Musicians press Congress for more funding for arts

Linda Ronstadt and Wynton Marsalis testified yesterday to Congress in favor of more public funding for the arts. (Jacquelyn Martin/associated press)

WASHINGTON - Musicians Josh Groban, Wynton Marsalis, and Linda Ronstadt pressed Congress yesterday for more public funding for the arts to help sustain programs during the nation's economic slump.

Marsalis said it's critical for the nation to reevaluate its priorities during the financial crisis to ensure the best aspects of US culture aren't lost to younger generations because of scarce funding. The acclaimed trumpet player said he learned key lessons about jazz when he was young by playing with some of the original members of Duke Ellington's band.

"Around the world, music links generations old and young," Marsalis told lawmakers. "For some reason in our country, we decided we were going to allow the younger generation to be separated.

"We have left our kids exposed to business interests," he said of divergent tastes in music and culture, "and after 30 or 40 years of that, we're shocked."

Marsalis testified before a House subcommittee, along with Groban and Ronstadt. Supporters packed the hearing room wearing "Arts Jobs" pins.

Ronstadt, 62, said she's dismayed when schoolchildren can't sing a song as simple as "Happy Birthday" in the correct pitch.

"Not the children's fault," she said, adding that young people need to hear more live music. "They think music comes from their laptops or their iPods."

Groban, 28, said he was immersed in art and music at a young age. In high school, he attended the Interlochen Arts Camp in Michigan, which frequently receives the kinds of federal arts grants that Groban asked Congress to support.

He credited his arts education with teaching him more than simply how to read music.

"There is no better place than a theatrical production to test the characteristics of humility, work ethic, patience, teamwork, and a commitment to a common goal," Groban said.