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Celebrate the Music of the Olympics with Classical WSMR

Yuri Kadobnov
/
NPR/AFP/Getty Images

You're probably not going to make it over to Sochi to see the Winter Olympics in person...but you can enjoy the music of the games on Classical WSMR.

Each day WSMR will have musical impressions of the games, as well as the host and participating countries.  You’ll hear famous musical postcards along with some of the great classical music used in the figure skating competition. 

Starting today and each weekday during the Olympics, WSMR will have a different “theme” highlighting some of the events or countries that are participating in the Winter Games. There will also be updates on the latest medal winners at various times during the day (don't worry, you'll be warned in advance so your prime time viewing isn't disturbed!).

Today, in advance of the Opening Ceremonies, you'll hear pieces used at previous Olympic games, including "Olimpiade," Handel's "Music for the Royal Fireworks" and John Williams' "Summon the Heroes."

On Monday, February 10, it's an All Russian Hour starting at 3:00 p.m., including a complete performance of Scheherazade.

Tuesday, February 11, is International Day featuring music from many of the participating countries including the United States, Iceland, Austria, Romania, England, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Mexico, Hungary, Lithuania, France, Italy, Finland, Sweden, Poland, Norway, and of course, the host country, Russia.

Wednesday, February 12, will feature music used in the pairs skating competition.

Thursday, February 13 is a "Snow Day," with music that ties in with snow and winter.

Friday, February 14 is a double celebration of both the Winter Olympics and Valentine’s Day. There will be lots of love themed music along with music from the various countries participating in the winter games.

The Olympic music will take a break for WSMR's regular weekend programming, but will resume on Monday, February 17 with lots of American music in celebration of Presidents' Day.

Tuesday, February 18 will feature music from the various cities that have hosted the Olympics over the years.

On Wednesday, February 19, it's music and performers that will be featured during the Winter International Arts Festival in Sochi, which this year coincides with the Olympics. 

Thursday, February 20 will highlight music used during one of the most popular events - the free program of the women's ice skating competition.

WSMR will wrap up its special on Friday, February 21, with a recap of the games with lots of great music and significant moments from Sochi.

Celebrate the winter games with Classical WSMR 89.1 in Sarasota, 103.9 FM in Tampa, and online at WSMR.org.

Mark Schreiner is the assistant news director and intern coordinator for WUSF News.
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