Soundcheck

Ornette Coleman

Minority Report

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Blacks and Latinos make up just under 5 percent of the musicians in American orchestras. And though some attempts have been made to try to help diversify, the number of minority musicians is still small. Today: a debate about what should be done. One critic argues that American orchestras are totally out of tune with their communities; another feels that orchestras shouldn't mix artistic ideals with political correctness. Also: Saxophone legend Ornette Coleman has been awarded this year's Pulitzer Prize for music. We'll hear why. Finally, alt-country group Son Volt plays live songs from their sharply bittersweet new album, "The Search."

Listen to the whole show

Ornette Coleman Wins Pulitzer Prize

Jazz saxophone legend Ornette Coleman has won this year's Pulitzer Prize. A look at the winning album today.

Orchestra Diversity

Blacks and Latinos account for just 3% of American orchestra musicians. Critics say they’re not being inclusive enough. Today, a debate on racial harmony and political correctness in orchestras with Christopher Orlet from the American Spectator; Justin Davidson, the classical music critic of Newsday; and Dr. Aaron Flagg, a board member at the American Symphony Orchestra League and executive director of the Music Conservatory of Westchester.

Racial Discord By Christopher Orlet
Give us racial harmony by Justin Davidson
American Symphony Orchestra League

Son Volt Live

"The Search" is the second album since Jay Farrar re-formed the alt-country band Son Volt with new members back in 2004. They join us today with a live performance