WAER is proud to present the return of our weekly program, Common Threads, which airs Sundays from 2 to 5 PM. We hope to continue the proud legacy of the radio show Larry Hoyt created and nurtured. An engaging show that focuses on acoustic-led music, both locally, nationally, and internationally, and music from the past and present. We hope you find Common Threads an enjoyable listen, whether you’re looking for comfort music on a Sunday afternoon, hoping to hear your favorite acoustic songs, or be introduced to new music, from the current folk scene and beyond.

Your new host Pete Thomas is a local music fan (and occasional performer) and graduate of Syracuse University's Newhouse School (2003). He lives in Central New York with his wife and two children.

Pete is excited to play selections that will appeal to the show’s longtime audience, some of whom tell us they listen via online streaming or mobile app from faraway places and other states.

Common Threads, born from discussions by the Central New York Friends of Folk, was proposed to WAER in May of 1997. It was a fixture on WAER’s airwaves for 27 years before Larry had to step away for health reasons. The show drew a following of music fans and many local musicians who appreciated the format, as well as the opportunity to gain exposure.

Common Threads playlist includes songs from such legendary artists as Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, and Joni Mitchell, as well as wide selection of material from more contemporary artists, such as Alison Krauss, Chuck Brodsky, Sarah Jarosz, and Rhiannon Giddens. Many acts from Upstate New York, such as Loren Barrigar, The Cadleys, The Burns Sisters, Karen Savoca, Colleen Kattau and others are also featured, not just because they are local, but because their high quality music deserves equal recognition.

Common Threads has found a receptive and supportive audience here in Central New York. Listener input and community support are two important factors that have made Common Threads a successful long-term asset in the WAER programming schedule. Tune in Sundays from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at 88.3 FM, streaming at WAER.org or on our mobile app or smart speaker.