David Amram: Composer and Activist

With a background in Western art, music, jazz, and several world musics, David Amram is an American composer for whom the adjective "eclectic" is entirely fitting. In this interview, Amram looks back on some of the key moments of his life (growing up on a farm in rural Pennsylvania, playing jazz with the masters of the bebop and post-bop eras), discusses a range of his Jewish-related works, and shares his own philosophy of Jewish music. Interview conducted at Ellis Island by Neil W. Levin and Barry Serota.

Note: This recording has been lightly edited to enhance public access.

Date: October 22, 1998

Credit: Milken Family Foundation