Crossover

Here's the impressive story of a young Russian clarinetist who moved all the way to Philadelphia at age 17 for musical training and is now a rising star - one of the most prominent talents of his generation.

Born in 1982 in Kharkov, Ukraine, Alexander studied at The Curtis Institute of Music with Donald Montanaro, graduating in 2005. His accomplishments range from taking top honors at major international competitions to holding principal positions with leading orchestras under world-renowned conductors. He's been in demand as both soloist and ensemble player - attracting the attention of major conductors, as well as leading orchestras, ensembles, and festivals in the United States, Europe and Asia.

Jill Pasternak hits the trail! Joining her is composer, teacher, and wrangler Jett Hitt, who has composed a violin concerto based on his impressions of his beloved Yellowstone National Park.

The Academy of Vocal Arts scores once more with their production of Giocchino Rossini's time-honored opera buffa, The Barber of Seville. Three impressive casts have alternated through six performances in Philadelphia, Haverford and Warrington.   The opera will be broadcast on WRTI at 1 pm on Saturday, November 10th.  Prior to the broadcast, Jill Pasternak will feature three of the principals on Crossover at 11:30 am. They are Steven La Brie (Figaro), Sydney Mancasola (Rosina) and Diego Silva (Count Almaviva).  The production is conducted by maestro Richard Raub. 

The enlightening and well-received performance series Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel has been brought back by popular demand! The series, which had been canceled by the Kimmel Center, was resurrected by a group of devotees, the Friends of Keyboard Conversations, who raised funds to continue the performances. This illustrates, more than ever, how the commitment of music lovers to support performances that are accessible on so many levels CAN make a difference.

Listen back to an interview with Thomas Hampson from 2006. Jill Pasternak spoke with Mr. Hampson about his vision to create an American music radio series; that series - Song of America - is now showcased on WRTI on selected Sundays at 5 pm.

Jill Pasternak had the unique opportunity to speak with soprano Anna Netrebko, one of the brightest stars on the operatic stage today. Ms. Netrebko caused a sensation with her beauty, poise, and stunning vocal ability in her debuts in both Salzburg and The Met in 2002.  With the world at her feet, she has maintained a reputation of excellence and an independence in both her handling of her career and her private life. Her family is vitally important to her and her decisions about her career have been carefully made.