Choreographer Mark Morris introduces music from the Batak of Northern Sumatra. The song is called "Horud Baling" and it's from a CD called Batak, from New Albion Records.

The Batak are a family of seven Indonesian ethnic groups with a population of about two million. Music and dance are extremely important in Batak society; musicians command great respect in Batak society and must follow a certain code of behavior.

1960s pop star Lesley Gore, best-known for hits like "It's My Party" and "You Don't Own Me," says that Nat King Cole's "Pretend" influenced not only her music, but also her world view. If you're not happy - sometimes it's best just to pretend you're happy anyway.

Celebrated choreographer Mark Morris tells us about The Bad Plus, a trio that says they've spent the last few years "busting up any and all preconceived notions of what an acoustic jazz trio ought to be." Listen to their cover of the Blondie hit "Heart of Glass," from The Bad Plus's album These are the Vistas.

Newgrass musician Sam Bush says that Jeff Black is one of the finest Nashville songwriters working today. Hear Sam tell us about Jeff's song "Gold Heart Locket," from his album "B-Sides and Confessions, vol. 1." And Jeff picks his banjo and sings us a song about love and disappointment.

New York-based singer/songwriter Ruth Gerson has her own brand of unique blues-infused folk music. Once she was shaken to her bones by a Dolly Parton song.

Butch Morris is one of New York's most innovative conductors, composers, and musicians. You won't hear his music on the Top 40 charts, but a big 1960s pop hit was one of his formative musical experiences.

Jazz trumpeter Dave Douglas has his own record label, and people send him unsolicited CDs every day. Once in awhile, one of them turns out to be really good.

Leonard's Music Picks

Leonard's not a musician, but he's a music lover. He got his start in radio as a jazz and gospel DJ! Find out about some of his personal favorites.

March 25, 2005

Brazilian pianist Joao Carlos Martins's unusual career has brought him both adulation and criticism. He plays a particularly poignant version of J.S. Bach's French Suites. Listen to him playing the Gigue from French Suite #3.

March 21, 2005

Pianist and composer Thelonious Monk revolutionized modern bebop and jazz. Hear Leonard explain why he loves Monk's composition "Misterioso."

Thanks to Simon Rentner for his help with this feature.