All Aboard for the the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Credit all photos to Bill Rockwell Cumberland, once Maryland’s second largest city, has since faded into a sort of quiet inconspicuousness. But the town, located at the juncture of the Northern Branch of the Potomac and Willis Creek, is surprisingly interesting for a number of reasons. Much of its important history is based on its being both a starting point and a terminus. First, prehistoric animals blazed a trail north through the mountains, then came prehistoric man. Later, a Native American by the name of Nemacolin showed early White settlers the way north, which would also be followed by young George Washington and General Braddock on his way to take Fort Duquesne from the French. Washington in particular had a large presence in Cumberland, first as a...
Christopher Hahn takes a final bow with Pittsburgh Opera (photo credit: David Bachman) 'A Christopher Hahn Retrospective' Saturday on WQED-FM For 26 years, Christopher Hahn has shaped not only what happens on Pittsburgh Opera's stages, but who we are as a company. His remarkable tenure as General Director comes to a close this month when he officially retires. Recently, he sat down for an in-depth conversation with WQED-FM's Anna Singer. He shared his early memories of opera, his favorite Pittsburgh Opera productions, his plans for the future, and much, much more. WQED-FM is broadcasting "A Christopher Hahn Retrospective", this Saturday afternoon, June 13th at 1PM. The show includes not just his conversation with Anna, but over a dozen of Christopher's favorite musical highlights. Tune in via the radio at 89.3 FM this Saturday or listen online at WQEDFM.org . Your support helps bring opera to life in Pittsburgh — make your gift here today. D o...