It's a first: this Saturday, June 20th, a local luminary will be serving up musical shots with me in the Classical Coffeehouse. Be sure to tune in as we celebrate Father’s Day weekend on WRTI with David Kim—concertmaster of The Philadelphia Orchestra, a devoted dad, and a longtime family friend of mine. What an honor to welcome him to the show!
David is an exceptional musician, shining as soloist, chamber musician, and of course as “leader” (as they say in Britain) of our beloved Philadelphia Orchestra. David and his wife Jane are parents to two wonderful daughters, who are now college students. Having known the Kim girls since they were babies, I can attest that the stellar qualities David brings to his music extend to his roles as parent and family man as well.
I’m excited to have him join me in the studio from 9 AM to noon. David will share insights and stories about his life, and we’ll play some of his favorite pieces of music. He’ll also share his own dad’s favorites. Together we’ll hear music of Brahms, Dvorak, Mozart, Strauss, Stravinsky, and some humorous surprises that show an unexpected side to our fabulous Philadelphia concertmaster. He'll also fill you in on the Orchestra's virtual, free, at-home gala coming up tonight at 8 PM featuring performances from The Philadelphia Orchestra, Wynton Marsalis, Renée Fleming, Lang Lang, Nicola Benedetti, Yo-Yo Ma, Steve Martin, and more. You can watch it on The Philadelphia Orchestra’s Facebook page or online here.
Throughout the morning, starting bright and early at 6 AM, expect the fresh mix of music you always rely on in the Coffeehouse. We’ll highlight works of great composers who were also fathers, and pieces that a lot of dads will relate to— tennis, anyone? Golf? The sacred side of fatherhood will be noted too, in beautiful choral music set to the Pater Noster, “Our Father.”
At 10 AM, David will reveal the winner of the Special Saturday Espresso contest, so make sure to vote here before 9 AM on Saturday.
Finally, here’s a bonus question: What do George Clooney and David Kim have in common?
To find out, tune in to Saturday Morning Classical Coffeehouse, and listen all the way through. Candid conversation and great music will keep you company this Father's Day weekend.