As many of you know, HPPR’s Amarillo studio space is located on historic Route 66 – and we take a lot of pride in the legacy and celebration of this American institution. We were excited to welcome Dr. Nolan Stolz, Associate Professor of Music at the University of South Carolina—Upstate, as he passed through Amarillo in search of inspiration for his forthcoming composition about the storied motorway. He began his trip in July 2021, and it’ll continue through August of this year. The piece, “Route 66 Suite,” should be available in 2026, upon the 100-year anniversary of the highway. “It’s a musical reflection,” Stolz says, “representing various aspects of the road.” He’s been spending time in every town along Route 66, getting to know the communities, businesses, residents, and historical buildings (including their neon signs, one of which HPPR proudly displays).
Hear the full interview on the link at the top of this page. For more information about this project, as well as his piece about the Lincoln Highway, visit Nolan Stolz’s website here. You can also contact him at nolan@nolanstolz.com.
