Studs interviews Barbara Cook about her work in musical theater from Broadway to opera. Cook speaks about the composers and writers she has worked with. She explains some of her songs such as “Ice Cream” and “Grass Harp” and describes her first Carnegie concert. Studs quotes Leonard Bernstein, who speaks to Cook’s talent. Cook describes how she went from Broadway to opera and shares how she chooses the songs that she performs. She discusses the art of her talent. The musical pieces are removed from this edited version of the original recording.

Barbara Carroll demonstrates her piano skills, discusses her career as a singer and musician, and shares her passion for jazz music.

German director August Everding discusses his career from theater to opera and shares themes from his current opera productions.

Opera singers Astrid Varnay and Felicia Weathers discuss the opera “Salome” and the complexity of its lead role with Studs Terkel. Recordings of Varnay singing a piece from the Flying Dutchman and Weathers singing a piece by Strauss are played. Paul Vodicka delivers a few messages toward the conclusion.

Art Hodes discusses his history and influences on his career as a jazz and blues pianist. He tells stories of musicians he has worked with and how he keeps his performances fresh after playing for so many years. Music by Art Hodes is played throughout: "Chimes Blues", "Tennessee Waltz", "Grandpa's Spells", "Just a Closer Walk with Thee","Cakewalkin' Babies from Home", "Blues 'N Booze", and "Riverside Blues".

With an upcoming show put together by Joe Segal, Art Farmer and Ira Sullivan talk about their jazz careers and early lives.

Arlo Guthrie discusses his approach to songwriting and how storytelling in song writing has changed. He also talks about what it's like to become known for performing works written by others. Arlo Guthrie's music is played and discussed throughout the interview: "Manzanillo Bay", "Week on the Rag", "Buffalo Skinners", "City of New Orleans", "Darkest Hour", "Massachusetts", and "Last Train to Glory". Music has been removed for copyright reasons.

Antonia Brico discusses her life as a conductor, her education as a pianist, and her studies to become a conductor. Studs plays an excerpt of the 1974 documentary on Antonia Brico entitled “Antonia: A Portrait of the Woman.”*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Composer and Pulitzer Prize winner for music Anthony Davis discusses his latest work focusing on the topic of the life and assassination of Malcolm X.

Musician Anthony Braxton speaks with Studs Terkel about his music and the various musicians who have influenced him.

Anna Moffo discusses her career as an opera singer, opera composers, and opera music.

Studs Terkel interviews jazz musician Anita O'Day.