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Composer Richard Perlmutter again takes on some of the world's most famous classical tunes, and adds fun lyrics to the music. Beethoven's Wig 2, the sequel to the original, outrageous CD, has been nominated for a Grammy. NPR's Renee Montagne talks to Perlmutter about his strategy for getting kids to have some serious fun with the classics.

Michael Tilson Thomas, a superstar in the classical music world, evokes the legacy of his grandparents in a new show. Bessie and Boris Thomashefsky were legends of Yiddish Theater.

Henry Grimes was an A-list jazz musician in the 1950s and '60s. But then he dropped out of the music scene and fell into emotional isolation. Now at 69, the bass player is making a comeback. His story concludes a series on the plight of aging jazz musicians.

In 1998, singer Rokia Traoré hit the international music scene with a unique blend of modern sounds and traditional roots. Since then, the Malian chanteuse and songwriter has gained a devoted worldwide following. She performs songs from her latest CD, Bowmboï, at Zankel Hall.

Rhythm and blues legend Solomon Burke talks about his new CD, Make Do With What You Got.

From a 12-hour marathon piano concert held last Sunday to benefit tsunami victims, we hear three pianists. First, Elena Besprovanik plays Alfred Grunfeld's Vienna Soiree. Then we hear Jenny Lin play Secreto, by Federico Mompou, follwed by Jung Lin play the Fairy Tale, Op. 34, No. 2, by Nikolai Medtner.

Singer Jill Sobule has been charming critics with her smart and witty pop music for more than a decade. For the artwork of her latest CD, Underdog Victorious, she incorporated her love of crossword puzzles. Sobule talks with NPR's Puzzlemaster Will Shortz and NPR's Liane Hansen.

When a relatively new band covers a classic track, it does so at the risk of unfavorable comparison to the original. But Los Angeles-based music supervisor and commentator Alexandra Patsavas relishes a good cover song. She shares some of her favorites.

The traditional mountain dulcimer, with its strings stretched the length of an oblong wood box, has endured for generations. Dulcimer enthusiast Peter Alway cast aside tradition to build the instrument out of Legos. He talks about his instrument with NPR's Sheilah Kast.

Composer John Debney went from his usual action and comedy work to write the score for The Passion of the Christ. The music earned him his first Oscar nomination. NPR's Andy Trudeau reviews the nominees and offers his pick for best original score.