KGNU Music

In this interview with KGNU’s Sanford Baran, 17-year-old composer and pianist Vonn Vanier discusses his debut album Dawn, released May 16th on Montclair Records. Vonn shares how his early experience in the Grace Cathedral Choir and time spent self-studying during the pandemic shaped his unique musical voice. His work blends classical tradition with modern techniques, aiming for a balance between innovation and accessibility. Performed by ensembles like the Skywalker Symphony Orchestra and Quartet San Francisco, Vonn’s compositions reflect his dual passions for music and mathematics. As he looks ahead to college, he plans to continue developing both.

Reggae icon Barrington Levy joined KGNU’s Reggae Bloodlines to celebrate 50 years in music and preview his June 5th show at Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom in Denver. Known as the “Mellow Canary,” Levy discussed his roots, the power of reggae’s positive message, and his love for solo stage shows. He teased the debut of his new single “I Feel”, praised his longtime backing band Detour Posse, and shared updates on his Jamaican radio station, Rose’s FM. His message: reggae uplifts, teaches, and what’s meant for you, no one can take away.

In a captivating interview for KGNU, violist Richard O'Neill, cellist András Fejér of the renowned Takács Quartet, and celebrated pianist Marc-André Hamelin discuss their collaboration on the new Dvořák and Price Piano Quintets album, released on the Hyperion label. The ensemble reflects on the meaningful pairing of Dvořák’s beloved Piano Quintet No. 2 with Florence Price’s rediscovered Piano Quintet in A minor, noting shared influences from African-American musical traditions. They describe the challenges of interpreting Price’s little-performed work, especially in addressing notational inconsistencies. Recorded in the resonant and secluded Wyastone Concert Hall near the Welsh border, the project highlights their deep artistic rapport, technical precision, and the unique intimacy of chamber music. As the Takács Quartet celebrates its 50th anniversary, the musicians express gratitude for their evolving legacy, their connection to the Boulder community, and the enduring joy of making music with trusted collaborators. (Interview: 5/20/25)

Colorado-based musician Nicolette Andres joined KGNU to share live performances and insights into the rare tradition of Hardanger fiddle music from southwestern Norway. She discussed the instrument’s unique features, the foot-tapping rhythm essential for dancers, and her new album Hands, recorded in Boulder with support from the Alex Wilson Legacy Fund. Nicolette also spoke about the value of preserving folk traditions and how listeners can find her music on Bandcamp, at Paradise Found, and via nicoletteandres.com. (Local Gold: 4/30/25)

On April 30, 2025, KGNU welcomed Jamie and Davis Maynard of Stone Cottage Studios to discuss their newly expanded space on Boulder’s East Pearl Street and the studio’s evolving role in Colorado’s music scene. The father-son duo shared details about their intimate live performance sessions, artist development program Echoes from the Stone, and their efforts to support emerging musicians through high-quality video and audio production. With events like weekly open mics, curated concerts, and collaborative EPK sessions, Stone Cottage Studios is quickly becoming a vital hub for local and touring artists. The conversation also highlighted upcoming performances, including Nashville's The Young Fables on June 6th, part of their outdoor summer concert series. (Interview: 4/30/25)

Angel Corsi, a Front Range-based singer-songwriter, joined KGNU’s Morning Sound Alternative with Courtlyn Carpenter, Artistic Director of Soundpost Sessions, to discuss his upcoming performance in Longmont. Corsi will be featured in the Spotlight series, which pairs local artists with nationally touring acts—in this case, Tennessee’s Redd & The Paper Flowers. Carpenter shared that Soundpost Sessions, held at the Times Collaborative, is committed to high-quality, intimate shows that highlight storytelling and musicianship. Corsi spoke about his journey as an artist, his Chicano identity, and how his music reflects themes of grief, self-discovery, and resilience. He expressed gratitude for platforms like Soundpost that prioritize meaningful performance spaces. His song “Red Eye” touches on the tension between creative passion and everyday survival, offering listeners a raw glimpse into the life of an independent artist. (Local Gold: 4/8/25)

In this interview for KGNU, DJ Umo 1 speaks with Zee Desmondes, singer-songwriter and one half of the R&B/soul duo The Jack Moves. Zee reflects on his musical beginnings, from childhood guitar lessons to self-taught piano and recent vocal training. He shares how he met bandmate Teddy Becks through New York’s skate and music scenes, eventually forming The Jack Moves and releasing their debut single independently. The conversation highlights the group's DIY roots, their blend of soul and hip-hop influences, and their recent recording experience in Mexico City. Zee also touches on his creative process, musical inspirations—from Marvin Gaye to obscure soul acts. (Interview: 3/20/25)

In a recent interview with KGNU, singer-songwriter Lalo Hart discusses her musical journey, from growing up in Colorado to finding inspiration in Hawaii and the San Juan Islands. She reflects on how playing the ukulele opened the door to songwriting and how her husband’s encouragement helped her pursue music seriously. Hart shares two heartfelt songs, “It’s Just Love” and “Lay Me Down,” both capturing the spectrum of love and emotion that defines her work. (Studio Session: 4/4/25)

David Satori of Dirtwire recently joined KGNU’s Iris Berkeley to discuss the band’s upcoming Colorado tour, which includes stops in Durango, Buena Vista, Aspen, Boulder, and Fort Collins. Satori shared insights on the evolution of their latest album, Pyrochrome, and how the band is incorporating new songs into their live performances. He also spoke about his break from touring to focus on family, the inspiration behind Pyrochrome, and his ongoing work with Sunrise Studios Collective, a nonprofit that builds recording studios in underserved communities worldwide. Fans can catch Dirt Wire at the Boulder Theater on April 25th, with support from Banshee Tree and LVDY.

The Greater Boulder Youth Orchestra (GBYO), under the direction of Brian Jack, joined KGNU for a special studio session featuring performances by the winners of the GBYO Concerto Competition on flute, cello, and bassoon. Singers from the Boulder Children's Chorale also previewed their collaboration with GBYO, which will be highlighted in upcoming concerts at Mackey Auditorium and Lyons Middle and Senior High School. (4/18/25)