It is with both joy and a touch of sadness that we announce the retirement of Robin Pressman, who signed off from Classical California July 31, 2025.
Robin’s journey with us began on September 24, 2014, but her passion for radio and music runs much deeper. Before joining Classical California, Robin had a rich career in documentary films, working alongside her husband, Peter Cooper, a talented film and commercial director in New York and Los Angeles.
Her story took a turn when she and Peter moved to Sonoma County, where an exciting opportunity arose to join the launch of a new NPR station, KRCB. Robin volunteered right away, managing the board and quickly launching a five-hour Saturday afternoon folk music program that was an instant hit.
Her talent and dedication didn’t go unnoticed, and within a year, she became the program director at the station. It was there that she caught the attention of Bill Lueth, Classical California's Vice President of Marketing and Sponsorship, who later recruited her to join the Classical California KUSC and KDFC family – a move she is forever grateful for. Though Robin is primarily heard on our sister station Classical California KDFC, you've heard her on Classical California Fridays, hosting the ever-popular Great Escape stream, filling in for Classical California KUSC hosts, and so much more.
Robin’s impact on Classical California, and on all of us, has been profound. Her warmth, expertise, and dedication have been evident in every program she’s hosted, and her legacy will undoubtedly live on through the airwaves and in the hearts of listeners.
Robin passed along to me these words about what comes next:
Working with Classical California and all our hosts and staff has been the dream of a lifetime. But now it's time to take care of my health, hiking with Maizy, spending time with Fred and great and granddaughters, traveling, reading all the books that have piled up over the years, tending to my garden, and probably do a little volunteering on our local station. Many thanks for so many great years of music and camaraderie to everyone at Classical California.
Please join me in congratulating Robin on her well-earned retirement and in celebrating her remarkable career. Thank you for everything.
Stream The Great Escape with Robin Pressman
Whether you need that musical deep breath, or need to push the musical reset button, we have your Great Escape at the touch of a button. Hosted by Robin Pressman.
