. Brittany Trotter is propelling the instrument forward in time with all sorts of creative "new" uses and soundscapes. For example, did you know you can use the flute to beatbox? It also make a lovely contributor to sonic worlds involving electronics!</div>
<div>In this feature we enjoy recordings of several creative uses of the flute. We also enjoy recordings of Dr. Trotter's classical background and get to know her passion for education as well. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature July 17th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/218271</link><pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 20:11:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/218271</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>The flute is one of the oldest instruments in the world. Dr. Brittany Trotter is exploring NEW ways to use it!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>The flute is one of the oldest instruments in the world. Dr. Brittany Trotter is exploring NEW ways to use it!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282680/16089_local-artist-feature_brittany-trotter-flute.wav" length="106183646" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282679/brittany-trotter-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Violinist Finds A Knack For Conducting...By Accident</title><description>He's a violinist...and a conductor...AND an educator! Find out in this feature how he manages all three sides of his career.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Paolo Reyes has been playing violin since childhood. But it wasn't until adulthood that he realized he's got a knack for two other sides of the music business: conducting and education. And he's managed to make a trifecta of a career out of all three of these talents! </div>
<div>In this feature we explore his thoughts on the values of music education as well as get some backstories on his discovery of the violin! We also enjoy his performances in various different instrumental lineups. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature July 10th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/218073</link><pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 20:33:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/218073</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>He's a violinist...and a conductor...AND an educator! Find out in this feature how he manages all three sides of his career.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>He's a violinist...and a conductor...AND an educator! Find out in this feature how he manages all three sides of his career.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282588/16089_local-artist-feature_paolo-reyes-violin.wav" length="144361374" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282587/paolo-reyes-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Composer Writes Music to Help Deal with Tragedy- Including His Own.</title><description>We all know that music heals. Composer Kurt Erickson takes a firsthand approach in writing music to help deal with life's tragedies.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><p class="">Composer Kurt Erickson specializes in writing works for multi-disciplinary collaborative projects that address loss and healing. His song set <em>Here, Bullet</em> has been performed across the globe and occupies a unique place in the classical music world as a composition being turned into a short film, as a vehicle for veterans arts therapy programs, and the recipient of the First Prize Award in the 2020 NATS Art Song Composition Competition.</p>
<p class=""><em>Each Moment Radiant</em>, his latest work with poet Brian Turner, tells the stories of interweaving lives affected by the tragic bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 in December 1988. The work honors loss while celebrating resilience, love, and our capacity to celebrate the precious and ephemeral moments in our daily lives.</p>
<p class="">In this feature we enjoy samples of both these works, in addition to several others, and Kurt shares some of his own vulnerable personal tragedy as well. </p>
<p class="">Performers in this feature include: Sybarite5 and pianist Tania Stavreva, Kindra Scharich-mezzo-soprano, Paul Yarbrough-viola, Tony Striplin-clarinet, Jeff LaDeur-piano, Joel David Balzun-baritone, Kathleen Roland-Silverstein-mezzo soprano, Katie Weber-mezzo soprano, Philip Marten-violin, Holgen Gjoni- cello, and Scott Cuellar-piano.</p>
<p class=""> </p>
<p class=""><em>Local Artist Feature June 12th, 2026</em></p>
<p class=""> </p>
<p class=""><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/217458</link><pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 21:57:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/217458</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>We all know that music heals. Composer Kurt Erickson takes a firsthand approach in writing music to help deal with life's tragedies.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>We all know that music heals. Composer Kurt Erickson takes a firsthand approach in writing music to help deal with life's tragedies.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282334/16089_local-artist-feature_kurt-erickson-composer.wav" length="106237266" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282345/kurt-errickson-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>The Only Thing Better than One Flute Is...Four Flutes!</title><description>When you picture a quartet, most likely string instruments spring to mind. But have you considered an all flute quartet? Turns out they do exist, and they can even play jazz!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Flutes aren't exactly the top of mind instrument to comprise a quartet, but they really make a fascinating combination when they do! Given the many different size and types of flutes out there, a quartet of four players can present as many as twelve flutes in one composition. They can also play lots of different genres!</div>
<div>The wonderful women who comprise FluteSong4- <span>Carina Celesia Moore, Pat Walton, Irene Warschauer, and Ann DiPasquale- </span>were collectively my local artist feature, in anticipation of their jazz show at Twin Lotus Thai. </div>
<div>In this feature Ann DiPasquale walks us through how the ensemble works and we enjoy a variety of recordings.</div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature June 5th, 2026 </em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/217397</link><pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 19:41:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/217397</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>When you picture a quartet, most likely string instruments spring to mind. But have you considered an all flute quartet? Turns out they do exist, and they can even play jazz!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>When you picture a quartet, most likely string instruments spring to mind. But have you considered an all flute quartet? Turns out they do exist, and they can even play jazz!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282314/16089_local-artist-feature_-flutesong4-flute-quartet.wav" length="119702992" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282312/flute-song-4-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Pulitzer Prize Winner for Music This Year Happens to be Local</title><description>Gabriela Lena Frank was named Musical America’s Composer of the Year, the same month she won the Pulitzer Prize for Music. Wow!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Gabriela Lena Frank is about to become a household name. She was named Musical America’s Composer of the Year. Her opera about Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera is being performed at the Met, making her the first woman of color ever to have an opera staged there. And earlier this month she won the Pulitzer Prize for Music. To make it even more special, she is one of our own! She is from Berkeley originally and currently lives in Mendocino County, while also acting as Artist in Residence for the lucky students right here at UOP. </div>
<div>In this feature we discuss all of the above and enjoy examples of many iterations of her composing. </div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature May 29th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/217013</link><pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 06:19:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/217013</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Gabriela Lena Frank was named Musical America’s Composer of the Year, the same month she won the Pulitzer Prize for Music. Wow!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Gabriela Lena Frank was named Musical America’s Composer of the Year, the same month she won the Pulitzer Prize for Music. Wow!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282128/16089_local-artist-feature_gabriela-lena-frank-composer.wav" length="131140714" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282130/gabrielalenafrank-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>From the New York Philharmonic to Founding the Chamber Music Society of Sacramento</title><description>Bill Barbini was one of the youngest violinists ever selected to the New York Philharmonic. He has since moved to Sacramento and formed the now long-standing Chamber Music Society.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Violinist Bill Barbini has had a decorated and full career. After Julliard he became one of the youngest violinists to join the New York Philharmonic, and had the singular experience of performing under the baton of Leonard Bernstein! Since then he has made Sacramento his home and worked as concertmaster to many an ensemble here- including the Sacramento Philharmonic, Monterey Symphony, S.F. Chamber Orchestra, and Pacific Symphony. You might now know him best for his work with the Chamber Music Society of Sacramento, an ensemble he founded upon moving here in 1987. </div>
<div>In this feature we enjoy discussing memories of his life and career, and listening to some performances with the Chamber Music Society. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature May 22nd, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/216962</link><pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 19:06:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/216962</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Bill Barbini was one of the youngest violinists ever selected to the New York Philharmonic. He has since moved to Sacramento and formed the now long-standing Chamber Music Society.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Bill Barbini was one of the youngest violinists ever selected to the New York Philharmonic. He has since moved to Sacramento and formed the now long-standing Chamber Music Society.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282079/16089_local-artist-feature_bill-barbini-violin.wav" length="118641986" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282081/bill-barbini-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Sicilian Guitarist Makes His Home in Northern California</title><description>Italian culture is strong in these acoustic guitar performances, ranging from the Italian baroque to modern day originals.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Guitarist Peppino D'Agostino was born in Sicily and has since performed in over 30 countries. And now- lucky us -he makes his home right here in the Bay Area. </div>
<div>In this feature we explore his stunning and flavorful originals, and also enjoy some Baroque music in which Peppino is joined by another guitar legend, David Tanenbaum. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature May 15th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/216930</link><pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 20:09:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/216930</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Italian culture is strong in these acoustic guitar performances, ranging from the Italian baroque to modern day originals.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Italian culture is strong in these acoustic guitar performances, ranging from the Italian baroque to modern day originals.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282080/16089_local-artist-feature_peppino-dagostino-classical-guitar.wav" length="236171110" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12282084/peppino-dagostino-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>22 year Old Pianist Is Taking the Classical World By Storm</title><description>Pianist Parker Van Ostrand may have been born in 2003, but he already has the music career of a man twice his age.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>22 year old pianist Parker V. started winning piano competitions at the age of five. Since then he's taken first prize at the SF International Piano Competition, and Third Prize/Best Sonata at the International Chopin Competition. He's also got some great performance accolades his belt, with numerous international appearances, collaborations with the likes of Yuja Wong, and concertos with the SF Symphony. Most recently he joined the Auburn Symphony Orchestra for Rachmaninoff's second piano concerto at the Mondavi Center.</div>
<div>In this feature we enjoy live performances of several different composers, and discuss how things like the gym and ziplining keep him sane. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature May 8th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/216602</link><pubDate>Wed, 13 May 2026 18:07:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/216602</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Pianist Parker Van Ostrand may have been born in 2003, but he already has the music career of a man twice his age.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Pianist Parker Van Ostrand may have been born in 2003, but he already has the music career of a man twice his age.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281923/16089_local-artist-feature_parker-van-ostrand-piano.wav" length="266282086" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281921/parkervanostrand-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>The Local Artist Feature Celebrates the Milestone 100th Episode!</title><description>Over two years ago the Local Artist Feature was started. This April we reached the milestone of the 100th feature on air! And, we had a live concert at the station to celebrate.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><p>Hi- I'm Midday Classical Host Jennifer Reason. I began the weekly Local Artist Feature over two years ago, with the goal of highlighting and celebrating the incredible musical talent in our Northern California community. Now, this April, the milestone 100th feature has been reached- and without repeating one guest on air! In celebration, we recorded a live concert right here in the station's community room and invited multiple guest artists to come participate. Some guests were previous features, others were brand new; the performances ranged from solo classical guitar, to opera, to jazz quartet- all reflecting our music station's on air programming. </p>
<p>Enjoy the entire hour long live concert recording, and be sure to tune in every Friday at noon and 6pm as we look to future milestones for the feature!</p>
<div></div>
<div>
<p><strong>Performers:</strong></p>
<p>Guitarist<span> </span><a href="https://www.csus.edu/faculty/e/england/">George England</a></p>
<p>Cellist<span> </span><a href="https://mikedahlberg.com/about">Mike Dahlberg</a>, accompanied by Jennifer Reason</p>
<p>Pianist<span> </span><a href="https://www.gigsalad.com/arend_aldama_pianist_sacramento1">Arend Aldama</a></p>
<p>Tenor<span> </span><a href="https://www.operabase.com/robert-vann-a86149/en">Robert Vann</a>, accompanied by Jennifer Reason </p>
<p>Italian Soprano<span> </span><a href="https://eastsacramento.musiclab.co/project/vanessa-martucci/">Vanessa Martucci</a>, accompanied by Jennifer Reason</p>
<p>Violinist<span> </span><a href="https://www.sacramentoyouthsymphony.org/guest-bio-page">Bill Barbini</a><span> </span>and Flutist<span> </span><a href="https://sacramento365.com/artist/mathew-krejci/">Mathew Krejci</a>, accompanied by Jennifer Reason </p>
<p>CapRadio’s<span> </span><a href="/about/bios/mike-nelson/">Mike Nelson</a><span> </span>on French horn, accompanied by Jennifer Reason</p>
<p>Jazz Combo with<span> </span><a href="/about/bios/avery-jeffry/">Avery Jeffry</a><span> </span>on standup bass,<span> </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/andrew.playsjazz/">Andrew Maloney</a><span> </span>on sax,<span> </span><a href="https://andrewmillsmusic.com/">Andrew Mills</a><span> </span>on jazz guitar, and drummer<span> </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jerpaz/">Jeremy Paz</a></p>
</div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
<div></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/216541</link><pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 17:44:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/216541</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Over two years ago the Local Artist Feature was started. This April we reached the milestone of the 100th feature on air! And, we had a live concert at the station to celebrate.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Over two years ago the Local Artist Feature was started. This April we reached the milestone of the 100th feature on air! And, we had a live concert at the station to celebrate.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281880/16089_new2-cello-laf-final-musicside.mp3" length="122101511" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281893/mike-and-jen-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>ABC10's Evening News Anchor Divulges Secret Prior Life as a Classical Musician</title><description>You may know her as an evening news anchor for ABC 10. But did you know that Lora Painter is also a classically trained pianist and soprano?
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>People will pleasantly surprise you if you let them. Most of us watching the news would never guess that ABC10 evening news anchor Lora Painter is harboring a lifelong talent for piano and singing! In this feature we get to know her musical side, and enjoy live recordings from her tour of Seoul, fronting a big band, and also playing a little casual Debussy on vacation. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature April 17th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/215989</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 21:24:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/215989</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>You may know her as an evening news anchor for ABC 10. But did you know that Lora Painter is also a classically trained pianist and soprano?
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>You may know her as an evening news anchor for ABC 10. But did you know that Lora Painter is also a classically trained pianist and soprano?
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281638/16089_local-artist-feature-interview-4-17-26-1.wav" length="180062866" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281636/lora-painter-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Sac State has a New Cello Professor and He Brings Wide Expertise to the Role</title><description>Cellist Kyle Stachnik comes to Sac State via the Bay Area, and brings broad experience with him.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>You may have heard him in his role as executive and artistic director of Viridian Strings. Or perhaps you caught him in a performance with the Santa Rosa Symphony or the Bay Philharmonic. Wherever you've listened, you discovered Kyle Stachnik's lush and warm cello playing and adept musicality- skills that he now brings to the students at Sac State's School of Music in his new role as cello professor. In this feature we enjoy several performances recorded live in San Francisco, and hear about his journey to arriving in Sacramento. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature April 10th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/215981</link><pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 21:05:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/215981</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Cellist Kyle Stachnik comes to Sac State via the Bay Area, and brings broad experience with him.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Cellist Kyle Stachnik comes to Sac State via the Bay Area, and brings broad experience with him.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281605/16089_local-artist-feature_kyle-stachnik-cello.wav" length="280217754" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281608/kylestachnik-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>The wide versatility of....the tuba?</title><description>Sacramento-based composer, educator and professional tubist Portia Njoku opens our eyes to the expansive world of her instrument.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>It turns out the tuba isn't just in parades and marching bands. Professional tubist Portia Njoku is keen to educate the world on the many different (and expressive) roles the tuba can have in music. In this feature we enjoy her own compositions for tuba quartet- both moving tributes to Dr. Martin Luther King, and we also sample the tuba in Vaudeville Blues and Oktoberfest stylings. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature April 3, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/215803</link><pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 03:20:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/215803</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Sacramento-based composer, educator and professional tubist Portia Njoku opens our eyes to the expansive world of her instrument.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Sacramento-based composer, educator and professional tubist Portia Njoku opens our eyes to the expansive world of her instrument.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281469/16089_local-artist-feature_portia-njoku-tuba.wav" length="157923162" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281548/portia-njoku-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Violinist from Yale has been Impacting Our Community for Two Decades!</title><description>From Grammy-nominated ensembles to decades in the classroom, violinist Anna Presler is everywhere in our community!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Violinist Anna Presler may have studied at Yale, but she's spent the last two decades teaching and working right here in our area. Her efforts and accolades could fill a book - they include long time membership in both the Grammy nominated New Century Chamber Orchestra and the Left Coast Chamber Ensemble, as well as holding a professorship at Sac State's School of Music since the 1990's. In this feature we discuss the joys of chamber music and enjoy performances by Left Coast. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature March 27, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/215642</link><pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:42:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/215642</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>From Grammy-nominated ensembles to decades in the classroom, violinist Anna Presler is everywhere in our community!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>From Grammy-nominated ensembles to decades in the classroom, violinist Anna Presler is everywhere in our community!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281458/16089_local-artist-feature_-anna-presler-violin.wav" length="296249952" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281456/annapresler-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Harpist from the Detroit Symphony moves here to Sacramento, and brings her own record label with her!</title><description>Harpist Kerstin Allvin is a multi-genre artist with her own record label and school for harp!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Kerstin Allvin has been in music her whole life, having gravitated to the harp as a child. She's gone on to play for the Detroit Symphony for 40 years, found her own record label-High Heel Records, and also start a school for harp right here in Sacramento where she now resides. In this feature we discuss how she's turned the harp into a multi-genre performance avenue for herself and also enjoy her performances ranging from classical to jazz. </div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature March 13, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/215035</link><pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:38:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/215035</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Harpist Kerstin Allvin is a multi-genre artist with her own record label and school for harp!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Harpist Kerstin Allvin is a multi-genre artist with her own record label and school for harp!
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281146/16089_local-artist-feature_kerstin-allvin-harp.wav" length="274174152" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12281281/032526kerstin-p.jpg" /></item><item><title>Choral Conductor Julie Adams embodies the heart of CapRadio's musical programming</title><description>Both classical and jazz are reflected in this feature of choral conductor Julie Adams, as is her mission to make the world a better place through music.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>By Jennifer Reason</p><div>Choral conductor Julie Adams has quite the legacy here in our community: she worked with the Sacramento Children's Chorus and American River College, and was also the founder of groups like the award winning CSUS Vocal Jazz Ensemble and RSVP-Reconciliation Singers Voices of Peace. In this feature we enjoy Julie directing performances in both her areas of expertise: classical AND jazz. We also hear her wonderful thoughts on just how powerful a force for reconciliation music can be.</div>
<div></div>
<div><em>Local Artist Feature February 27th, 2026</em></div>]]></content:encoded><link>https://www.capradio.org/214669</link><pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 21:40:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://www.capradio.org/214669</guid><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Both classical and jazz are reflected in this feature of choral conductor Julie Adams, as is her mission to make the world a better place through music.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary>Both classical and jazz are reflected in this feature of choral conductor Julie Adams, as is her mission to make the world a better place through music.
This story is part of CapRadio's Local Artist Feature Series.</itunes:summary><enclosure url="https://www.capradio.org/media/12280959/16089_local-artist-feature_julie-adams-choral-conductor.wav" length="291523492" type="audio/mpeg" /><itunes:image href="https://www.capradio.org/media/12280965/030426_julieadams_p.jpg" /></item></channel></rss>