From the Top

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From the Top is a weekly one-hour radio show produced in association with WGBH radio in Boston, Massachusetts. It showcases the nation's top young classical music performers. The program is broadcast weekly to a national audience of more than 750,000 listeners on National Public Radio. Formerly it was distributed by Public Radio International.

Musicians of any age can participate as long as they are less than 19 years of age when the show is being taped, and not yet attending a college or conservatory full-time. However, they must submit a CD or tape of their playing demonstrating exceptional proficiency in their instrument or singing. Musicians usually appear as a soloist or as a member of chamber ensemble, although sometimes large youth orchestras or wind groups are featured. Also, composers sometimes perform their compositions.

Each musician or group plays a piece that is about four minutes long (the time limit is slightly longer for chamber groups), and is then interviewed by the show's host, notable pianist Christopher O'Riley, who accompanies the young soloists. O'Riley also plays at the half-way point of each show, usually a transcription of rock music re-imagined as a classical piano solo.

There are also humorous skits throughout the show, often featuring a teenaged Roving Reporter. From the Top has been on the air since the late 1990s. Its base is in Boston, Massachusetts, but it travels frequently to cities across America. It is made possible by grants from various organizations and the New England Conservatory of Music. The conservatory also offers a scholarship of $7,500 to each performer on From the Top upon successful admission and matriculation at the conservatory.