Ned Rorem discusses the differences between writing books and writing compositions, his book "The Paris Diary of Ned Rorem", and how he uses poetry in his compositions.

Studs Terkel interviews composer Ned Rorem. They discuss Rorem's childhood, music, poetry, languages, and religion.

Howard Levy learned to play the piano at the age of 8. After hearing a John Coltrane album at 17, Levy knew he wanted to play blues on the harmonica. Levy talks about and demonstrates the harmonica, the pan flute, the Marimba and the ocarina. There is also an excerpt of Laurel Masse singing.

In a quick roundtable discussion, Moe Asch, Jerry Silverman and Dick Waterman cover the topic of music. Much to their surprise, American folk music is very popular over in Europe. All three men agree that one's everyday experiences, past or present, do become subjects of writers' songs.

Merce Cunningham, choreographer and John Cage musician and composer speak about music and dance. The two gentlemen discuss with Studs how music and dance come together to create the avant-garde of art in both worlds (music and dance).

Self-taught composer Maurice Weddington talks about his music career from his early years when he was raised on the West Side of Chicago to his performances around Western Europe.

Marilyn Horne and Henry Lewis discuss their careers, opera music, and their operatic roles. They also discuss cross-gender roles in opera and Marilyn Horne's role as Romeo in the opera "Capuleti e i Montecchi" by Vincenzo Bellini. Includes clips of Marilyn Horne singing an opera song at the beginning, an opera song by Gioachino Rossini, and a song from Charles Gounod's opera "Sapho."*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations 

Marilyn Horne and Henry Lewis discuss their careers, roles, and opera. Includes Marilyn Horne singing a song from Ludwig von Beethoven's "Fidelio".

Margie Adam, singer, songwriter, pianist and activist discusses her latest album (1980) Naked Keys which features her solo piano music.

Margie Adam, musician, activist, and composer, discusses how events such as the women's movement and the lesbian-feminist movement inspired her to create music for her new album, Another Place. The album reflects on Adams's life and on topics such as her sexuality.

Listening to the Living Music Collection