Podcasts

In the second part of our conversation with 2024 NEA Jazz Master, trumpeter, and composer Terence Blanchard, we explore the emotional and creative depths of his work, from his jazz innovations to his evolution as an opera composer.

Trumpeter, composer, and 2024 NEA Jazz Master Terence Blanchard talks about his musical roots, early years, and working with Spike Lee.

A conversation with 2024 NEA National Heritage Fellow and koto musician June Kuramoto. Kuramoto discusses tradition, innovation, and a lifetime of music.

A conversation with Hana S. Sharif, Artistic Director of Arena Stage since August 2023. Sharif discusses her transformative first year at the helm and her inaugural season as Arena’s producing artistic director.

National Heritage Fellow Andy Statman shares his musical journey through klezmer, jazz, bluegrass, and beyond.

Exploring Disability Creativity and Accessibility in Opera

Charles Yu, adaptor and showrunner for his National Book Award winning novel "Interior Chinatown," discusses Asian American identity and representation.

Folklife presenter, creator and host of American Routes and the 2023 Bess Lomax Hawes National Heritage Fellow Nick Spitzer reflects on a career dedicated to sharing the stories and music that make up America’s roots and routes.

Honoring the extraordinary lives and legacies of NEA Jazz Masters Roy Haynes and Lou Donaldson with excerpts from their interviews and music that defined their careers.

A Veterans Day episode revisits Theater of War’s origins, exploring how creative director Bryan Doerries came to use Greek tragedy to foster conversations among veterans and service members about trauma and resilience.

Artist Rose B. Simpson discusses her work in large-scale public art and her journey as a creative rooted in Santa Clara Pueblo heritage.

Author Christina Henry discusses the art of horror storytelling, the timeless appeal of haunted spaces, and the power of atmosphere in her work.

2024 National Heritage Fellow Todd Goings reflects on the magic of carousels and how his work preserves these historic treasures for future generations.

Juan Felipe Herrera, who was recently named a MacArthur Fellow  and was the first Latino U.S. Poet Laureate, reflects on his upbringing as the son of Mexican immigrants, his experimental approach to poetry, and the power of language to connect commun...

A conversation with showrunner and writer Soo Hugh about realizing the acclaimed international series "Pachinko."

Playwright Jocelyn Bioh discusses the personal connections that inspired her award-winning play Jaja’s African Hair Braiding and her use of humor to shine a spotlight on serious issues.

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month: Revisiting our 2023 interview with award-winning author Meg Medina, the first Latina National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature.

Meet 2024 National Heritage Fellow and acclaimed Chicano muralist Fabian Debora.

James Rees discusses his career as an artist and in arts education and advocacy, sharing insights into the importance of fostering creativity and critical thinking in young artists.

Professor Thalia Goldstein unpacks the impact of theater education on student development.

2024 National Heritage Fellow Bril Barrett reflects on the enduring power of tap to connect past, present, and future and how his teaching philosophy—rooted in history, culture, and improvisation—continues to inspire the next generation of tap dancer...

In this 2023 interview, Dr. David Fakunle shares how storytelling and the arts serve as powerful tools for healing and public health, transforming communities through creativity.

Musician Vijay Iyer discusses his diverse musical background and his parallel careers in jazz and contemporary classical music.

In honor of Disability Pride Month, we are revisiting a conversation with Dr. Joel Snyder, an educator, advocate, and trailblazer in audio description.

Author Bonnie Jo Campbell discusses her novel, "The Waters," a tale set in the rich landscapes of rural Michigan that explores the intricate dynamics within a family of women in a shifting society.