From The Top (At The Pops)

by Erich Kunzel / Cincinnati Pops Orchestra

In the past decade, From the Top has established itself as the preeminent showcase for young musicians, celebrating the performances and personal stories of America's top pre-collegiate classical musicians. What began as a radio experiment in 2000 quickly became one of the fastest growing and most popular weekly classical music programs on public radio - broadcast on nearly 250 stations nationwide. Today, the non-profit organization reaches millions each week through radio, television and online media, education and community outreach programs, and a national tour of live events. Now in their 10th Anniversary season, From the Top has joined forces with Telarc and the Cincinnati Pops to release their first major label recording, featuring a bright and diverse group of musicians from around the country.

In October 2008, From the Top and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra collaborated for three live concerts at Cincinnati Music Hall. Bringing together the energy of promising and engaging young artists, the affable presence of host Christopher O'Riley, and the power of Maestro Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops, the concert series culminated in this recording and a From the Top broadcast on NPR. The Cincinnati Enquirer called the featured performers, "mature beyond their years, with jaw-dropping talent" and acknowledged that "these gifted musicians are also articulate, interesting and yes, normal kids."

"Words cannot express the emotion I felt," says Erich Kunzel about the experience of conducting the young musicians for this recording. "Our performances were more than making great music, rather they were about hope and the future of our nation. The youth who performed were exemplary individuals in every manner and it showed both on and off stage, and their infectious desire for outstanding performance radiated to the members of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and audience."