The L.A. fires gave new life to a composer's firefighter anthem

NPR | By Karl T Wright

Published September 27, 2026 at 5:14 PM EDT

LA-based composer Charles-Henri Avelange wrote a score to honor firefighters almost 20 years ago. After last year's wildfires in Los Angeles, he's made headway in finally recording it.

Related Content

Fall planting isn't over. Try greens, garlic or both

Gabriel J. Sánchez, Debbie Elliott, Linah Mohammad

A University of Maryland farm manager explains why Swiss chard and garlic are good choices for a home garden this fall.
Maricopa County official on how they're tackling mistrust around election security

Ayesha Rascoe

As President Trump questions election security, many local officials are trying to reassure voters. NPR's Ayesha Rascoe talks to Kate Brophy McGee, chair of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.
As Congress debates college sports, athletes-turned-senators have a seat at the table

Becky Sullivan

The Protect College Sports Act is on the brink of passing in the Senate, where a handful of former college athletes who are now senators on both sides of the aisle have an extra say in the debate.
After Hurricane Helene, this community was inspired to learn how to use power tools

Laura Hackett

People in western North Carolina are learning to use power tools two years after Hurricane Helene. They want to be prepared for future disasters.
She owns 3 popular sushi restaurants in Phoenix. ICE detained her for 8 months

Ayesha Rascoe

Kelly Yu owns three popular sushi restaurants in the Phoenix area. When she was detained by ICE, the local community rallied around her. NPR's Ayesha Rascoe visits Yu at one of her restaurants.

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.