15 Facts About Martin Bookspan

Martin Bookspan was an American announcer, commentator, and author.

Martin Bookspan was the announcer on the PBS series Live from Lincoln Center from its beginnings in 1976 until his retirement in 2006.

Martin Bookspan's father worked as a dry goods salesman before going into insurance; his mother was a housewife.

Martin Bookspan's father enkindled Bookspan's interest in classical music by taking him to concerts on the weekends, where he would act as an usher.

Martin Bookspan first worked for several radio stations around Greater Boston.

Martin Bookspan then spent eleven years at WQXR, a classical radio station in New York, where he was music director and program director.

Martin Bookspan was the host of the NPR program Composers Forum in the early 1970s, in which he interviewed contemporary composers and played recordings of their music.

Martin Bookspan wrote the Basic Repertoire column for Stereo Review, evaluating recordings of the standard orchestral repertoire.

Martin Bookspan became known for his extensive knowledge of classical music.

Martin Bookspan was noted for his ability to provide anecdotes to cover any unanticipated breaks, such as when the New York Philharmonic completed their performance around 18 minutes ahead of their apportioned airtime.

Martin Bookspan retired as the Live from Lincoln Center announcer in 2006 after three decades at the helm.

Martin Bookspan was married to Janet Sobel for 54 years until her death in 2008.

Janet and Martin Bookspan had three children: Rachel, David, and Deborah.

Martin Bookspan died on April 29,2021, at his home in Aventura, Florida.

Martin Bookspan was 94, and suffered from congestive heart failure prior to his death.