In Baltimore and beyond

Keeping Classical Music Alive

Friends of Baltimore Classical Radio Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the future vitality and excellence of classical music broadcasting through WBJC-FM and throughout our community.

Support Our Mission Learn More

♫

Preserve

Safeguarding classical music broadcasting for future generations.

◉

Promote

Expanding access and appreciation through education and outreach.

♙

Support

Providing resources that strengthen and enhance WBJC-FM.

♡

Connect

Bringing our community together through the power of music.

24/7 Classical Music

WBJC-FM remains one of the region's essential sources of curated classical programming.

Six States & D.C.

The station reaches listeners across Maryland and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region.

Community Focused

We support education, live performances, and meaningful community engagement.

A Secure Future

We work to ensure classical broadcasting remains trusted, independent, and accessible.

Our Story

Classical radio is worth protecting.

Once, Baltimore listeners could choose from several classical music stations. Today, very few remain. WBJC-FM continues to offer classical music around the clock, curated by an experienced professional staff.

WBJC-FM began broadcasting in 1951 and is licensed to Baltimore City Community College. Over time, institutional uncertainty and complex purchasing requirements created challenges that inspired Theodore Manekin to establish Friends of WBJC, Inc. in 2020.

The organization is now known as Friends of Baltimore Classical Radio Inc., reflecting a broader commitment to preserving classical music broadcasting throughout Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic.

Our Mission

Preserve, promote, and strengthen classical music broadcasting.

Preserve Classical Broadcasting

Increase audiences through educational outreach.
Guard against format changes that diminish classical programming.
Support appropriate staffing and station stability.
Explore operational or licensing solutions when needed.

Support Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic

Help provide essential equipment.
Support adequate funding for station operations.
Promote off-site recording and community engagement.
Encourage new programming and broader access.

Leadership

Experience in music, nonprofit service, law, and education.

Theodore Manekin

Nonprofit executive, fundraiser, public radio leader, and sound designer with four decades of experience.

Charles A. Borek, JD, MBA, CPA

Business and tax attorney and Certified Public Accountant with extensive nonprofit experience.

Stephen R. Elville, J.D., LL.M.

Estate planning attorney, nonprofit supporter, educator, and founder of the Elville Center for the Creative Arts.

Jed Gaylin

Conductor and music director with appointments across the United States and internationally.

Edward Polochick

Conductor, pianist, harpsichordist, educator, and founder of Concert Artists of Baltimore.

Support the Mission

Help keep classical music accessible.

Your support strengthens a community of listeners, advocates, and donors committed to the future of classical music broadcasting.

Donate

Important notice: Friends of Baltimore Classical Radio Inc. and WBJC-FM and its licensee, Baltimore City Community College, are separate and independent organizations.