10th Anniversary
This year, From the Top marks ten years in public broadcasting. In the late 1990s, From the Top's founders proposed a radio series that would celebrate the amazing performances and personal stories of the nation's top pre-collegiate classical musicians. Some were skeptical of its appeal. Yet, when From the Top with host Christopher O'Riley debuted in 2000, it became the fastest growing weekly classical music program in public radio history, and is now one of the most popular. Learn more about our history.
Over the years our non-profit has expanded to include an Emmy Award-winning television series, a national tour of live events, a scholarship program, and a robust cluster of educational partnerships and programs. Through these programs we inspire millions of people each week.
In celebration of our 10th Anniversary Season, our Alumni Spotlight Series brings back past performers to our radio show to celebrate their successes and reminisce on the compelling stories we have told over the years. You can also learn more about the early days of From the Top by downloading "The Pilot Years."
Read more about our alumni:
Evan Premo, 24, double bassist and composer, makes music with his wife, who originally heard him perform on From the Top back when they were both teenagers.
LaMont Barlow, 26, even while beginning a residency in urologic oncology, LaMont maintains a thriving musical life.
Lauren Chipman, 26, violist, rock star, and music teacher, defining new possibilities for the modern day string player.
Melissa White, 25, professional violinist with the hot young chamber ensemble, the Harlem Quartet, whose mission is to demonstrate diversity in classical music.
Maya Shankar, 23, Rhodes scholar and social activist, was forced to quit music as a teen only to find music back in her life seven years later.
Stephanie Nilles, 25, has left the classical music world behind and is pursuing a career as a touring singer-songwriter.
William Harvey, 26, is a leader who uses music to bring about positive change throughout the globe.