Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Why musician Andrew Bird learned to appreciate isolation

Season 2019 Episode 109 | 3m 29s

Andrew Bird is a multi-instrumentalist who has created field recordings in a Utah canyon, a Lisbon aqueduct and the Los Angeles River. Known for his virtuosic violin playing and songwriting styles that defy traditional classification, Bird took an unusual approach to developing his music -- one that involved prolonged isolation. Bird offers his brief but spectacular take on playing to the room.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
Trump sets new tariffs on trading partners, covering nearly all U.S. imports
Aid worker describes crisis in Venezuela, one month after devastating earthquakes
Jason Epperson on the history found at national parks
Brooks and Marcus on the Iran conflict becoming a 'forever war'
News Wrap: CDC reports more measles cases so far this year than in all of 2025
How volunteers with 3D printers make weapons for Ukraine
Ocular artistry: Eye prosthetics become canvases for self-expression
July 24, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
Trump reluctant to pressure China after claiming election interference
Trump threatens 'major military punishment' after Houthi attacks on tankers in Red Sea