Monocle’s Steph Chungu speaks to American musician Jon Batiste about the documentary ‘American Symphony’. He shares the journey that leads up to the symphonic performance, while his partner, Suleika Jaouad, undergoes cancer treatment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hello and welcome to the Monocle Weekly.
My name is Steph Chungu.
On this week's show, I speak with American composer and singer songwriter Jon Batiste on the new documentary American Symphony.
The new documentary focuses on the rise of John's music career following his success at the 64th annual Grammys and facing a new challenge composing a classical symphony with a blend of traditional and contemporary sounds from different cultures of America.
Working with director Matthew Hyman, John's American Symphony was a feat worthwhile documenting.
During filming, John's partner, writer and advocate Seleka Jouard, was facing her own challenge, undergoing cancer treatment.
It changed the direction of the film.
Now, behind the scenes, we see John as a composer, artist, husband and caregiver.
Balancing his focus on the symphony and Celica's health, John came into Midori House to discuss a documentary.
Well, that is the dulcet tones of John Baptiste, who's with me in Midori House.
Thank you so much for coming in today.
Oh, yeah.
Before we begin, I would like to say congrats on your Grammy nominations for World Music Radio.
Oh, my goodness.
World Music Radio.
I want to start with your music career so far.
So from from studying music as a child to Juilliard, to bandleader of the Stephen Colbert late night show, to now having, well, had a symphony, how are you feeling about your career so far?
Like how you feel about your career point?
Blessed.
I've had so much.