wnyc.org / 93.9fm / am 820

The 13th century Persian mystic Rumi is one of the most widely read poets in America. In honor of his 800th birthday, UNESCO has declared 2007 as the International Year of Rumi. Today, we hear how Rumi's poetry inspires musicians from around the globe. Also: the band Sparklehorse features frontman Mark Linkous, whose sophisticated songwriting has emerged as he has overcame battles with depression and drugs. The band performs selections today from their latest album, "Dreamt for Light Years in the Belly of a Mountain." Finally, the local choreographer Miguel Gutierrez discusses his new evening-length piece, "Everyone."