How do you feel about classical music?

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

When I’m reading or studying, for example.

When I’m relaxing, sleeping or just “hanging out.

When I’m paying attention solely to the music

When does listening to music bring you the most joy?

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

I regularly attend live shows and can’t get enough of them.

Do you enjoy live music?

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

I’m open to new things, but there are classics for a reason.

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.

I'd like to learn more about music from:

Take a 2 minute quiz to share your taste

We'll recommend YourClassical programming just for you

Discover the power and joy of classical music

Man playing violin

Start the quiz

We can help you find classical music you'll love

Before Bach's Birthday Bash 2022

Bach's birthday comes around every year on March 21. The occasion calls out for a celebration of this most remarkable of musical talents, and Minnesota Public Radio's Michael Barone (host of Pipedreams) decided that Johann Sebastian Bach deserved something special. A number of years ago, he and colleagues from the local chapter of the American Guild of Organists arranged a Bach's Birthday Bash, and the idea blossomed.

When Bach's birthday doesn't fall on a Saturday, the celebration is held early and becomes Before Bach's Birthday Bash. BBBB events have become something of a local tradition, with enthusiasts from all parts of the state participating or just listening.

This year's activities featured five free hourlong public concerts of Bach's music, presented at five venues and churches on or near Summit Avenue during the morning and afternoon of Saturday, March 19.  

This year’s BBBB was presented in conjunction with the Fargo-Moorhead Bach Choir. Members of the Red River Valley Chapter of the American Guild of Organists performed Bach’s 

, and various organ works in the context of a Lutheran Vespers featuring the the 45-rank Holtkamp organ at Trinity Lutheran.

Co-sponsors included the Twin Cities Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, Bach Society of Minnesota, National Lutheran Choir, St. Paul Conservatory of Music, University of Minnesota School of Music and YourClassical Minnesota Public Radio. 

The first hour of the program was aired live by YourClassical MPR and host Michael Barone. Listen to the concert now!

Before Bach's Birthday Bash 2022 - Program

Building upon a curiosity which began in his teens, Michael Barone has been involved with the pipe organ for more than 40 years. As host and senior executive producer of Pipedreams, produced and distributed by American Public Media, he is recognized nationally for his outstanding contributions to the world of organ music.  Pipedreams began in 1982 and remains the only nationally distributed weekly radio program exploring the art of the pipe organ. Michael's talent and commitment have been recognized with numerous awards, including the American Guild of Organists President's Award in 1996, the Distinguished Service Award of the Organ Historical Society in 1997 and the 2001 ASCAP-Deems Taylor Award. In November 2002 he was selected for induction to the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame.  He also hosts broadcasts of the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and The New Releases on Minnesota Public Radio.


Michael Barone

On Saturday, March 19, YourClassical MPR celebrated Before Bach's Birthday Bash with Pipedreams host Michael Barone. Listen to our live broadcast of the first of five concerts in St. Paul now.


Listen: Celebrate Before Bach's Birthday Bash in St. Paul

Like this?

Like this?

Love the music?

Your Donation

We can help you find classical music you'll love