Mar 2nd, 2010 · Drawing from its globe-trotting experience with Yo-Yo Ma's Silk Road Ensemble, Brooklyn Rider blends genres and influences seamlessly, carving out its own unique space within the world of chamber music. The string quartet will perform as part of NPR Music's daytime party at The Parish in Austin, Texas, on March 18.
Feb 23rd, 2010 · Here's a good reminder of why it pays to pay attention to who's in the band: on the intersection of classical chamber music, indie pop, New Orleans brass bands and modern jazz — in the heart of Brooklyn.
Feb 2nd, 2010 · A former Senate staffer says the dramatic rise in the use of cloture in the Senate is making the chamber dysfunctional. Ira Shapiro says the difference between the Senate now and in the 1960s is that four decades ago Senators had strong individual views, but recognized the need to reconcile those views either by compromise or by voting.
Jan 30th, 2010 · The chamber ensemble earned two Grammy nominations for its 2009 album, which rearranged classic tunes by the jazz composer Dave Brubeck. On the eve of the Grammy Awards, the string quartet visited NPR to play songs like "Blue Rondo a la Turk."
Jan 12th, 2010 · The business group has all but conceded defeat on health overhaul becoming law. But there will be plenty of chances for changing it as the provisions are implemented over several years.
Jan 11th, 2010 · Every year, Congressional Quarterly measures the percentage of partisan votes taken in the House and Senate. A roll call vote is considered partisan if a majority of Democrats votes against a majority of Republicans. But in the Senate last year, it was a whopping 72 percent — the highest percentage of partisan votes ever tallied in that chamber.
Jan 4th, 2010 · Trumpeter and composer Wadada Leo Smith's music ranges from solo recitals to works for chamber orchestra, and for various small improvising units. Smith had three albums out this past fall — two reissues and a new set of live concert recordings by two of his bands.
Dec 26th, 2009 · Senate Democrats praised the health care bill passed early Thursday morning as a Christmas Eve gift to the nation, but every Republican in the chamber voted against it. Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee called the bill a "historic mistake" that he predicts will increase premiums and taxes, cut Medicare and lay an undue burden on the states. Host Scott Simon speaks with Alexander about the bill