Five O’Clock Favorite
Every weekday at 5:00 PM PT
Every weekday at 5:00 PM PT, All Classical Radio and host Christa Wessel invite listeners to be part of the programming. During the Five O’Clock Favorite, you’ll hear a listener-suggested piece of music along with a personal story about their choice. With pieces that are fun and familiar, music for remembrance and reflection, and everything in between, the Five O’Clock Favorite is a perfect way to ease your commute, end your workday, or start off your evening soundtrack on All Classical Radio.

Your Host
Christa Wessel
Weekdays at 5:00, you’ll find me in my happy place on the radio: sharing your Five O’Clock Favorite. This special program is an opportunity for me to celebrate listeners’ memories and favorite pieces of classical music. Our stories connect us to each other, and this daily segment allows us to hear what’s in the hearts of our friends and neighbors. I hope you’ll submit your suggestion for a future Five O’Clock Favorite!

Submit your favorite piece:
Suggestions are easiest to honor if they’re 20 minutes or less.
Many people know Appalachian Spring as an orchestral piece by Aaron Copland. I know it as an integral piece of American Dance History. "Appalachian Spring" originated as a ballet composed by Aaron Copland and choreographed by Martha Graham; it was originally commissioned as a dance piece for her company and was well received at its debut in 1944. The Martha Graham Dance Company is the oldest dance company in the U. S. celebrating 100 years this season. They are currently touring the US and recently performed at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland. During that performance, highlights from Appalachian Spring were performed with excerpts of letters from Martha to Aaron, read aloud by the Artistic Director; giving light to the creative collaboration that resulted in this masterpiece. Martha Graham is one of my favorite American Dance Pioneers, and this pivotal piece contributes to Aaron Copland being one of my favorite composers!