Honoree

Ron Della Chiesa

Ron Della Chiesa is one of the most beloved figures in Boston public broadcasting. With a career spanning more than four decades, he has shared his talents and extensive knowledge of both classical and jazz music. You’ll find Ron hosting the popular live broadcasts of The Boston Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Hall and at Tanglewood on WCRB. You can also hear his Strictly Sinatra and Music America programs on WPLM.

Ron made his radio debut at age 10 on a children’s program in his hometown of Quincy, Massachusetts. He joined WGBH in 1966 as a part time news and promotional announcer for Channel 2. Before long, Ron found himself behind the microphone of an afternoon classical music show, an afternoon jazz show, a late-night jazz show and an overnight show.

Ron continued to explore the relationship between classical, jazz and other musical forms, expanding his lineup to showcase live performances and classical programming on The Classical Hour, Great Voices and live broadcasts of The Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Attracting an impressive roster of in-studio guests, this lover of “Heifetz, Fiedler, Callas, and Leontyne” as well as “Sinatra, Shearing, Torme and Cleo” is as likely to be on the air talking painting with pal Tony Bennett as discussing the golden age of coloratura with soprano Phyllis Curtin.

It is Ron’s broad musical expertise, embracing both classical music and jazz, that keeps him in demand both on the air and off. He is also noted for his many lectures on opera, classical music, jazz and the Great American Songbook. He and his wife Joyce make their home in Boston; they enjoy traveling and attending opera performances around the world.