Music Articles archive
Listen R. Kelly's Queer, Campy 'Closet' Reopens
November 27, 2012 – The R&B singer recently unveiled new chapters in his melodramatic Trapped in the Closet series.
Listen Kennedy Center's New Organ No Longer A Pipe Dream
November 27, 2012 – The Kennedy Center finally replaced its not-quite-up-to-the-task pipe organ.
Listen Do Orchestras Really Need Conductors?
November 27, 2012 – A computer science study shows that conductors play decisive roles in the performance of orchestras.
Read 'Treme' Ep. 31: To Call It Quits WBGO
November 27, 2012 – As season three winds to a close, many regular guests of the show play a few numbers. WBGO
Listen After Decades Of Dreaming, Dolly Parton Says, 'Dream More'
November 27, 2012 – In her new book Dream More, Parton explains the principles behind her enormous commercial success.
Read A Critic Atones
November 27, 2012 – As list-making season begins, a critic looks back at her own early judgments and blind spots.
Read Joyce DiDonato: Sublime Singing Makes The Unreal Real
November 27, 2012 – Hear a celebrated mezzo-soprano sing an aria from her exceptional new recording of Baroque opera.
Watch Bedroom Dancing: Le Tigre By Accident
November 27, 2012 – A new fan recalls first hearing the band in high school, on a mixtape meant for someone else.
Listen Meshell Ndegeocello Honors Simone's 'Sovereign Soul'
November 26, 2012 – The singer performs the songs of Nina Simone on her new album, Pour Une Âme Souveraine.
Watch 100 Years Of Don Byas And Teddy Wilson
November 26, 2012 – This fall marks the centennial anniversaries of two all-time great improvisers, born in 1912.
Read Michel Van Der Aa Wins The Grawemeyer Award For Music
November 25, 2012 – Watch an excerpt of a cello concerto/short film that has earned the Dutch composer the prize.
Listen Martha Wainwright On New Motherhood, And A Mother Lost
November 25, 2012 – Wainwright's newest album was inspired by two big changes in her family — a birth and a death.
Watch Alicia Keys: How A 'Girl On Fire' Keeps From Burning Out
November 25, 2012 – Now married and a mother, Keys says she's more vigilant than ever about remaining productive.
Listen Missy Mazzoli: A New Opera And New Attitude For Classical Music
November 23, 2012 – The young composer from Brooklyn battles the stereotypes in classical music.
Read The NPR Music Holiday Gift Wish List
November 23, 2012 – Our staff picks out a lavish holiday wish list, from the practical to the fantastical.