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American Masters
How Janis Ian wrote “Society’s Child”
Janis Ian was inspired to write “Society’s Child” after observing an interracial couple on her school bus. Ian wrote the song at just 14 years old, imagining the societal pressures the couple may have been under.
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53:11
Trace the journey of one of America’s greatest choral music conductors.
1:52:53
Explore the entertainer’s life with unprecedented access to his archives. Director's cut.
1:24:03
See a new side of innovative writer Edgar Allan Poe, best known for Gothic horror tales.
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53:37
Today he is known as a kitchen supernova, but Jacques Pépin's career began humbly.
53:11
Today’s American food movement can be traced back to one man: James Beard.
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1:23:10
Ric Burns’ documentary on the rich, 75-year history of the preeminent ballet company.
1:23:11
Composer Marvin Hamlisch gave the world "A Chorus Line," "The Way We Were," and much more.
53:20
Explore the creative genius of I.M. Pei as he reshapes the future of architecture in China
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1:23:09
The first film biography about the celebrated author, Louis May Alcott.
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3:25:42
Explore musician Bob Dylan's evolution from folk troubadour to iconic rock star.