Frequently Asked Questions about Classical California

What is Classical California?  We’re a non-profit, listener-supported media company with the largest classical music audience in the U.S., with over 1.6 million monthly listeners tuning in. Our mission? To share a fresh, inspiring, and relevant classical experience that truly connects. Whether it’s sparking curiosity in the next generation, spotlighting local arts, or simply adding beauty to your day, we’re here to make classical music personal and powerful. 

With deep roots in San Francisco (KDFC) and Los Angeles (KUSC), our hosts across the state bring this rich tradition to life across airwaves, streaming, and digital platforms. And with seven original streaming channels, from family-friendly to film-score-inspired—we’re reshaping what classical can be. 

Why did you create Classical California?  By uniting KUSC and KDFC under one bold, statewide identity, Classical California makes it easier for everyone to explore, discover, and fall in love with classical music. In the coming months, we will launch a single online home at classicalcalifornia.org, a Classical California smartphone app, and a brand that reflects the spirit of our state: creative, curious, and completely un-stuffy. The KDFC and KUSC specific websites and apps will ultimately be retired. 

Outside of our main cities, the rest of California does not have a 24-hour classical station.  We’re now celebrating the arts across the state. 

Does this mean there’s only one station now?  You’ll still hear your favorite hosts and music from our broadcast centers in both San Francisco and Los Angeles, but on a unified station across our platforms.  Our voices are united to celebrate classical music across California. Whether you're listening from the Bay Area, SoCal, or beyond, you’ll enjoy the same high-quality programming and regional flavor from both ends of the state.  (The hosts have been heard across the stations for years.  Now they have come together on one Classical California station heard everywhere.) 

Will my donation still support my local station?  Yes! Your generous support still helps power the station for listeners in your community. Donations ensure we can continue broadcasting from our hubs in San Francisco and Los Angeles, and expand to serve new listeners across the state. As we grow, so do the opportunities to bring you even more music, events, and stories that matter. 

What are some of the things Classical California is doing statewide?  We’re building something exciting: 

• We’re building on our new streaming channels like Arcade (video game-inspired), Glissando (for families), and the Ultimate 101

• There will be community partnerships and new on-demand content 

• Enjoy innovative storytelling that reflects the vibrancy of California’s music scene  All with one goal: to be the most welcoming, engaging place to connect with classical music. 

Who owns Classical California?  Classical California is licensed by the University of Southern California. We’re entirely funded by listeners like you and local community partners. We no longer received a $1.1 million grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Your support keeps the music alive. 

This is an ongoing new fundraising scenario.  This is not a one-time solution.  Fundraising is going well.  As always, any surplus is allocated to our reserves and endowment to ensure a stronger financial future in the event of future fundraising challenges.