Minnesota filmmakers Dawn Mikkelson and Keri Pickett have collaborated on a new documentary that follows a group of women taiko drummers, a Japanese tradition historically dominated by men, in their effort to claim their place in the art form and on the stage. ‘Finding Her Beat’ is getting its Minneapolis premiere this Friday at the Sound Unseen Music & Film Festival in Minneapolis.


'Finding Her Beat' spotlights female Taiko drummers

A first-of-its-kind concert dubbed “The Listening Project” from the Minnesota Orchestra last fall put the spotlight on rarely heard music by Black composers. Read more about the composers featured in this interview by Cathy Wurzer with Louise Topper.


Minnesota Orchestra celebrates rarely heard Black classical composers

The Minnesota Orchestra will perform two concerts this May in Cuba, becoming the first American orchestra to play on the island since the United States moved in December to normalize relations.


Minnesota Orchestra sets May concerts in Cuba

Philip Brunelle and VocalEssence joined MPR News' The Daily Circuit for the annual exploration of Christmas carols that some folks might like to forget.


Christmas carols: The good, bad and ugly

Kevin Ramach says he is stepping down to do creative work. Nina Archabal, most recently the director of the Minnesota Historical Society, will become interim director.


MPR News Staff

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