Presenting a concert at the Fairmont Hotel with jazz pianist, composer and radio host Ramsey Lewis.

Shel Silverstein discusses his books and children's literature, and art. Shel Silverstein discusses his contemporaries, art, and life experiences.

Sandra Lieb discusses the book "Mother of the Blues: A Study of Ma Rainey." Includes songs sung by Ma Rainey such as "Runaway Blues," "See See Rider," "Moonshine Blues," and "Oh, Papa Blues." Includes poem "Ma Rainey" by Sterling Brown. Includes "Oh, Daddy," by Ethel Waters. Includes "Young Woman's Blues" by Bessie Smith.

Leonard Bernstein discusses his career as a composer along with his thoughts on American culture, musical theater, Black music, classical music, and education; music is played throughout the program including songs from Marc Blitzstein's play "The Cradle Will Rock."

Co-founder of the bookstore City Lights Booksellers & Publishers, poet and social activist Lawrence Ferlinghetti discusses his latest work which reflects on his youth and travels to Europe. Ferlinghetti recites pieces from his current work on the topics of Spain, France, and Italy. The poet also reflects on his previous work and his view on the Beat Generation.

Music producer John Hammond and jazz critic for Down Beat magazine John McDonough discuss: Hammond's career; the artists he worked with; the artists he was the first to sign; social reform; and more. The following musical excerpts are played: "7 Come 11"; "Sauce"; "Talking Union"; "Blowing In the Wind"; "Today I Sing The Blues"; and "Live Embers".

Hoagy B. Carmichael discusses his father and legendary jazz musician, Hoagy Carmichael. He also explores his work as a music producer, author, bamboo fly rod builder, and manager of his father’s music. Includes a test tone that lasts 25 seconds. music.

The conversation continues with Belafonte talking about his album, "Belafonte Sings of the Caribbean". The songs, explained Belafonte, were both reflections of his childhood and things he was exposed to as an adult. Belafonte believed both Louis Armstrong and Jack Teagarden played important roles in jazz music.

Singer Harry Belafonte discusses Black music including spirituals and jazz and how it has contributed to American culture.

In addition to talking about Senegalese music, Gana M'Bow goes over the history of the "talking drum." M'Bow also plays various songs from Senegal and West Africa. Through the State Department, M'Bow was touring various cities across the US.

Richard Peaslee discusses his work as a composer in the film "Marat/Sade" directed by Peter Brook and based off Richard Weiss' 1964 play.

Studs sits down with a musicologist and jazz musician, an American violinist, and a Russian violinist to discuss their cross-cultural and musical genre-bending collaboration - the American Soviet Youth Orchestra (AKA the American Russian Young Artists Orchestra).*Please note: some sections have been edited out from the original recording due to copyright considerations