Click on Classical: Shape note singing, minimalism debated, vocalists learning from instrumentalists

Every Monday morning at 9:15, I join John Birge on Classical MPR to talk about stories we're featuring on our websites. Here are the features we'll be discussing today.

Shape note singing is one of America's oldest and most unique choral traditions—and it's going strong in Minnesota. Emily Feld visited a local gathering of shape note singers and shared what she learned.

Is minimalist music relaxing—or maddening? There are partisans on either side of the debate, but Rebecca Wishnia argues that no matter who you are, there's some minimalist music you'll enjoy.

Earlier, Gwen Hoberg explored the question of what instrumentalists can learn from vocalists. This week, she turns the question around and asks vocalists what they've learned from instrumentalists.