music

Remains of ancient building in desert (U.S. Embassy Astana)

Celebrating Kazakhstan’s rich culture

Learn how U.S. programs help preserve Kazakhstan's culture and how the "Qazaq-pop" band Ninety One teaches some Americans to speak Kazakh.
Poster celebrating jazz, with illustration of Jon Batiste leaning back, smiling, with eyes closed, playing a melodica (State Dept./D. Thompson)

Meet Oscar-winning jazz artist Jon Batiste [poster]

For Jazz Appreciation Month, learn about Jon Batiste, a young American jazz musician who has won numerous awards, including an Oscar in 2021.
Young women dancing during parade (© Albin Lohr-Jones/Pacific Press/LightRocket/Getty Images)

Ringing in the new year with Nowruz

The Persian New Year, also known as Nowruz, begins on the spring equinox. Read on to find out how it's being celebrated in the United States.
Jessie Montgomery playing violin on stage (© Hiroyuki Ito/Getty Images)

Black composers: Shaping America’s music

A renowned pianist explores the contributions of Black American composers in the rarefied world of classical music.
Diptych of two football players in action on the field (Left: © Seth Wenig/AP; RIght: David J. Phillip/AP)

Americans love the Super Bowl

This year's Super Bowl pits two dynamic quarterbacks against each other. But Americans' devotion to the game is about much more than football.
Collage of images of sheet music, movie posters and book covers (Movie posters © Getty Images)

U.S. copyright: Protecting authors, preserving culture

Every year in the U.S., thousands of old classics become free for use, thanks to protections in U.S. copyright law that spur creativity.
Antony Blinken wearing headphones and seated in front of microphone (State Dept.)

U.S. secretary of state’s favorite songs for ‘on the road’ or...

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is a music fan who loves both classic rock and newer sounds. Check out what he's been listening to in 2022.
Revelers celebrating in Times Square for New Year's Eve (© Craig Ruttle/AP Images)

‘Auld Lang Syne’: New year, same beloved song

As millions ring in the New Year, they'll be singing "Auld Lang Syne" during the first moments of 2022. Learn about the song's history.
DJ Kool Herc holding street sign reading 'Hip Hop Blvd' (© Steven Ferdman/Getty Images)

Hip-hop’s international influence

What are the history and origins of hip-hop? Learn more about the genre here and see how it has inspired artists around the world.