I came to the United States from Pakistan in 1964 for graduate studies at University of Maryland, College Park.

Each year in the last week of January, up to sixty people march from one village to another, with clanging bells strapped on their backs.

In this interview, Tmbata answers questions about their American and Armenian inspirations, the importance of Armenian folk music, and what they want to do when get to D.C. for the Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

Happy Fourth of July! Before the rainy weather drove us inside the Arts and Industries Building, experts and artisans from California and Basque country shared their traditions and innovations with visitors on the National Mall.

Day two of the Folklife Festival ended with a welcome surprise of cross-culture.

This year at the Folklife Fest we celebrate the Basques,
Plus the sounds of California, in kimonos and in masks.
They’re telling stories, singing songs, and cooking fancy snacks,
And if you’re curious about them, all you have to do is ask!

Over the first three days of the Folklife Festival, Ramón Gutiérrez worked away in The Studio to build a requinto jarocho, a string instrument native to Veracruz, Mexico. On the fourth day, he finished the instrument and immediately launched into song.

The 2016 Smithsonian Folklife Festival began on June 29 with a ceremony in the Smithsonian’s newly reopened Arts and Industries Building.

A warm breezy day brought another round of cultural curiosities and explorations on the National Mall. It was our busiest day so far this year, with each tent—whether music, discussion, cheese making, or otherwise—continuously packed.

Nancy Sekizawa has a voice like a knife. Her piercing alto rings so sharp and clear you can almost see it.