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JPR Classics is a place to come for all things classical in the State of Jefferson. We'll honor our rich classical heritage while looking to the future, showcasing inspired performances by the next generation of classical musicians. The classics live on JPR!

MET Opera Saturday Matinee Host Peter Allen passed away

Peter Allen (1920-2016)

The Metropolitan Opera mourns the death of Peter Allen, their radio announcer for 29 years. Peter became the host of the Metropolitan Opera Saturday Afternoon Radio Broadcasts on January 4, 1975, succeeding Milton Cross, who had been the series’ announcer since its inception in 1931. With his deep knowledge and love of opera, Peter was the enlivening host for our broadcasts until his retirement in 2004. In addition, he was a beloved colleague and friend to all the members of the company who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him. We extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends, and his many fans around the world for whom his voice was the singular voice of the Met.

Don Matthews received a B.A. in Music from Eastern Michigan University and a Masters in Vocal Performance from USC. He performed as a member of the San Francisco Opera chorus for three seasons.  He moved to Boston to study and became involved in radio, working at both WBUR and WGBH, where he was a producer for Robert J. Lurtsema.