WQXR has announced that host Terrance McKnight will be taking a brief leave of absence to work on an upcoming book about race and classical music.

For the next five Thursdays, a number of prominent artists have been invited by McKnight to host the program and curate personal playlists for audiences.

On October 15, the series starts with Brian Lehrer, host of a Peabody Award-winning show on WNYC. He will share a variety of wind repertoire from home and abroad, influenced by his experience as a flute player.

On October 22, the show will be hosted by violinist Kelly Hall-Thompkins, who was named a “New Yorker of the Year” by the New York Times and was featured in the Smithsonian Museum for African-American History. She will share personal favorites from Debussy, Mahler, and Brahms.

The next week, on October 29, award-winning chef, restaurateur, and New York Times bestselling author Marcus Samuelsson will present composers of African descent, with a program comprised of Florence Price, Joseph Boulogne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, and more.

November 5th’s show will be hosted by renowned baritone Thomas Hampson, who will share his favorite arias and songs.

The final guest host will be announced in the coming weeks.

During McKnight’s leave of absence, WQXR hosts Paul Cavalconte and Lauren Rico will also fill in for him.