ATHENS — One of public radio's most popular music programs, "From the Top," will tape a live episode Sunday at the UGA Performing Arts Center.

"From the Top," with host Christopher O'Riley, celebrates performances and personal stories of the nation's top pre-collegiate classical musicians. The Athens taping will feature world renowned flutist Sir James Galway as a special guest.

Sunday's taping will showcase performances by two 17-year-old violists, Arianna Smith of St. Charles, Ill., and Kenneth Renshaw of San Francisco; 12-year-old pianist Nick Allgeier from Raleigh, N.C.; and 18-year-old harpist Angelica Hairston from Atlanta.

The episode will air nationally the week of March 21 and locally March 22 on WUGA 91.7-FM and 97.9-FM.

After debuting in 2000, "From the Top" became the fastest growing weekly classical music program in public radio history. Today, the Boston-based nonprofit organization reaches millions through its popular NPR radio show, Emmy Award-winning PBS television series, national tour, online media and community engagement programs.

Over the past decade, "From the Top" broadcasts have highlighted some 2,000 young musicians taped in America's premier concert halls.

Galway has performed with the world's leading orchestras. He has played for world leaders and shared a stage with entertainers including Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Ray Charles.