Classical Music Station in Chicago

WFMT is the home of classical music in Chicago! Stream us live online, or listen to our on-demand programming.

Introduction

If you’re a lover of classical music, then you’ll be happy to know that there’s a classical music station in Chicago. WFMT is the city’s go-to station for all things classical. They play a mix of music from different eras and composers, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, they have a variety of other programs that you can listen to, like interviews with musicians and discussions about classical music.

What is classical music?

Classical music is art music produced or rooted in the traditions of Western culture, including both liturgical (religious) and secular music. While a more precise term is also used to refer to the period from 1750 to 1820 (the Classical period), this article is about the broad span of time from before the 6th century AD to the present day, which includes the Classical period and various other periods. The central norms of this tradition became codified between 1550 and 1900, which is known as the common-practice period.

History of classical music

Classical music is art music produced or rooted in the traditions of Western culture, including both liturgical (religious) and secular music. While a more precise term is also used to refer to the period from 1750 to 1820 (the Classical period), this article is about the broad span of time from before the 6th century AD to the present day, which includes the Classical period and various other periods. The central norms of this tradition became codified between 1550 and 1900, which is known as the common-practice period.

The Station

WFMT is a classical music station in Chicago that has been around for over 60 years. The station is known for its quality programming and its commitment to the classical music genre.

Location

The station is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, near many of the city’s most popular attractions. If you’re visiting the city, be sure to swing by and check out our collection of classical music!

Schedule

Here is the schedule for The Station, Chicago’s only all-classical music radio station!

We are on the air 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our daytime programming includes:

7:00 am – 9:00 am: repeats of our most popular morning show, “The Breakfast Hour”

9:00 am – 3:00 pm: music selected by our daytime DJs

3:00 pm – 7:00 pm: “The Drive Home” with Matt Wallis – your perfect soundtrack for the evening commute!

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm:”The Evening Concert” featuring recordings of live concerts from around the world

Programs

The Station offers a wide variety of programs to suit your classical music needs. From live performances to educational programs, we have something for everyone.

Our live performance program features world-renowned musicians performing in intimate settings. These concerts are perfect for music lovers of all ages and levels of experience.

Our educational program offers classes and workshops for adults and children of all ages. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out, or a seasoned professional, we have something for you.

We also offer a wide variety of online programs, so you can enjoy classical music from anywhere in the world. With new programs being added all the time, there’s always something new to discover.

The Music

If you are a fan of classical music, you will be in for a treat when you tune in to WFMT. This Chicago radio station is one of the most popular classical music stations in the country. You can expect to hear a wide variety of music, from Bach to Beethoven to Brahms.

Popularity

Though some argue that classical music is elitist, the genre has become increasingly popular in recent years. In 2012, a study conducted by the University of Chicago found that 36 percent of Americans listen to classical music, up from 27 percent in 1997. This surge in popularity can be attributed to a number of factors, including increased exposure through film and television, the globalization of culture, and the growing popularity of “crossover” artists who blend classical and pop styles.

Despite its recent rise in popularity, classical music still faces some challenges. For one, it can be difficult to find classical music stations on the radio. In Chicago, for example, there are only two full-time classical music stations: WFMT (98.7 FM) and WCRX (88.1 FM). In comparison, there are dozens of stations devoted to pop, rock, hip-hop, and other genres.

Another challenge facing classical music is that it is often seen as stuffy or boring. This perception is often perpetuated by those who have never been exposed to the genre; when people give classical music a chance, they often find that it is much more complex and interesting than they thought.

Types of classical music

There are many different types of classical music, each with its own unique history, style, and form. From the soaring symphonies of Beethoven to the delicate pieces of Mozart, there is a type of classical music to suit every taste. Here are just a few of the most popular types of classical music:

-Baroque: Baroque music (named after the Baroque period in which it was composed) is characterized by its ornate melodies and flashy style. Famous composers of Baroque music include Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi.

-Classical: Classical music (named after the Classical period in which it was composed) is characterized by its dramatic melodies and emotional intensity. Famous classical composers include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven.

-Romantic: Romantic music (named after the Romantic period in which it was composed) is characterized by its passionate lyrics and sweeping melodies. Famous Romantic composers include Frederic Chopin and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

The Future

As the popularity of classical music continues to decline in the United States, many are wondering what the future of the art form holds. In Chicago, one classical music station is taking a unique approach to ensure its survival. WFMT, which has been on the air for over 50 years, is now the only classical music station in the country that is listener-supported.

Challenges

There is no question that classical music faces some challenges in the years ahead. One of the most significant is the need to attract new listeners. According to a 2016 survey by the Pew Research Center, only 8 percent of Americans say they listen to classical music “often” or “very often,” down from 17 percent in 1992.

The aging of the audience is another major challenge. According to Nielsen, the average age of a classical music listener in the United States is now 58, up from 53 in 2013. This trend is likely to continue as baby boomers age and fewer young people develop an interest in classical music.

There are also financial challenges. Many orchestras and opera companies are facing declining ticket sales and donations. This has led to cutbacks in programming and staff, as well as increased competition for philanthropic support.

Despite these challenges, there are reasons for optimism about the future of classical music. One is the growing popularity of streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music, which make it easier than ever for people to discover and listen to classical music. Another is the increasing diversity of the classical music audience, which provides opportunities for new repertoire and innovative programming that can attract new listeners.

Opportunities

The opportunities for the classical music station in Chicago are many and varied. The station could continue to provide classical music programming on a regular basis, perhaps expanding its offerings to include more live concerts and educational programs. It could also explore other musical genres and formats, such as jazz, world music, or new music. Additionally, the station could create partnerships with local arts organizations to produce special programming or events.