More recent programs on music

Here are some of the latest music stories from VOA on music and musical events from the U.S.:

Pete Seeger's name has appeared in several of my previous blogs. Now Katherine Cole reports on his latest album, "Pete Seeger at 89", in which he sings "old favorites" with a new approach.

Doug Levine reviews the exciting series of events that took place here in Washington during the recent Fourth Annual Duke Ellington Jazz Festival. The event culminated with a splendid performance at the Voice of America celebrating the music of the Americas, with a group led by the electrifying Paquito D'Rivera, and featuring outstanding musicians from the U.S., Peru, Colombia, Curacao, Argentina, and Cuba. We are hoping to be able to make at least portions of this concert available on line, pending obtaining the appropriate clearances from the musicians.

Bluegrass music, like jazz, is one of the quintessentially American contributions to the musical world. Originating in the southern mountains of the United States, and characterized as having "a high, lonesome sound", bluegrass has now become a major musical genre, practised by performers from around the world. Listen to Katherine Cole's report on the 19th International Bluegrass Music Awards, in which a number of performers emerged as new stars.

Returning to jazz, Doug Levine tells us about a very successful new album of jazz standards by the vocalist Nicole Henry, "The Very Thought of You." You can see, and hear, more of her on her official Website, www.nicolehenry.com.

Moving to country music--related to but separate from bluegrass--Mary Morningstar reports on the success of the new album, Learn to Live, by Darius Rucker, the African American lead singer for Hootie and the Blowfish.

Keep listening, and send us your reactions and requests!