Minnesota has claim to a wealth of creativity; music is no exception. Almost every genre can be heard within our state’s borders. The results range from a simple act of joy, to an influence that reverberates far beyond (the “Minneapolis Sound” is a prime example). The collection below is an introduction to the diverse and talented artists who have called Minnesota home, and the art they share with all of us.
March 22, 1981 - This is the premiere broadcast of Saint Paul Sunday Morning, a new series exploring the unique world of chamber music. This first program is a musical celebration in honor of Johann Sebastian Bach's birthday. Members of The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra with the Dale Warland Chamber Singers join Host Bill McGlaughlin in the Studio M for lively conversation and music-making in a relaxed and informal studio setting.
May 31, 1981 - Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and Layton "Skip" James visit Saint Paul Sunday Morning in the studio. Program includes commentary by host Bill McGlaughlin and interview segments where Italian Renaissance and Baroque styles are discussed.
July 5, 1981 - Guitarists Sharon Isbin and Jeffrey Van visit Saint Paul Sunday Morning in the studio. Program includes commentary by host Bill McGlaughlin and interview segments.
August 19, 1982 - MPR’s Dan Olson walks downtown Minneapolis to explore the sounds of street musicians. Olson stops and talks with various performers about their vocation.
December 11, 1982 - On this Weekend program, MPR’s Dan Olson talks with the Buttermilk Hill String Band. Members Rachel Nelson, fiddle and mandolin; Paula Brandes, guitar; and Liz Olds, banjo, discuss being street musicians. The band also perform songs and stories for the holiday season, as well as answer questions and take requests from listeners.
July 26, 1984 - Twin Cities film critic Phil Anderson shares his review of the film Purple Rain, which was made by famous local musician Prince. Anderson describes it as a musical story of characters.
November 9, 1984 - MPR’s Jo Ann Shroyer profiles Minnesota jazz saxophonist, composer, and educator Irv Williams. Shroyer interviews Williams about his career, the local jazz scene, and on being honored with “Irv Williams Day” on November 24th.
November 12, 1984 - MPR’s Gary Eichten gets music critic Jon Bream’s take on the music phenomenon of Prince and the genius of his artistry.
December 26, 1984 - MPR’s Stephen Smith profiles Prince Rogers Nelson. Segment includes interview with critic Jon Bream, author of the book "Prince: Inside the Purple Reign," and local evangelists who find Prince’s music offensive.
December 27, 1984 - MPR’s Gary Eichten profiles the local bar band Willie and the Bees as the band prepares to call it quits. Segment presents an interview with band founder Willie Murphy about the band and their sound.