A variety of songs and a few comments from outside the limits of permissible debate.

In honor of his 340th birthday this week, an exploration of the rebellious genius of J. S. Bach. You’ve heard his greatest hits. Now come along and meet the man you’ve never really known.

A moving portrait of Antonio Carlos Jobim, Elis Regina, and Helo Pinheira, the Girl from Ipanema.

The thriving jazz scene black American musicians created in Paris in the 20s and 30s. Above, Eddie South.

Josephine Baker leading the way for black American musicians fleeing Jim Crow for Europe.

Music to warm your heart.

Music to “weight [your] eyelids down and steep [your] senses in forgetfullness.”

Sampling some of the standouts for this year’s Oscar nominations for Best Original Song and Best Soundtrack.

A celebration upon the 50th anniversary of Keith Jarrett’s masterpiece, the Köln Concert.

Music of the heavens and a few words on the close approach of Mars.

Music for the long cold month of January, and a brief review of Yip Harburg, above.