Today, we’re honored to be joined by a true cultural torchbearer — saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and Big Chief of the Congo Square Nation… Donald Harrison.

From second-line rhythms in New Orleans to classical orchestration, nouveau swing to trap-infused jazz — Donald Harrison’s musical reach is nothing short of cosmic. In this episode, we dive deep into his creative process, his groundbreaking orchestral work like the Congo Square Suite, and his vision for connecting ancestral sounds with modern innovation, including his mind-bending new project in quantum improvisation.

We talk about how his music reflects the shared soul between cities like Charleston and New Orleans — and what audiences can expect when he headlines the Charleston Jazz Festival on April 27.

Plus, we explore how Harrison is shaping the future of music through mentorship, multi-genre storytelling, and a lifetime of turning sound into spirit.

So whether you're tuning in from the Lowcountry or the Crescent City, from a porch swing or a subway ride — get ready to travel through rhythm, history, and heart.

We’re kicking off Season 5 of Travel Notes with a true global music visionary—Jacob Edgar! As an ethnomusicologist, cultural explorer, and world music tastemaker, Jacob has spent his career uncovering the sounds that shape cultures around the globe.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of ethnomusicology and its surprising breadth, explore how Putumayo World Music transformed global music marketing, and discuss how music influences our understanding of culture. Jacob also shares insights on the evolving role of music appreciation in different cultural contexts and how the digital age has shifted us from communal listening experiences to hyper-personalized curation.

Join us as we celebrate the power of music to connect, educate, and inspire—one note at a time.

Today on Travel Notes, we are featuring the American Railroad project by the Silkroad Ensemble in anticipation of their show at the Charleston Gaillard Center on November 19th. Today’s special guest, celtic harpist Maeve Gilchrist takes us behind the scenes of this monumental project.

Silkroad’s American Railroad project highlights untold stories and amplifies unheard voices from the communities who actually built the transcontinental railroad, addressing past injustices and providing a more truthful account of global diasporic contributions to the creation of the American Empire.

We also listen to two tracks off of their upcoming album, The American Railroad album which comes out on November 15th.

Tickets to American Railroad at the Charleston Gaillard Center

Silkroad Website

Maeve Gilchrist Website

Travel Notes Webpage

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