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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Music has always been able to transport us to another place. In the 19th and early 20th century when travel was difficult, people became fascinated with exotic locations via literature, and composers were inspired to write about them and give their musical impressions of these faraway lands. -
For centuries composers have been inspired by birds – their songs and their grace. This week we have masterful examples by Haydn, Saint-Saëns, Respighi, and Rossini, each of whom represent birds in their own unique way. -
The great operas have magnificent orchestral scores that help drive the action on stage. In this episode, enjoy orchestral arrangements of some of the most dramatic moments from operas by Modest Mussorgsky, Richard Wagner, and Giacomo Puccini. -
Frédéric Chopin wanted to “express the heart and soul of man” through his music. In celebration of his March 1st birthday, enjoy a special program of some of Chopin’s most extraordinary creations. -
French conductor Paul Paray was music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra for ten seasons and turned it into one of the top orchestras in the United States. We’ll hear an historic live concert from 1968, one with special meaning to him and his musicians. -
French conductor Paul Paray was a master of orchestral precision and texture. He made over 70 recordings during his tenure as music director of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. We’ll hear some of his best from the French repertoire he knew and loved. -
Czech pianist Ivan Moravec was one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century. While not one to promote himself, he was greatly respected around the world and was called “the poet of the piano.” We’ll hear his artistry on display in three familiar works by Beethoven. -
“Carmen” is not only one of the world’s favorite operas, it is also the source of irresistible melodies that live on in popular culture. Host Frank Byrne guides you through three works inspired by George Bizet's memorable music. -
Host Frank Byrne has prepared a program of carols composed over two centuries. Music by Marc-Antoine Charpentier, Morton Gould, and Benjamin Britten will remind us of the long history and musical traditions of the holiday. -
What music would you like to have if marooned on a desert island? Host Frank Byrne shares some of his favorites – music by Richard Strauss and Josef Strauss, Mascagni, Chopin, and Bolcom. Get your sunscreen and dream of warmer weather as you listen to these musical masterpieces.
