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This is a place where our classical hosts, interns and artists can share their stories, viewpoints and point of view on topics related to classical music and the arts in general. Come back to this page often to read the latest and share your comments.

Young musicians on the new series, 'In the Key of Z: Classical'

(foreground) Steve Johnson and Katie Epner, (background) Ashley Park and Helena Dixon on "Connections with Evan Dawson" on Wednesday, March 5, 2025
George Yeadon
/
WXXI News
(foreground) Steve Johnson and Katie Epner, (background) Ashley Park and Helena Dixon on "Connections with Evan Dawson" on Wednesday, March 5, 2025

"Born after the year 2000, Gen Z takes a new approach to everything by default. But how does this contrast against the long-established canon of music history?"
That question is the focus of a new WXXI digital-first series, "In the Key of Z: Classical," hosted by Classical 91.5 host Steve Johnson. The series explores the insight and celebrates the talent of five area high school students who excel in classical music performance.
This hour, we talk with several of those students about their craft, their take on classical music, and their goals for the future.

Our guests:

Copyright 2025 WXXI News

Evan Dawson joined WXXI in January 2014 after working at 13WHAM-TV, where he served as morning news anchor. He was hired as a reporter for 13WHAM-TV in 2003 before being promoted to anchor in 2007.
Megan Mack
Megan Mack the producer of Connections with Evan Dawson and Unleashed: The Pet Show. She joined the WXXI News team from WHEC-TV, where she produced newscasts and The Olympic Zone, and from the University of Rochester, where she served as an assistant director of public relations. Her background extends to television sports and entertainment, and to communications and social media management for non-profits.