After over 40 years, the weekly Celtic music program The Thistle & Shamrock has come to an end. Fiona Ritchie, who has been the host and producer since she created the program in 1983, wrapped up her last program on September 30.

Today, two hundred years after his birth, Anton Bruckner’s music continues to challenge and fascinate. He was a humble man. A devout Catholic. A highly trained organist. A largely self-taught composer. A singular voice in music, especially in his massive symphonies.

Dina Gilbert appeared as Guest Conductor with the orchestra back in February. She currently serves as Music Director of the Kamloops Symphony, as well as Assistant Conductor of the Montreal Symphony in her native Québec. She sees Walla Walla as an “orchestra of the future,” and as a place where she can help develop new and younger audiences.

Since 1993, musicians from around the country have gathered in Northwest Washington for the Bellingham Festival of Music. Co-founder and Artistic Director Michael Palmer stepped down from conducting duties in 2002, opening the door for a new leader of the orchestra. Enter Brazilian-born Marcelo Lehninger.

Music inspired by Mythology and Historical events of April 6th.

Music written for Easter.

Inspired by Spring, the flowers, birds, wind, and growing warmth.

Music for St. Patrick's Day, pulling in a rainbow variety of classical music.

Classical music can have a reputation of being all too serious. But not in the hands of Sarah Hagen. Part piano recital, part comedy show, “Perk Up Pianist!” pairs anecdotes and stories with pieces by Chopin, Debussy, and Liszt. NWPB’s Steve Reeder spoke with Hagen.

Music can express and inspire so many emotions. That makes it a perfect way–a “heartfelt” way–for you to show your love and appreciation to someone who plays an important role in your life.