History in the Making

Soundcheck | May 3, 2010
Filmmaker Ken Burns has brought to life the history of the Civil War, baseball, and jazz in numerous public television specials. His upcoming documentary looks at the live of heavyweight-boxing champion Jack Johnson, and features music by Wynton Marsalis. Today, he tells host John Schaefer how music plays a key role in each of his documentaries. Also, Bay Area composer Paul Dresher produced the “American Trilogy” in the 1980’s and 1990’s, a set of musical theater works that sought to address different facets of American culture. He is back with a brand new CD and an upcoming performance at Carnegie Hall. Dresher joins us today to share samples of his Electro-Acoustic Band and his unique take on experimental opera and orchestral composition.
Additional Resources:
» More about Ken Burns on Jack Johnson
» Paul Dresher Ensemble’s Web site

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