Vinson & Elkins Represents KERA Pro Bono in Acquisition of Public Radio Program Showcasing Young Classical Musicians

Vinson & Elkins represented KERA, Dallas’ public broadcasting network, on a pro bono basis in its agreement to acquire From the Top, Inc., a nationally syndicated public radio program dedicated to showcasing young classical musicians.

Announced on February 12, 2026, the acquisition will bring From the Top to North Texas in May 2026. Heard on nearly 200 stations across the country, From the Top highlights classically trained young musicians through live performances, broadcasts, podcasts, scholarships, and arts education programs. The acquisition supports KERA’s mission to expand its music and education initiatives and further strengthen its engagement with young audiences and the arts community.

“Vinson & Elkins was instrumental in KERA’s acquisition of From the Top. Having the program rooted in North Texas will open up so many opportunities for local musicians and arts groups. We’re so grateful to V&E for recognizing the importance of this program for our community, and for their significant time and hard work to help make it happen,” said Nico Leone, President and CEO of KERA.

“Living in Dallas, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply this community values the arts, and bringing From the Top here aligns perfectly with that spirit. This acquisition enhances North Texas’ cultural landscape and ensures young musicians continue to have a meaningful platform to share their talent nationwide,” said Partner Chris Rowley, who served as lead counsel to KERA in the matter. “I am also happy to have played a part in carrying on Vinson & Elkins’ long-standing tradition of doing impactful pro bono work that makes a positive contribution to the lives of our clients and the communities where we live and work.”  

The Vinson & Elkins team included Associates Griff Kimball and Reese Glusing. Also assisting were Partner David Peck and Associates Katie Dillard and Nina Sharma, Partner Becky Baker and Senior Associate Andrew Cox, Partner Shane Tucker and Senior Associates Matt Green and Haley Titcomb.

This is the second acquisition that Vinson & Elkins has completed for KERA, following its earlier pro bono handling of KERA’s acquisition of the Denton Record-Chronicle.

Vinson & Elkins’ pro bono program reflects the firm’s commitment to providing legal services to those in need. Lawyers across the firm dedicate substantial time and resources to matters that make a meaningful difference in communities and lives.

About Vinson & Elkins
For more than a century, Vinson & Elkins has provided outstanding client service across important industries that drive the global economy. Built on a strong culture of collaboration across 14 offices worldwide, V&E lawyers are committed to excellence, offering clients decades of legal experience in handling transactions, investments, projects and disputes across the globe. Learn more by visiting www.velaw.com or connect with us on LinkedIn.

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