We wish a fond farewell to KUSC host Jim Svejda, who has announced his retirement after many years on the air. Jim has been one of the most familiar voices in SoCal classical music for decades, and the station officially announced the news this week. Here’s the release, or you can read the original here. (Thank you, Jim!)
After 43 years at KUSC, Jim Svejda is retiring. Jim has made a lasting impact in the world of classical music. His last show will be Friday, February 18 and a replacement host will be named soon.
Over the decades, Jim has delighted Classical KUSC listeners with his meticulously crafted commentaries on diverse composers, conductors and artists as well as a wide range of other subjects that attract his musical fancy.
Every weeknight, loyal listeners have joined him to hear his engaging musical choices and commentary. Jim has also hosted and produced the syndicated radio series “The Record Shelf” which has been carried by public radio stations in the U.S
“Jim Svejda: Between the Notes” was chosen as one of a handful of shorts featured during the LA Shorts International Film Festival. The film celebrates Svejda’s 40th anniversary with KUSC and also recognizes his status as one of the most knowledgeable classical music hosts in the country.
Directed by Daniel Zucker, with a cast including renowned concert violinist Anne Akiko Meyers, composer Thomas Newman and film director Nicholas Meyer, the short documentary highlights Svejda’s contributions to the classical music world during his time at KUSC.
Absolutely caught off guard with hearing of jim svejda’s retirement. Another institution of so cal gone.😕 I raised my children with his show and now as full grown adults they are classical music lovers because of him. It makes me cry. What a drag .🙁☹️😔
I’m just SO HAPPY to find KUSC is scrambling to find a new Evening Classics host because the inimitable Mr. Svejda has RETIRED. Yes! Go forth in Retirement from what must have been quite a heavy lift programming responsibility. It hurts to lose America’s premier classical music presenter, a loss diminished somewhat knowing Mr. Svejda leaves for other pursuits. Maybe he’ll turn up as 1st Chair Oboe in his local community symphony! Gone from the big show, always appreciated, never forgotten. ☮🧡⚡🎷🎙
What a unique broadcaster Mr. Svejda has been. The voice alone is as golden as you can get. The magical poise and serenity are a master class in how to do radio. Although it was not his area of study, his deep knowledge of the whole repertoire would rival even the most venerable music professor. He drew many into the wonders of classical music, a mission he seemed made for. He helped keep classical music alive in Southern California, gracefully and with passion. A very noble and necessary cause. He brought a sense of gravity that was compelling. My late father could rarely get through an evening without at least an hour or two of Jim. I hope he finds his future as rewarding. I hope KUSC continues the same commitment whoever they choose.