Holiday Special: Music's Role

with Renée Fleming

René Fleming is an operatic superstar who has performed at key moments in our nation’s story, as when she sang at ground zero after 9/11. For this special episode, she talks with Kim about how music can help us mourn, heal, and celebrate as we send off 2020 (don't call) and nestle into the holidays. She also describes a few portraits that hold special meaning for her.

Special thanks to Dr. Lonnie Bunch, Secretary of the Smithsonian and the Smithsonian National Board, for making this podcast possible.

Bust length photo of a blond woman wearing black

Renée Fleming | Photo: Andrew Eccles

Enjoy these YouTube clips featuring Renée Fleming:
Irish Coffee
photo of an Irish coffee

Ingredients

  • 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 jigger Irish whiskey (1 1/2 ounces or 3 tablespoons)
  • Heavy cream, slightly whipped

 

Fill footed mug or a mug with hot water to preheat it, then empty. Pour piping hot coffee into warmed glass until it is about 3/4 full. Add the brown sugar and stir until completely dissolved. Blend in Irish whiskey. Top with a collar of the whipped heavy cream by pouring gently over back of spoon. Serve hot.