BUFFALO, N.Y. – Classical 94.5 WNED’s new “Young Performers” radio program, a series geared to celebrate musically-talented youth, is set to debut on Sunday, July 29 at 6 p.m.

“Young Performers” shines a spotlight on the most accomplished, young, regional musicians from Western New York, Southern Ontario and Northwestern Pennsylvania. The classical performances of vocal and instrumental soloists and groups were recorded at the WNED studios and on location at Denton, Cottier & Daniels Pianos and Organs in Getzville and Koerner Hall at the Royal Conservatory in Toronto, Ont. The new series recognizes area youth who are accomplishing something positive and culturally significant through music.

“We’re honored to be featuring the best youth musical talent in the area through ‘Young Performers,’” said Donald K. Boswell, president and CEO of WNED. “These young people are incredibly talented and I know our listeners will be amazed by their performances.”

The schedule includes 13 programs airing weekly on Sundays from 6 – 8 p.m. with an encore presentation Mondays at 10 p.m.  The host of the show is Marty Wimmer who is a longtime announcer at Classical 94.5 WNED and a music educator. Producer Stratton Rawson interviewed the musicians and joins Wimmer in discussing the performances during each episode. Geoff Allen is the recording and production engineer, responsible for the production’s excellent sound quality.

“We are really looking forward to showcasing the fine young classical musicians in this area,” said Gabe DiMaio, Classical 94.5 WNED program director. “This program celebrates youth doing something musically meaningful which fits perfectly with the mission of Classical 94.5 WNED.”
“Young Performers” is funded by the Smith Family Foundation. For more information, please visit wned.org/youngperformers.

Through WNED-TV, ThinkBright and Well/WORLD TV, Classical 94.5 WNED-FM and WBFO-FM 88.7/WNED-AM 970, member-supported WNED Buffalo/Toronto provides high quality programming and services to local, regional and national audiences that enlighten, inspire, entertain and educate Western New York and Southern Ontario communities. Additional information about WNED can be found at wned.org.