Tom Schnabel is an internationally recognized radio producer, pioneer, and innovator in world music. He helped introduce world music to American audiences as KCRW’s first music director and host of Morning Becomes Eclectic (1979-1991). Tom is the author of two books (Stolen Moments: Conversations with Contemporary Musicians and Rhythm Planet: The Great World Music Makers), and numerous articles about music. He has produced a number of recordings (Trance Planet, vols. 1–5), and provides music supervision for advertising and movies. He has also served as Program Advisor for the Hollywood Bowl and Walt Disney Concert Hall. Tom has taught in Los Angeles (UCLA Extension, SCIARC, Mt. Saint Mary’s College) and in Paris (Ecole Universelle). He has over 18 years of experience teaching world music and currently offers weekly music salons at his home.
His new project at KCRW, Rhythm Planet, showcases the best in jazz and world music. The digital platform includes an on-demand show, a membership club, a blog, and a series of live music salons.
Tom Schnabel on KCRW
More from KCRW
Faye Webster: KCRW Live from HQ
ArtsAhead of crushing her Coachella debut, Faye Webster went Live From KCRW HQ with highlights from her 2024 LP “Underdressed at the Symphony” — here’s the video.
KCRW’s Top 30: Baby Rose (slow) burns up the chart
KCRW's Top 30 ChartOur 2023 breakthrough artist, Baby Rose, earns the spins to take her BADBADNOTGOOD produced EP “Slow Burn” to number one.
Justice: KCRW Guest DJ Set
Best New MusicIn between Coachella weekends and ahead of their feverishly anticipated new LP “Hyperdrama,” French duo Justice stop by to nerd out about records.
KCRW’s Top 30: Chicano Batman soars ahead
KCRW's Top 30 ChartSoCal’s Chicano Batman rides high, but did LA electropop duo Brijean just drop the city’s official anthem?
Kaiden Surti builds layers upon layers: Young Creators Project
MusicYorba Linda’s Kaiden Surti is a 13-year-old violinist, tabla percussionist, and composer uniting his Indian and American roots through song.
‘This place literally saved her’: The profound role of Debbie Allen Dance Academy
ArtsA year ago, living in Miami, Lēya Graham’s passion for dance was waning. Then she discovered the Debbie Allen Dance Academy in LA, which served as a lifeline.
KCRW’s 5 Songs to Hear This Week: Caribou, L'Impératrice, Chappell Roan
MusicPeep some acts that wowed at Coachella weekend one — including L’Impérarice and Chappell Roan — and plan accordingly if you’re trekking out for weekend two.
Lost Notes, Season 4 - Ep 4: Viva Tirado: The South/East LA Connection
ArtsLost Notes explores how the song “Viva Tirado” exemplifies the inter-generational musical conversation between LA’s Black and Brown communities.
KCRW’s Top 30: Khruangbin at Coachella nearly triples spins of ‘A LA SALA’
KCRW's Top 30 ChartKhruangbin aren’t the only ones reaping desert rewards… you’ll find the Coachella bump all over this week’s Top 30.