WXPN’s World Cafe invites listeners to explore Boston’s vibrant and diverse music scene with its latest Sense of Place series. From January 21 through January 31, host Raina Douris and the World Cafe team spotlight the city’s deep musical history, innovative voices, and community spirit that have shaped its sound.
“Perhaps fitting for a city famous for its universities and colleges, a common thread that runs through our stories from Boston is that of teaching and sharing,” says Douris. “From a young pianist from Afghanistan bravely raising awareness for his home country to a long-running family-owned jazz club with a mission to educate the next generation of jazz musicians, the stories in our Sense of Place: Boston series are a reminder that there is always more to learn and that sharing music is an essential part of connecting as human beings.”
The week-long series will feature exclusive interviews, musical performances, and deep dives into Boston’s iconic venues, groundbreaking artists, and inspiring community initiatives:
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Tuesday, January 21 – Club Passim: Explore the legendary folk venue in Cambridge’s Harvard Square that has hosted icons like Joan Baez and Bob Dylan, and learn how it continues to expand the boundaries of folk music.
(Host Raina Douris visits Club Passim as part of the World Cafe Sense of Place: Boston series. Photo by George Murphy.) -
Wednesday, January 22 – Jonatha Brooke Encore: Reflect on the career of this trailblazing singer-songwriter and her advice to her younger self.
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Thursday, January 23 – Wally’s Jazz Cafe: Discover the story of Wally’s, Boston’s first integrated jazz club, and its ongoing mission to nurture new generations of jazz talent.
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Friday, January 24 – Fenway Park Organist Josh Kantor & WUMB’s Boston Essential Songs: Meet the man behind Fenway’s game-day soundtrack and uncover quintessential Boston tracks curated by Albert O of WUMB.
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Monday, January 27 – Berklee’s Music Inclusion Ensemble: Learn how this groundbreaking ensemble empowers young musicians with disabilities and promotes inclusivity in music education.
(World Cafe host Raina Douris meets with Berklee’s Music Inclusion Ensemble co-founder Adrian Anantawan. Photo by George Murphy.) -
Tuesday, January 28 – Pixies Encore: Revisit the iconic band’s 2019 interview and celebrate their contributions to Boston’s alt-rock legacy.
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Wednesday, January 29 – Green Line Records: Meet the student-run label at Northeastern University fostering the next wave of Boston’s music talent.
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Thursday, January 30 – Ellis Paul Encore: Revisit a 1999 conversation with the celebrated Boston folk musician, reflecting on themes of redemption and renewal.
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Friday, January 31 – Arson Fahim: Hear the incredible journey of an Afghan composer who found refuge and creative expression in Boston. His story reflects resilience and the transformative power of music.
This series celebrates the city’s unique role in music history and its commitment to fostering creativity and community. From the intimate charm of Club Passim to the dynamic innovation of Berklee’s Music Inclusion Ensemble, Sense of Place: Boston reveals why the city remains a beacon for artists and audiences alike.
Where to Listen
Listeners in the greater Boston area can tune into World Cafe on WUMB. The show is also broadcast on 299 public radio stations across the United States. Check local listings for times or visit www.worldcafe.org for more information.
