Valerie Kahler named ‘Performance Today’ host

American Public Media announced Thursday that Valerie Kahler will take over as host of Performance Today.

Fred Child, who has hosted the program for 25 years, plans to step down in October. Kahler, currently a host and producer for APM’s Classical 24 and a guest host for Performance Today, will begin hosting the classical music program full-time in November, APM said in a press release.

“I’m thrilled to step into the role of host for Performance Today, a show I’ve admired since my earliest days in radio for its smarts, charm, and talent for sharing classical music at its living, breathing, occasionally mischievous — and always excellent — best,” Kahler said in the release. “I’m deeply honored to follow in the footsteps of broadcast legends and dear friends Fred Child and Martin Goldsmith, whose vision and voices brought the show to life and gave it its heart. I look forward to carrying their legacy with care and curiosity.”

Kahler started in public radio in 1989 as a volunteer at KNAU in Flagstaff, Ariz., and went on to become a classical music host and music director. She joined APM in 2001.

 “I’m thrilled for Performance Today, for our stations and listeners, that my talented friend Valerie Kahler will succeed me as host,” Child said in the release. “Valerie is not just an accomplished radio host, a marvelous cellist, and a beautiful singer. She’s one of my all-time favorite storytellers. Her passion for music and her joy in connecting with audiences come through every time she’s present, in person or on radio. I wholeheartedly welcome Valerie Kahler as the next host of Performance Today.”