History
KHFM was started in November 1954 as a hobby of two teachers at Highland High School, originally broadcasting at 96.3 MHz. KHFM was the first commercial FM station in Albuquerque. The call sign is a combination of the initials for Highland High School and Frequency Modulation, the technical term for FM radio. From its humble beginnings and many changes in ownership and leadership, 95.5 KHFM emerged as a public, listener-supported station in September, 2017. KHFM is recognized as the oldest Classical station in the USA.
KHFM is the only dedicated Classical music station broadcasting and streaming 24/7 in New Mexico and beyond. For many years, KHFM partnered with our symphonies, opera companies and other arts groups. Now, as a non-profit, we are proud to partner with our local arts organizations so that our arts community can flourish. Our rich arts scene is one of the reasons we love New Mexico so much!
KHFM’s broadcast tower is located in the Jemez Mountains so that we can reach Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Los Alamos, and surrounding areas. In 2020, KHFM acquired licenses to have translators in the communities of Roswell, Ruidoso and Taos.
KHFM is the only organization operating under The American General Media Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) in good standing in New Mexico. Guided by a Board of Directors and a Community Advisory Board, we maintain operations through individual donations, corporate sponsorships, foundations and grants.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide access, without cost, to classical music for New Mexican audiences and beyond on-air, online, and on stage.
Our Values
Diversity – our music reflects all the voices that make classical music extraordinary
Accessibility – we believe in classical music for everyone without barriers
Community – we honor our roots in New Mexico and value local artistry
Our Vision - Stronger Together
We strive to create a healthy ecosystem that fosters collaboration, sustainability, and visibility for classical music and visual arts in New Mexico