School of Music Alumnus, Tyler Kline ’15, Celebrates 200th Episode of WUSF’s “Modern Notebook” and Expands to Nationwide Distribution
On July 2nd, WUSF Public Media will celebrate the 200th episode of the successful weekly radio program “Modern Notebook.” Created and produced by Tyler Kline, host on Classical WSMR, this program explores
the exciting and evolving genre of contemporary classical music. In addition to this
milestone, the program is opening a new chapter by expanding into nationwide distribution
to other public radio stations.
“Modern Notebook” is a unique program that highlights classical works primarily by
living composers. Kline explores this engaging genre, bringing a broad array of music
and insight to his audience. Through thoughtful research, curation, and occasional
discussion with guests, listeners hear the stories behind each piece to add context
and clarity to the music. Kline creates a new show every week for listeners and shines
a spotlight on the artistic contributions of living composers, including those in
often under-represented communities in classical music.
”My intention through 'Modern Notebook' is to expose the WSMR audience to newer classical
music in a way that is informative and accessible, so they may be able to appreciate
it in the same ways they appreciate music by composers like Beethoven and Mozart,”
said Kline. “This 200th episode is my favorite so far, bringing an exciting lineup
of compositions that have stuck with me throughout my time producing this show. It’s
full of composers I respect and pieces I believe the audience will find thrilling.
It is truly an episode that highlights everything there is to love about the landscape
of today's music.”
The first 199 episodes of Modern Notebook have explored works that run the spectrum,
everything from celebrated 20th Century composers such as György Ligeti and Toru Takemitsu to exciting new artists
like Jlin, Golfam Khayam, and Reena Esmail. Kline brings additional focus to composers
that engage with current events. The 200th episode will feature unique compositions
that engage with the issue of climate change and respond to topics such as domestic
violence in South Africa. With a new show every week, Kline shows the depth and impact
of new work and composers in this genre.
Kline earned his Master of Music Composition from the University of South Florida
and is an active composer in addition to his work at WSMR. His music has been performed
throughout the United States, and internationally in Asia, Europe, and South America.
With his own background, Kline is able to direct the listener to the unique techniques
and choices made by the artists in bringing these new works to life.
JoAnn Urofsky, General Manager at WUSF Public Media, praised “Modern Notebook’s” success,
“WUSF is incredibly pleased with Modern Notebook’s monumental achievement of 200 original
episodes. The nation-wide availability of this program will invite more listeners
to appreciate and engage with modern classical compositions and arrangements.” Looking
forward, Urofsky sees this as a big opportunity, “Tyler’s unique skills and insight
bring greater attention to the exceptional programming on Classical WSMR.”
Each program is two hours, and currently airs Sunday evenings from 8-10 PM on Classical WSMR. Through distribution on The PRX Exchange, public radio stations across the country
will have the opportunity to carry “Modern Notebook” and invite their listeners to
discover today’s classical composers.
“By making the program available on The PRX Exchange, we’ll be able to continue to
serve the artists, and introduce an even broader scope of listeners to contemporary
classical music,” added Kline.
WUSF is proud to feature programs like “Modern Notebook” on Classical WSMR, encouraging
further attention and wider appreciation for orchestral compositions and performance
in the Tampa Bay area.
About WUSF Public Media
WUSF Public Media is a comprehensive media organization that provides media services to the community and businesses through public broadcasting and multi-media production services. Licensed to the University of South Florida, WUSF Public Media has been serving the public interest through programming, educational outreach and community partnerships for 50 years. For more information, visit www.wusf.org.
Photo Credit: Susanna Hancock