WTJU hosting Classical Marathon, featuring local student ensembles

The Trumpers and MAGAs, you may remember, pulled funding from public TV and public radio earlier this year, no good reason for doing it, just being vindictive clowns.

The impact on the fiscal-year budget at WTJU-91.1 FM in Charlottesville, which will host its annual Classical Marathon next week, beginning Monday, Dec. 8, and running through Sunday, Dec. 14: $152,000.

“Despite the financial challenges ahead, we’re not giving up,” WTJU General Manager Nathan Moore said. “WTJU has always been a trusted companion and cultural resource. With community support, we’ll continue bringing timeless music to listeners for decades to come.”

The role that public broadcasting plays in local communities is highlighted by one neat thing WTJU does with its Classical Marathon.

This year’s event will feature five nights of live performances from local student ensembles:

• Monday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m.: Charlottesville High School Choir
• Tuesday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m.: 1 Hz Sharp (UVA Chamber Music)
• Wednesday, Dec. 10, 7 p.m.: Albemarle High School String Ensemble
• Thursday, Dec. 11, 7 p.m.: Albemarle High School Choral Ensemble
• Friday, Dec. 12,  7 p.m.: Charlottesville High School Orchestra

“Charlottesville is home to some of the most vibrant young musicians in Virginia,” Moore said. “Featuring our high school choirs and orchestras on live radio not only highlights their artistry. It also underscores how deeply classical music is woven into our community.”

WTJU encourages community members to support the station during this critical time. Donations will help sustain classical programming, educational initiatives, and WTJU’s long-standing commitment to making the arts accessible to all.

Gifts can be made at WTJU.net/donate.