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John Van Driel

In John’s long radio career, he’s been an on-air host, arts editor, VP of Programming & Operations, and even a station manager. He’s produced and conducted thousands of interviews, and over 500 live to air studio performances from Lang Lang to Sondra Radvanovsky to Tafelmusik. In his previous life, he was VP of Programming for Toronto’s commercial classical music station, now he programs much of the music you hear on-air and online and hosts several overnight shows. John celebrates the beauty and diversity of classical music to help make life sound better.

MORE WITH John Van Driel

A Conversation with the Composer Behind Downton Abbey’s Unforgettable Theme

A Conversation with the Composer Behind Downton Abbey’s Unforgettable Theme

Explore the success of Downton Abbey: The Movie, set in 1927 England, overlooked in Oscar hype. Includes an interview with film score composer, John Van Driel.

Film/TV
01/14/2020
Previewing the American Youth Symphony’s Nature-Inspired Season

Previewing the American Youth Symphony’s Nature-Inspired Season

The American Youth Symphony kicks off its 55th season with a free concert at UCLA's Royce Hall, featuring works from Joan Tower, Beethoven, and Jean Sibelius.

Community
10/11/2019
Elizabeth Blumenstock on What Makes the Baroque Music Festival Corona Del Mar Different

Elizabeth Blumenstock on What Makes the Baroque Music Festival Corona Del Mar Different

The 39th Baroque Music Festival Corona Del Mar, led by violinist Elizabeth Blumenstock, offers a unique blend of music, beautiful locations, and community spirit.

Pop Culture
06/21/2019
Pianist Olga Kern Lights Up Southern California Concert Halls

Pianist Olga Kern Lights Up Southern California Concert Halls

Renowned pianist Olga Kern is set for a series of concerts in Southern California, starting at SOKA Performing Arts Centre. John Van Driel interviews her about her busy schedule.

Interviews
06/03/2019
Richard Yongjae O’Neill on Being the Broad Stage Artist-in-Residence

Richard Yongjae O’Neill on Being the Broad Stage Artist-in-Residence

Emmy-winning violist Richard Yongjae O’Neill performs British composers and L.A. Masters at the Broad Stage in Santa Monica. Tickets available at thebroadstage.org.

Piano
06/03/2019
Bear McCreary: Making Music for Godzilla & a String Quartet

Bear McCreary: Making Music for Godzilla & a String Quartet

USC Thornton School alumnus, Bear McCreary, discusses his successful career as a composer for films, TV, and video games, including his recent work on The Professor and Madman and Godzilla.

Film/TV
06/03/2019