Cultural Diplomacy: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are planning new “Days of Azerbaijani Culture and Art” in Bukhara, aiming to deepen long-running brotherhood through music and arts institutions. Jazz & Community: Toledo’s Great Lakes Jazz Festival returns Sept. 12 with a full day of free outdoor sets and an award presentation. Classical Spotlight: Kentucky Poet Laureate Silas House’s words get a musical premiere in “The Songs of Silas,” composed with Louisville Orchestra director Teddy Abrams and performed by baritone Chad Sloan. Vocal Recital: UAM’s Division of Music hosts mezzo-soprano Claire McCahan (NFMC Young Artist Winner) Sept. 17 in a free public concert. Dance Day: The Kravis Center runs National Dance Day Sept. 19 with free workshops across hip-hop, ballroom, jazz funk and more. Music in Real Life: A Loma Linda doctor played Bach on cello for a veteran before amputation surgery, using music as comfort and confidence. Major Loss: Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Cassandra Wilson has died at 70 in Jackson, Mississippi. Live Music & Film: Detroit’s Senate Theater turns 100 with a centennial run that brings back the silent film “The Volga Boatman” with live organ accompaniment. Festival News: Iceland Airwaves reveals its final 2026 wave of artists and day splits. Music Industry: George Michael’s “The Faith Tour” live album (with unreleased recordings) is set for Nov. 6, 2026.