Reclaiming the Sound Waves: with Connor Chee
Navajo pianist and composer Connor Chee has embarked on a mission to translate traditional Navajo vocables to the modern piano. Host Scott Blankenship talks with Chee about his artistic process, the importance of preserving Navajo music for future generations, and the Land Back movement. Music includes solo piano compositions from Chee's recordings, plus the premiere of Unbroken: Music for the Navajo Code Talkers, commissioned by American Public Media.
Host
Scott Blankenship
Scott is a National Host/Producer for APMG with over 30 years of experience in public broadcasting.
When he isn’t on the air, his attention is focused on projects that support APMG’s diversity and inclusion efforts.
Scott has worked to commission new music by composers of color and women.
He also writes for the Rhapsody in Black podcast and YourClassical Storytime.
Length
One hour
Show Clock
ContentDepot File Transfer
Playlist Available: September 8, 2023
Promo spot available: September 8, 2023
Program rundown available: September 8, 2023
Date content will be uploaded: September 29, 2023
Broadcast Window
October 1, 2023 - November 30, 2023
Broadcast Rights
Affiliate stations may carry this program multiple times before December 1, 2023. The program must be carried in its entirety. No excerpting is permitted. Simulcast streaming rights are available for this program. Prior to carrying this program, stations must contact their American Public Media Station Relations Representative.
PLAYLIST
Mozart: Piano sonata no. 16 K. (:30 clip)
Navajo Vocable for Piano no. 9
Navajo Vocable for Piano no. 10
Navajo Vocable for Piano no. 11
Navajo Vocable for Piano no. 12
From Connor Chee - The Navajo Piano, Wild Saguaro Records 888174 863238
Horses
Weaving
Fry Bread
Stars
From Scenes from Dinétah, Wild Saguaro Records 195269 021849
Melody for Kinyaa'áanii Nos. 1 and 2 (:20 excerpt)
Commission for carillon at University of Michigan
Beginnings
Air Spirits
Resilience
From Emergence, Wild Saguaro Records 19192 4821649
APMG Commission: Unbroken – Music for the Navajo Code Talkers
Movement 1
Movement 2
Movement 3
Movement 4
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