WHRO FM is excited to welcome Diane Jones as a new classical announcer. Diane is a radio host, composer, and performer. After 16 years on the air in Syracuse, NY, she says she is excited to join WHRO and call Norfolk her home. Diane is also the creator, host, and producer of Feminine Fusion, a nationally syndicated weekly program highlighting women in the classical music world. Now in its 10th season, Feminine Fusion was recognized for excellence by the National Endowment for the Arts.
As a composer, she has had her music performed and recorded by Trio Casals, the London Symphony Orchestra, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, trombonist Haim Avitsur, and Samba Laranja. This year, she has been commissioned by the Syracuse City Ballet and the Auburn Symphony, with previous commissions from the Matilda Joslyn Gage Foundation and the Syracuse International Film Festival. She is featured as both composer and performer on four Samba Laranja CDs, and her four piano trios were recorded by Trio Casals for their "MOTO" series of CDs, which have been broadcast throughout the US and internationally.
She also completed five residencies in Syracuse-area middle schools, providing students with the opportunity to experience and influence the composition process, along with the excitement of presenting a world premiere.
“Not only is Diane an experienced classical radio host," said Wayla Chambo, program director of WHRO FM, "she lives and breathes this music as an active composer and performer. Her depth of knowledge and warm, conversational hosting style make her a great fit to round out our on-air lineup. I’m thrilled to welcome her to WHRO and to introduce her to our wonderful family of music lovers!”
Diane said she is also thrilled to join WHRO and explore her new hometown.
“I’m so excited to be joining the team at WHRO. They've already made me feel like one of their own," Diane said. "And having the opportunity to share incredible music on the air is a privilege. When I stop to consider that every time someone turns on their radio they are inviting me into their lives, even for a short time - that is both exciting and humbling. Coming to Norfolk feels like coming home, and I can’t wait to experience the arts community, to explore the area, and to share a bit of time with the WHRO listeners.”