Interlochen Public Radio is proud to launch "Intermezzo" on April 21, 2025.
It's a daily broadcast and podcast that offers an engaging way for young audiences and curious minds of all ages to relate to classical music.
Hosted by Classical IPR’s Christy L’Esperance, each episode of "Intermezzo" is a short program that explores classical music featuring the voices and ideas of young co-hosts.
"I want listeners to make connections to our world through the lens of classical music so that we can better understand ourselves," says Classical IPR host Christy L'Esperance. “'Intermezzo' is about sparking curiosity. It’s a daily invitation to think about music and life in new ways, all while listening to something beautiful."
Each weekly theme unfolds in five acts over five weekdays, diving into topics such as the science of sound, humor in music and how music expresses emotion.
New episodes air every weekday at 7:30 a.m. ET on Classical IPR and can be streamed from the IPR website, IPR mobile app, smart speakers and smart TVs.
Daily episodes are available on demand on the "Intermezzo" website, as well as Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other major podcast platforms.
Designed with young listeners in mind
Perfect for the morning ride to school or a thoughtful moment before bedtime, "Intermezzo" is a bite-sized show that packs insight, humor and heart into just a few minutes each day.
Young guest hosts offer their perspectives and help younger listeners hear voices like their own reflected in the world of classical music.
"Christy L'Esperance is the ideal host for this new program," says IPR music director Amanda Sewell. "She's a classical radio veteran, and between her years of teaching in a private piano studio and raising what she calls her own 'ginormous family,' there's nobody better suited to host this show."
Bonus content for further exploration
Interactive features such as daily trivia questions and riddles invite listeners to participate by texting their answers to Classical IPR. Those who answer correctly are celebrated with a shoutout in Friday’s episode.
Each episode of "Intermezzo" is paired with online extras — YouTube videos, full music recordings, and more — designed to deepen listeners’ engagement and encourage discovery beyond the broadcast.
