NPR’s From the Top

From the Top, distributed by NPR, features the astounding performances and captivating personal stories of talented classically-trained young musicians from across the country. Broadcast on nearly 200 stations nationwide, From the Top is the most popular one-hour weekly syndicated classical program on public radio.

Hosted by pianist Peter Dugan, along with a team of regularly appearing co-hosts, From the Top delights listeners of all ages and backgrounds with its insights into the lives of inspiring young people.  Peter Dugan collaborates with the young musicians at the piano and his co-hosts — including violinist Tessa Lark, clarinetist Alex Laing, pianist Orli Shaham and violinist Charles Yang — widen the musical perspective of the program both in performance and conversation.   

All musicians featured on the program participate in From the Top’s Learning and Media Lab Fellowship.

Check out the full archive of radio recordings here.

Check out From the Top’s Virtual Concerts and subscribe to our video newsletter Daily Joy.

Subscribe to the podcast.

Find station broadcast times.

“As proof that classical music in America is alive and kicking, I’d like to direct those perennial naysayers to the radio show, and podcast, From the Top. The program (distributed by NPR) is a potent antidote to any gloom-and-doom doubter. For over 20 years, From the Top has built an impressive platform to celebrate the music, lives and stories of youngsters playing classical music. That’s right. Young people in this country love classical music.” — Tom Huizenga, NPR Music

“entertaining, accessible, and inspirational.”— The Boston Globe

“From the Top gives young musicians the stage but lets them act their age. It’s serious music but classically kids.” — The New York Times

“Tune in to From the Top and give yourself a dose of music and hope.”— The Los Angeles Times