Alvarez Named MD, Classical WRR 101.1/Dallas
• North Texas public media organization KERA welcomes Emilio Alvarez as Classical Music Director & Host on Classical non-comm WRR 101.1/Dallas.
“The search for WRR’s new Music Director has been extensive,” says Kurt Rongey, APD of WRR. “We took considerable time and effort to find someone with extensive musical knowledge, a fresh approach to bringing repertoire to radio and an understanding of the arts and music culture of our state. Emilio is that person. We’re excited for audiences to discover not only the refinement he brings to the playlists, but the commitment he has to connecting with listeners in North Texas.”
A lifelong cellist, Alvarez joins WRR after spending the last five years at KMFA/Austin, and before that, KRTU/San Antonio. He has also spent the last decade flying aerial cameras for events and programs including the Super Bowl, Fixer Upper, Paul McCartney concerts and more. “I’m so excited for this opportunity,” says Alvarez. “WRR has an incredible legacy spanning over 100 years, and I’m so thrilled to help build its future and serve our North Texas community.”
Based on his expertise in programming music for culturally diverse audiences, in 2022 Alvarez was selected to consult for a study conducted by radio stations across the country called “Taking Another Listen.” In the study, he urges Classical radio stations, especially, to continually reconsider how they can better serve their communities as a whole. “Public radio should accurately represent the cultural growth within the community it serves,” says Alvarez. “As the culture grows and evolves, so should the music.”
Alvarez will host The Homestretch, from 3-7pm, beginning July 31. Also starting July 31, two other WRR hosts will expand their weekend on-air presence: David Ginder will host the Saturday Evening Concert from 8pm to midnight, and the Sunday Evening Concert from 7pm to midnight, and longtime WRR talent Nikki Velonis will host Saturday Classical and Sunday Classical, weekends from 1 to 6pm.
