Cincinnati talent on the air

You may as well keep your dial on WGUC-FM (90.9) all day Saturday, beginning with Cincinnati talent showcased at 9 a.m., through the Metropolitan Opera broadcast of "Giulio Cesare" at 1:30 p.m.

The show "From the Top" that was taped at Music Hall on Feb. 20, will be heard around the country over 250 public radio stations at 9 a.m.

"From the Top," hosted by Christopher O'Riley, is a showcase of the nation's best and brightest pre-collegiate musicians. Local talents appearing on this broadcast include the May Festival Youth Chorus; Loveland violinist Sophie Pariot, 14; Christoph Sassmannshaus, 17, a cellist; 10-year-old pianist Kevin Bao of Mason; and three saxophonists from West Chester: Thomas Kraynak, Morgan Ferris and Tom Turner (the Fresh Winds Trio).

Then, it's the much-heralded production of the Met's "Giulio Cesare," an opera by Handel. Starring in the title role is David Daniels, pictured, a CCM alum, who has been studying with CCM professor Karen Lykes for several years. But listen hard, and you'll also hear Michael Maniaci (former student of prof. David Adams) in the role of Nireno, and Wayne Tigges (former student of prof. Thomas Baresel) singing the role of Achilla.

And you don't want to miss the gorgeous Ruth Ann Swenson, pictured with Daniels, singing a performance as Cleopatra that has received rapturous reviews. She's coming off of chemotherapy for breast cancer, and was recently quoted as saying she felt the Met was phasing her out.

Here's something else you don't want to miss: In two weeks, Ruth Ann will be singing a recital for the Dayton Opera Star Gala in the spectacular Schuster Center. She performs at 8 p.m. May 4 and at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 6. Click here for ticket info.