Jul 2nd, 2009 · After conducting the world's most famous orchestra for seven years, Lorin Maazel gave his last performance June 27. But, at 79, Maazel has now launched a two-week festival on a Virginia farm, and he also intends to teach aspiring conductors. Maazel tells NPR about what it takes to be a successful conductor.
Jun 26th, 2009 · Choreographer and dancer Jeffrey Daniel worked with pop icon Michael Jackson on his hit videos Bad, Smooth Criminal and other projects. He also taught Michael Jackson "the backslide," which the king of pop later developed into the famous "Moonwalk." Daniel offers his memories of Jackson, who died Thursday at age 50.
Jun 25th, 2009 · It's not easy being related to a musical star: Even if your gifts rival those of your sibling, it's presumed that as the less-famous family member, you must be second-rate or a coattail surfer. Especially in the world of soul music, some overshadowed sisters and brothers have proven as compelling as their kin.
Jun 21st, 2009 · Documentarian Benjamin Patton, the grandson of World War II Gen. George S. Patton, comes from the kind of family whose history is well known. But in exploring his family's past, he says he's discovered his grandfather's "warts-and-all side" and the ways that shaped his own father, Maj. Gen. George Patton.
Jun 19th, 2009 · Before her death in 2007 at the age 0f 102, Brooke Astor was the doyenne of New York society — that is until her very final years. Her son Anthony Marshall and his wife, Francis Morrissey, are standing trial, accused of defrauding Astor of millions of dollars. Meryl Gordon, who is covering the trial for Vanity Fair, offers her insight.
Jun 18th, 2009 · John Doe of X and the Canadian roots-rock band The Sadies have released a new album, Country Club. Doe's leathery voice feels right at home with hits made famous by Johnny Cash and Tammy Wynette, while traditional honky-tonk gets an infusion of The Sadies' '60s-style pop.
Jun 18th, 2009 · More than 200 years after a British diplomat arranged to have large sculptures from the Parthenon shipped to Britain, author Christopher Hitchens says the objects should now be returned. A new state-of-the-art museum in Athens wants them, but officials at the British Museum plan to hold on to one of their most famous collections.
Jun 15th, 2009 · Think women aren't funny? Lynn Harris recommends three books by famous funny girls Dolly Parton, Lucille Ball and Carrie Fisher that will force you to think again.