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When I’m doing tasks like cooking, exercising or cleaning.

When I’m reading or studying, for example.

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I attend a few shows a year, but it’s not a large part of my life.

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I know what I like and rarely stray from my favorites.

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I relish discovering the new and unfamiliar.

When it comes to listening to music …

I like folk, bluegrass and more traditional forms.

If it’s improvised and cool, I’m there.

If I’m not listening to classical music, I’m listening to …

Rooted in Black music history in the Americas and worldwide.

Going beyond Western Europe traditions, often influenced by folk music.

Drawing from traditional music of the Middle East, Southeast Asia and more.

Delving into traditional music of Native Americans and other First Nations.

Surveying traditional music of Central and South America, and the Caribbean.

Exploring traditional music cultures from around the world.

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My Fair Lady

"The difference between a lady and a flower girl is not how she behaves, but how she is treated."

And with that realization, Eliza Doolittle's transformation — and liberation — is complete. Actress Helen Anker embodies that spirit in her feisty portrayal of the famous flower girl of this classic musical, 

Musical Director Andrew Cooke makes sure Eliza's "heart takes flight" in a lighter, brighter orchestration. And the two of them came to Classical MPR to perform "Wouldn't It Be Loverly" and "I Could Have Danced All Night," and to talk with me about this new production.

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Mill City Summer Opera: Tosca on the Mississippi

Guthrie Theater - My Fair Lady

John Birge has been hosting, producing and performing classical music for more than 25 years. Since 1997, he has been hosting on Minnesota Public Radio's Classical Music Service. He played French horn for the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestra and performed with them on their centennial tour of Europe in 1995. He was trained at the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Eastman School of Music and Interlochen Arts Academy.


John Birge

Actress Helen Anker and Musical Director Andrew Cooke visit John Birge in studio to perform a couple of songs from 'My Fair Lady' and to talk about the new production at the Guthrie Theater.


MPR photo/Luke Taylor

andrew cooke guthrie theater music director

My Fair Lady: She Thinks She's Got It!

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