There are many contemporary choral arts institutions that prioritize the "traditional" repertoire - the Southern California-based Choral Arts Initiative is not one of them. Artistic Director Brandon Elliott joins Garrett (55:00) to talk about their new album, the power of entrepreneurship, and his unique view of diversity. Scott and Garrett share their favorites from Beyoncé's latest album, discuss the latest misstep by the Aspen Music Festival, unpack a fundraising call from the Metropolitan Opera, and lots more.

Playlist:

David Ibbett - Black Hole Symphony (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liiB5QZycNc)

Sergei Prokofiev - Symphony No. 6 (perf. SWR Symphonieorchester, Thomas Søndergård: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7G7XajHW1MI)

Young Dolph, Key Glock - Aspen

Beyoncé - CUFF IT

Beyoncé - CHURCH GIRL

Beyoncé - PLASTIC OFF THE SOFA

Beyoncé - AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM

Jeffrey Derus - "Kennedy Meadows"

Jeffrey Derus - "Journey Into Yourself"

Anthony Davis - "Audubon Ballroom"

More:

Brandon Elliott: https://www.brandon-elliott.com

Choral Arts Initiative: https://www.choralartsinitiative.org

Desus and Mero Break Up: https://www.vulture.com/2022/07/desus-and-mero-break-up-victor-lopez-manager.html

Black Hole Symphony: https://www.wgbh.org/news/arts/2022/07/22/black-hole-symphony-translates-the-sounds-of-black-holes-into-orchestral-music

Minnesota Orchestra Names Thomas Sondergard as Music Director: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/07/28/arts/music/minnesota-orchestra-thomas-sondergard.html

Aspen Music Festival Flies Swastika: https://slippedisc.com/2022/07/aspen-festival-flies-swastikas-in-the-sound-of-music/