Two Davids...and an Ottorino

Blue Lake Public Radio | By Foley Schuler

Published July 8, 2026 at 6:01 PM EDT

Left: Ottorino Respighi; Center: David Diamond; Right: David Zinman

July 9 is one of those days filled with historical significance where music is concerned. On Thusday afternoon's Classical Music with Foley Schuler we'll celebrate three high profile birthdays, as we hear several key works by two great composers born on that day—modern Italian master Otorino Respighi and David Diamond, one of the leading American composers of his generation. As thursday also marks the 90th birth of esteemed conductor David Zinman, and we'll celebrate with several of his performances on the podium as well.

You can hear Foley Schuler's musical selections—and stories behind the music—every weekday afternoon on Blue Lake Public Radio.

Foley Schuler

Encouraged by creative parents, Foley began his music career at age 7, studying violin with Jean Manning at North Muskegon Public Schools. As a Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp camper, he became Blue Lake Public Radio’s first high school intern. Foley earned an English Literature degree from Hope College, and Masters in Fine Arts degree in Creative Writing from the Warren Wilson College. He has performed with the West Michigan (formerly West Shore) Symphony; served on the English Department faculty at Muskegon Community College, and been the Music, Art & Theatre reviewer for the Muskegon Chronicle. He follows his love of the arts around the globe, but says, “There is no place like the Blue Lake setting, sharing extraordinary music with our listeners.” Foley hosts Blue Lake Public Radio’s weekday classical music from 1 to 4 p.m. and “Sunday on Blue Lake”.

See stories by Foley Schuler