About

Decomposed breaks down the stories that have shaped classical music, from secrets and scandals to acts of sheer genius. Hear these stories accompanied by the symphonies, operas and other masterpieces they inspired. Hosted by Jade Simmons, a classical concert pianist and storyteller, the first season of Decomposed takes on gender expectations, Cold War propaganda and the danger of putting your personal life on the stage. Produced in partnership with Classical Minnesota Public Radio.

Production Team

Jade Simmons

Simmons has been nicknamed “Classical Music’s #1 Maverick” for her habit of blending music, real time innovation and motivation. She has quickly become the face that represents the relevance of classical music while pushing the boundaries of its presentation. A concert artist whose played renowned halls, sought-after keynote speaker, best-selling author, and multimedia personality, Simmons is a fascinating and passionate storyteller with a strong understanding of the roots of classical music.

Tracy Mumford

Tracy is a development producer for American Public Media. She produces Decomposed, and other projects in the works. She produced and co-hosted the Peabody Award-winning podcast, 74 Seconds. She sometimes appears as an insect or a toenail fungus on Brains On.

Ryan Lohr

As the Director of Music and Special Projects for Classical MPR, Ryan oversees music programming for Classical 24, Classical MPR and YourClassical.org. Ryan has also worked for WQXR in NYC and was an intern for APM’s Performance Today. Ryan earned his Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in clarinet performance from the University of Michigan.

Kristina Lopez

Kristina is a Digital Producer for The Hilarious World of Depression, Brains On, and more. In 2017, she was an AIR New Voices scholar and led a panel at WNYC's Werk It Festival about her personal podcast, Plz Advise. In 2019, Kristina participated in Poynter's Leadership Academy for Women in Digital Media. She wants to be friends with your dog.