Ronald Klemm

A life-long broadcaster, Ron Klemm began his radio career in high school, showcasing a natural talent for sports announcing. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Dordt University, where his passion for music led him to classical radio.  

 In 1978, Ron joined St. Louis’s CLASSIC 99 (KFUO-FM), serving as Program Director and Operations Manager until his 2013 retirement. During his tenure the station achieved national recognition, including the National Association of Broadcasters prestigious Marconi Award for “Best Classical Station” in 1999. Mr. Klemm is a Past-President of the Classical Music Broadcasters Association, an organization of the nation’s classical music broadcasters.   

 Ron pioneered the Saint Louis Symphony’s LIVE weekly radio broadcasts and concert previews. He established a program of classical, choral and chamber music, which was broadcast weekly, LIVE from the renowned Missouri Botanical Garden. In collaboration with Bach Society Music Director Dennis Sparger, Ron launched “JOY,” an hour of choral classics that became one of St. Louis’s longest running musical programs. JOY was syndicated on nearly eighty radio stations across the United States and other English-speaking countries.  

 A devoted church musician, Ron has directed several choirs, and sung in the Bach Society of Saint Louis Chorus since 1992. Post-retirement, Klemm created “BACH TALK,” a monthly podcast featuring local, national and international figures. Recent guests have included conductors, vocal soloists, chorus and orchestra members, Bach scholars and authors. His career reflects a deep commitment to broadcasting and classical music, leaving a lasting impact on the St. Louis arts community and beyond.