In Praise of “Backstage Pass” and an Invitation

When I first interviewed for a job here at WXXI in Rochester, one of the things I got to do was watch the making of the show Backstage Pass, hosted by Classical 91.5's music director Julia Figueras.

A violinist and a pianist played in the studio, and talked about the music with Julia in between the pieces, as it was broadcast on the radio and streamed online for listening and viewing.

It was exciting to see music being made as it went out over the radio. It was exciting to be in a place where something was being created.


 It's still exciting to me every time one of these shows happens. Over the past year the guests have included Imani Winds, harpist Bridget Kibbey, viola soloists from the International Viola Congress, Pegasus Early Music, and the Rochester Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.

Then last month, 135 people – all sustaining members of WXXI – came into the studio to share this excitement for a performance by the Ying Quartet.
 

How cool.

We're doing it again! Next week, February 15^th at 1pm, percussionist Kristen Shiner McGuire and friends will be playing on Backstage Pass. You can hear it on the radio, you can watch it streaming online, or you can be there in person.

Two seats will be reserved for you when you become a sustaining member of WXXI – contributing $5 per month (or more, always welcome!) – to support the station that brings you these exciting musical events along with all the music we get to enjoy every day.

I hope to see you there!

Related links:

- Backstage Pass

- Kristen Shiner McGuire

- Become a member of WXXI (or call: 800-295-9994)

- Watch previous episodes of Backstage Pass on YouTube