Frank Byrne
Host, From the ArchivesFrank Byrne has spent his life in music administration, first as the senior administrator of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band in Washington, DC, and later as Executive Director of the Kansas City Symphony. In addition to his administrative work, Byrne was also a professional tuba player and student of legendary Chicago Symphony tubist Arnold Jacobs. He has lived the music business on stage and in the office, and has retained his passion for great music and the people who make it.
His passion is fueled by intense curiosity and a desire to understand what makes some performances extraordinary. As a picture is worth a thousand words, some special recordings convey qualities that go beyond words, with their own power and compelling message. Finding and sharing those special performances remains a lifelong hobby and obsession. He also believes that Classical KC provides a wonderful opportunity to share great music with an entirely new audience and hopes to help make that a reality.
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Gustav Holst’s “The Planets” is one of the most famous works in the orchestral repertoire. Its inspired melodies and marvelous scoring were innovative when composed, and clearly a labor of love. We’ll hear it in a classic 1970 recording by the Boston Symphony that has been restored and remastered with amazing results. -
Dmitri Shostakovich composed powerful music in many genres. We’ll hear a wonderful concerto composed for a dear friend his, and an evocative film score honoring a famous scientist. -
The combination of violin, cello, and piano has long been a favorite of composers, chamber musicians, and audiences. We have two excellent trios, both happen to be in G minor, and both are by incredible women composers – Cecile Chaminade and Clara Schumann. -
For centuries the name of King Arthur has inspired works of art, literature, and music. We have music by three British composers from the 17th to the 20th centuries, each of which captures the spirit and mystery of this legendary sovereign. -
Dance music throughout the ages has been an integral part of life and art. Dances from the Renaissance period were popular music of their day and are reflective, joyful, and can be great fun. We’ll explore music of four of the best Renaissance composers. -
To mark the 250th anniversary of America’s independence, enjoy a program of American music old and new, familiar and refreshingly current. As our nation has changed over time, so has our music. -
We have more themes and variations with music from France, England, and Germany. From massive orchestral moments to equally massive moments on piano alone, we'll works by Vincent d'Indy, Hubert Parry and Johannes Brahms. -
In Franz Schubert’s tragically short life, his Viennese friends loved arranging musical soirees where his music was featured. They called these events “Schubertiades.” In this episode, we have our own Schubertiade featuring his glorious final piano sonata. -
The Leningrad Philharmonic of old was a legendary musical experience. This episode features two of Russia’s greatest instrumental soloists in live 1960s performances with that great orchestra. It’s dynamic and not to be missed. -
Iconic British composer Sir Edward Elgar is known for his marvelous “Enigma Variations,” but he also composed symphonies and a variety of other music. His second symphony from 1911, is a thought-provoking expression of the end of the Edwardian era and the full measure of the new 20th Century.
