On Friday October 2, 2026, WQED-FM broadcast the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra's season opening concert live from Heinz Hall. Led by Music Director Manfred Honeck, the orchestra played "Masquerade" by Anna Clyne and Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4, "Italian." Kirill Gerstein returned to play the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2. WQED President and CEO Jason Jedlinski and former PSO Board Member and Chair Emerita of the WQED Board Millie Myers spoke with Jim Cunningham prior to the concert. Jason spoke about the "Dead Air" initiative going on at WQED throughout October. Millie spoke about the Lang Lang Gala concert with the PSO the previous week and the strong relationship between WQED and the PSO. Music Director Manfred Honeck joined Jim Cunningham during intermission to talk about this final weekend with Anne Martindale Williams before she retires; the recent PSO performance at the University of Illinois earlier in the week; and his new posts in London and San Francisco. Jim was also joined by Anne Martindale Williams who spoke about her retirement; memorable performances she's had with the orchestra over the years; and how she will continue to be busy teaching. Guest pianist Kirill Gerstein spoke with Jim Cunningham after playing the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2 about it being a special weekend to play with the PSO and with Anne Martindale Williams, his upcoming concerts, and his love of jazz.