Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Dr. Ø." is a lyric baritone, conductor, radio producer and host, and ethnomusicologist who studies and lives out his mission of using music to bridge diverse cultures and increase understanding to reduce human hatred. For nearly 30 years, he's served as Executive Producer and Host of Wisconsin Public Radio's The Road to Higher Ground with Jonathan Øverby, which features world music with African roots and more. Diverse musical genres, their cultural underpinnings, and their intersections drive his desire to learn and share. Øverby's travels and research have included independent excursions throughout North America, the Caribbean, Cuba, France, Germany, Ghana, India, Japan, Peru, Morocco, Poland, Scotland, Switzerland, Tanzania, and Zanzibar. Dr. Øverby has earned many awards for his commitment to education, leadership, and service, including induction into Folk Alliance International's Folk DJ Hall of Fame and Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame.