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Music

After years of ever-shrinking orchestras, some Broadway musicals are going big

After years of ever-shrinking orchestras, some Broadway musicals are going big

Producers have been saying for years that large Broadway orchestras are not financially feasible. In fact, the issue led to a strike 20 years ago. So why are some shows bringing them back?
by Jeff Lunden

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Arts Briefs: Unexpected public art

Arts Briefs: Unexpected public art

This week’s arts briefs look at the new season for Cantus, art at the capitol and a huge pencil. Also: Absolute Bleeding Edge looks at stripped-down Swedish glam rock.
by Jacob Aloi, Alex V. Cipolle and Max Sparber

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Folk and blues legend Lead Belly’s Minneapolis private party

Folk and blues legend Lead Belly’s Minneapolis private party

Folk and blues singer Huddie Ledbetter performed a short concert at a friend’s Minneapolis home in 1948. Instead of being lost in music history, someone decided to record it.
by Cathy Wurzer, Britt Aamodt, Jamal Allen and Robbie Mitchem

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Bigg Kiaa makes a big splash in Minneapolis music scene

Bigg Kiaa makes a big splash in Minneapolis music scene

At just 20 years old, Nakia Neal is making a name for herself in the Minneapolis music scene as Bigg Kiaa. Bigg Kiaa earns her name with her energy and personality each time she performs. 

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Music programs in Minnesota prisons aim to make change

Music programs in Minnesota prisons aim to make change

The Minnesota Prison Writing Workshop and Radical Reversal seek to make change through providing access to recording equipment to the incarcerated.  

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J.D. Steele: Spreading joy and soul through song

J.D. Steele: Spreading joy and soul through song

Musician J.D. Steele is known for his work with Prince and singing and producing R&B, gospel and soul with The Steeles. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with this Minnesota music powerhouse about his career, directing community choirs and inspiring the next generation to sing.
by Angela Davis and Maja Beckstrom

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Arts Briefs: Concerts and celebrations

Arts Briefs: Concerts and celebrations

This week’s Arts Briefs include new concert series, a Thai New Year’s celebration and updates from the arts community. Also in Absolute Bleeding Edge: a multimedia project about beds, and the lack of them.
by Jacob Aloi, Alex V. Cipolle and Max Sparber

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How George Floyd's murder changed 4 Minneapolis musician's paths

How George Floyd's murder changed 4 Minneapolis musician's paths

Three years later, SoulFlower, Breezy2Fresh, Mack OC and Oaojooo came together to share their experiences, inspirations and thoughts on the role of music in bringing about social change.

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Honoring and remembering George Floyd with music

Honoring and remembering George Floyd with music

Three years after the murder of George Floyd, music has been an essential tool for healing. Floyd’s former partner Courteney Ross and south Minneapolis musician Raycurt Johnson share their stories.

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