WUKY, 91.3 FM to Air “Song Travels” With Michael Feinstein on HD-2 Channel

LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 11, 2012) – WUKY, the University of Kentucky’s NPR station, will air “Song Travels” with Michael Feinstein on its HD-2 channel Sundays at noon beginning April 15; HD-2 can be found online at www.wuky.org as well.  The renowned "Ambassador of the Great American Songbook" and five-time Grammy nominated performer Michael Feinstein hosts “Song Travels,” a 13-week series examining how popular standards and show tunes have evolved through the years. From the production team that brought you “Piano Jazz,” the program expands upon the genre of American Popular Song and re-imagines it for a new century.

Each week a new guest joins Feinstein for intimate explorations of the journeys of songs and the artists who perform them. The line-up spans the musical spectrum, from Liza Minnelli and Bette Midler, to violinist Joshua Bell and Pink Martini pianist Thomas Lauderdale, and United Kingdom current pop sensation Rumer, bringing the Great American Songbook to a whole new audience. Each guest shares their passion for the songs through solo performances and duets with Feinstein, illustrating the continuing development of the songs across time.

Gerry Weston, general manager of WICN in Worcester, Mass., describes the show as "Upbeat, witty and engaging conversation from two folks who definitely know what they're talking about! A very nice balance between talk and music."

 "It takes the tradition of American Song and gives it a fresh twist, a new face, a new spin -- something that can relate to a younger audience. It's up close and personal as if you, the listener, are sitting down and chatting with these people," said Ruth Phinney, WXXI program director in Rochester, N.Y.

The WUKY HD-2 schedule includes NPR’s signature talk shows (Talk of the Nation & Diane Rehm) plus an assortment of great weekend programs like the new “Song Travels” series from NPR.  HD-2 is now easily accessible via WUKY’s iPhone and Android apps as well as online at WUKY.org or over the air with an HD radio.

WUKY 91.3FM enlightens, inspires, and entertains its audience through the creation and presentation of the highest quality non-commercial radio programming. Through comprehensive, unbiased news coverage, unique musical offerings, and community partnerships, WUKY fosters civic development, celebrates cultural diversity, and advances the mission of the University of Kentucky.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Gail Bennett, (859) 257-7049; wukgail@uky.edu