Washington, District of Columbia, USA – The Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage has announced the launch of its highly anticipated web site, Smithsonian Global Sound.
The Web site offers digital downloads of music and sound from around the world. The site has a wealth of educational content and downloads are accompanied by extensive liner notes. “Our goal is to encourage local musicians and traditions around
the planet through international recognition, the payment of royalties, and support for regional archives.”
The first track sold was “Tarab” by Famau, Harambee Music Club from the album Music of the Waswahili of Lamu, Kenya, Vol. 3: Secular Music–an eight
and a half minute track of drum, harmonium, and bongo. “Some lucky person is walking around right now jamming to that track on their iPod while reading
the liner notes and benefiting the musicians of Lamu.”
Subscriptions are available for educational institutions.
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central
