Smithsonian Folkways Recordings
Smithsonian Folkways Recordings is the nonprofit record label of the Smithsonian Institution. We are dedicated to supporting cultural diversity and increased understanding among peoples through the documentation, preservation, and dissemination of sound. We believe that musical and cultural diversity contributes to the vitality and quality of life throughout the world. Through the dissemination of audio recordings and educational materials we seek to strengthen people's engagement with their own cultural heritage and to enhance their awareness and appreciation of the cultural heritage of others. Our mission is the legacy of Moses Asch, who founded Folkways Records in 1948 to document "people's music," spoken word, instruction, and sounds from around the world. The Smithsonian acquired Folkways from the Asch estate in 1987, and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings has continued the Folkways commitment to cultural diversity, education, increased understanding, and lively engagement with the world of sound. Smithsonian Folkways has expanded on Asch's legacy, adding several other record labels to the collections and releasing over 300 new recordings that document and celebrate the sounds of the world around us.
A few recordings from Smithsonian Folkways Recordings. Click here for more.
Sublime bel canto lyrical songs, the guttural recitative of nomadic oral poetry, lively humoresques, and poignant laments...
This collection of old-time social and instrumental string-band music spotlights instrumental prowess...
Colombia is one of those great musical quarries of the Americas, as have been the American South, the Antilles, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina...
Recorded in 1993 and 1994, this recording focuses on the music of three indigenous forest societies of western Indonesia...
The fiddle and piano reign in Cape Breton! When the Beatons play, the dancing feet of family, friends, and fans pound out the vibrant...
The harmony between humanity and nature constitutes an ideal state in Japanese music. In spring, the beautiful...
Features recent innovations and traditional roots of this potent music. Cuts from live Vodou ceremonies are juxtaposed with...
Nineteen culturally diverse songs by legendary performers delight youngsters...