From the Archives - For the Birds

By Frank Byrne,

Sam Wisman

Published April 1, 2025 at 2:13 PM CDT

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.

Compositions and Recordings

Symphony No. 83 "The Hen"
by Franz Josef Haydn
Neville Marriner and the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields

The Swan
by Camille Saint-Saëns
Paul Tortelier, cello

The Birds
by Ottorino Respighi
Henry Raudales and the Munich Radio Orchestra

La Gazza Ladra Overture
by Gioacchino Rossini
Fernando Previtali and the Orchestra Santa Cecilia Rome

From the Archives with Frank Byrne

Frank Byrne

Frank Byrne is the host of From the Archives.

Sam Wisman

Sam Wisman is Production Director for 91.9 Classical KC and a backup announcer for KCUR 89.3