Music

Accordionist William Schimmel explains how his instrument lends itself to stylistic mash-ups and improvisatory approaches to composition.

David Bowie claims that his new album, Never Let Me Down, includes every style he's played throughout his 17-album career. Rock critic Ken Tucker says the music is an improvement over the pop legend's recent movies and records.

Tipper Gore, wife of Tennessee senator Albert Gore, is concerned with the increasingly violent and sexual nature of popular music's lyrics, videos, and culture. She believes that record companies should alert consumers to an album's explicit content so parents can make informed decision regarding what their children listen to.

Despite the current popularity of minimalist music, classical music critic Lloyd Schwartz believes that Ellott Carter, whose work never shies away from complexity, is the greatest living composer.

Language commentator Geoff Nunberg tries to untangle the convoluted syntax of the Star-Spangled Banner.

Dave Marsh is a friend and biographer of the New Jersey rock star. He explains how Springsteen's work has matured, and the impact the artist's albums have had on the songwriter's fans.

Rock historian Ed Ward reflects on one-hit-wonder country singer Tommy McLain, who kept a low-profile playing bars in Louisiana.

Jazz critic Francis Davis believes the saxophonist's new album demonstrates both compositional and improvisatory prowess.

Rock critic Ken Tucker says that, after a few recent missteps, Prince has released a masterful new double album.

In his new book, music writer Joseph Horowitz considers the rise of Italian conductor Arturo Toscanini, whose popularity grew during wartime. Many of Toscanini's contemporaries fell out of favor because of their German heritage.

Artur Schnabel is often considered an intellectual musician, but critic Lloyd Schwartz believes the pianist's skill lies in his emotional sensitivity. The Arabesque label has recently reissued a number of Schnabel's recordings on CD, including a collection of Beethoven concertos.

Rilling has devoted his life to performing Baroque music, focusing on sacred music and the compositions of J.S. Bach.

Rock critic Ed Ward examines the life of the early rock guitarist and finds depth in the words of his raucous, bluesy songs.

Fresh Air jazz critic Francis Davis reviews a new recording of a 1924 arrangement of the Gershwin classic, which emphasizes the piece's jazzier elements.

The musician started his career as a pianist, later focusing on vocals at the age of 27. He has developed an unusual technique and impressive three-and-a-half octave range.

Malcom Rebennack writes and performs music under the name Dr. John. He began as a studio musician before developing his theatrical stage show, which drew from New Orleans traditions.

Peggy King returns to Fresh Air for a holiday concert featuring bassist David Finck and pianist and harpists Corky Hale.

The musician moved from Philadelphia moved to New York to broaden her career opportunities. She considers how gender and her biracial background have affected her standing in the jazz scene.

While working as a preacher at a mortuary, Solomon Burke was recruited by Atlantic Records to make a country and western album. The record was a hit, but many listeners didn't know Burke is black. He joins Fresh Air to share stories of how he later made a name in soul music.

In her new memoir, Dreamgirl, singer Mary Wilson outlines the history of the girl group, including their contentious legal and financial relationship with Motown Records.