Classical Music Host

Universities of Wisconsin • Madison, WI

5d • Hybrid

About The Position

Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) seeks a warm, engaging classical music host for its statewide music network. This person will produce and host a live, three-hour morning drivetime show each weekday. The host will also assist with programming music for the show and will produce content for WPR’s digital platforms. WPR Music presents thirteen hours of locally-hosted classical music each weekday, along with locally-hosted classical, folk, and world music on weekends. The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of and passion for classical music, artists, and recordings, from core repertory to crossover and other related music. This host possesses the experience and aptitude to create appealing, audience-focused programs, conduct occasional interviews, operate broadcast equipment, and connect with state and local music communities. Technical training will be provided. This position reports to the WPR Music Program Director. This is a full-time, 40-hour-a-week position. This position is Ongoing/Renewable. The live on-air shift is 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM Monday through Friday. This host will also voice track the 6:00 AM hour of music each weekday. The typical work day would be 6:30 AM - 2:30 PM. The host will be expected to host the live daily show in the studio. A schedule that includes some remote work at an offsite, non-campus work location is possible for hours outside of the live show. This position can be located at our Madison, La Crosse, or Eau Claire bureaus. Remote work requires an approved flexible work arrangement (FWA). A FWA requires successful candidates to possess their own high-speed internet and phone to perform the work on a university provided computer. Per University policy, transportation between home and assigned work location is not payable/reimbursable and will be at the expense of the employee. It is expected that employees will make individual arrangements for transportation adequate to meet position responsibilities and essential job functions. Information about UW-Madison Driver Authorization can be found at https://businessservices.wisc.edu/managing-risk/driver-authorization-and-insurance/driver-authorization/.

Requirements

• 2 or more years of experience as a radio host, or in related broadcast or digital hosting.
• Substantial knowledge of classical music titles, composers and performers.
• Ability to deliver on‑air content in a clear, engaging, and audience‑centered manner that reflects the station’s tone and supports listener connection.
• Experience/familiarity with audio production and related software systems, including on-air automation systems and music database software.
• Ability to work effectively and independently in a deadline-driven, public-facing environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in classical music public radio or other nonprofit radio broadcasting.
• Experience programming classical music for broadcast.
• Experience producing digital content (articles, interviews, podcasts, etc.).
• Experience performing classical music, or working with classical ensembles or other performing arts organizations.
• An Associate's Degree in the study of music, liberal arts, theater and/or communications, or equivalent experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Delivers on-air content for various platforms that may include facilitating on-air conversations and/or providing informational content for audiences
• May represent the unit at public events, participating in promotional, community, and fundraising events as necessary
• Voice tracks the 6:00 AM hour of music for each weekday.
• Develops and contributes content that may include interviewing sources, programming music, writing stories and completing other necessary production tasks as assigned to create content
• Serves as a resource for questions and projects
• Maintains familiarity with studio equipment and applicable technology for production and/or broadcast
• Tests and operates studio broadcasting technology and equipment

Benefits

• generous paid time off
• competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance
• tax-advantaged savings accounts
• participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree