DONATE
Back to: American Masters
Thomas Wiggins: Composing the Future
October 22, 2024
An African American composer and pianist known as one of the greatest musicians of the 19th century, Thomas Wiggins (1849-1908) was blind from birth and likely autistic. Although born into slavery, Wiggins was the first African American to perform at the White House, and toured throughout the U.S., South America, and Europe.
TV Schedule
Full Episodes
Preview | Hannah Arendt: Facing Tyranny
S39E5
Discover Hannah Arendt, one of the most fearless political writers of modern times.
Janis Ian: Breaking Silence
S39E4
Trace the life and music of “Society’s Child” folk icon and LGBTQ+ advocate Janis Ian....
Sarah Thankam Mathews: After All This
May 21, 2025
Follow author Sarah Thankam Mathews as pressure mounts to follow up her acclaimed debut novel....
Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps
May 6, 2025
Follow the Broadway choreographer as she elevates the possible with bold explorations of movement....
Ten Times Better
May 5, 2025
The story of George Lee, a pioneering Asian dancer who later became a Vegas blackjack dealer....
Daveed Diggs Takes on Cyberpunk Rap
April 24, 2025
Rapper and actor Daveed Diggs on his creative process as a rapper and songwriter.
Art Spiegelman: Disaster is My Muse
S39E3
Explore the career of cartoonist Art Spiegelman and his award-winning graphic novel Maus.
LIZA: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story
S39E2
Take an intimate look into the life and career of screen and stage icon Liza Minnelli.
The Disappearance of Miss Scott
S39E1
Learn about jazz artist Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own TV show.
Brenda Lee: Rockin' Around
S38E6
Discover the life of singer Brenda Lee and her musical hits spanning genres and decades.
Brad Lomax: Creating Communities of Care
October 29, 2024
Explore Brad Lomax’s under-reported contributions to the early disability justice movement....
Celestine Tate Harrington: Building a Legacy
October 15, 2024
The story of a disabled street musician who fought for parental rights.
Daniel K. Inouye: Life of Service
October 8, 2024
Explore the story of the U.S. Senator for Hawai’i who championed the cause of justice and...
Judy-Lynn del Rey: The Galaxy Gal
October 1, 2024
Explore the story of a woman with dwarfism who revolutionized the world of science fiction...
Julia Alvarez: A Life Reimagined
S38E5
Explore the story of writer Julia Alvarez, who blazed a trail for a generation of Latino authors....
Blake Edwards: A Love Story in 24 Frames
S38E4
Explore the story of filmmaker Blake Edwards, known for his comedies like the "Pink Panther"...
The Incomparable Mr. Buckley
S38E3
Discover the intellectual evolution and political legacy of William F. Buckley, Jr.
Moynihan
S38E2
Discover the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator and diplomat Daniel Patrick Moynihan.
View More Programs
Support WFYI. We can't do it without you.