Embracing the spectrum of American music

William Bolcom
William Bolcom
Katryn Conln

The two-and-a-half-week festival called "Illuminating Bolcom" is well underway. The event, led by the Minneapolis-based choral group VocalEssence, will highlight the work of acclaimed American composer William Bolcom.

With a musical palate that stretches in style from country to classical to cabaret, Bolcom has earned four Grammys and a Pulitzer and has established himself as a significant musical force.

MPR's Cathy Wurzer talked with Fred Child, the host of the American Public Media classical music program Performance Today about what makes Bolcom a unique composer.

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