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Sharing releases, present and past, to brighten your day. WXXI Classical has its eyes and ears on the latest releases from classical artists working today. When we come across a story or a release we think you might enjoy, we’ll be sharing it with you on CD Spotlight. You’ll learn more about the artists online at WXXI Classical, and you’ll hear selections from these artists on FM 91.5. CD Spotlight shares new releases by artists that you’ll want to know and some by great artists and ensembles that deserve to be in the spotlight again.

CD Spotlight: Corazon by John-Henry Crawford

Album cover of Corazon by John-Henry Crawford
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Album cover of Corazon by John-Henry Crawford

Cellist John-Henry Crawford was in Mexico, competing in the IX International Carlos Prieto Cello Competition, when he fell in love. It was that trip when he began his romance with Latin America – the culture, the history, the language and above all, the music. Crawford’s brand new CD, Corazón is a testament to that passion.

The CD is hot off the presses, and filled with pieces by some of the great Latin American composers: Manuel Poncé, Astor Piazzolla, Heitor Villa-Lobos, Leo Brouwer and more, spanning over 140 years. His collaborators are pianist Victor Santiago Asuncion and guitarist Jiji, who was just in town to perform with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.

A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Crawford is no stranger to public radio listeners; as a teenager, he made two appearances on From the Top. Now’s he’s playing in recitals around the country, garnering glowing reviews wherever he performs. Corazón is his second release and Henry says, “As the title suggests, this music pulls at the heartstrings and exudes romance and passion." It is a perfect love letter.

And if you were wondering, John-Henry Crawford won that competition in Mexico.

A Strong Memorial baby and Greece Arcadia grad, Julia Figueras was the Music Director and mid-day host for WXXI Classical until June 30, 2023 when she retired after more than 26 years of service. She also hosted the award-winning monthly interview/performance show, Backstage Pass.