In curating my own version of the Golden Record, from 27 down to 10, I focused on representing the diversity and creativity of human expression through timeless works that continue to resonate across cultures and centuries. I chose pieces in an attempt to highlight both individuality and shared humanity, showing how music connects us beyond language or geography. While also trying to  avoid more era-specific genres, I aimed for selections that reflect emotion, beauty, and the inventive spirit that defines us, and snuck in a song or two that I genuinely enjoy. I also appreciate that the Golden Record exists in analog form, a durable medium that reminds us both of what we preserve and what may fade as our digital culture evolves.

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1. Bach, Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F. First Movement
A masterpiece of Western classical music, showcasing harmony, structure, and creative genius.

2. Beethoven, String Quartet No. 13 in B flat, Opus 130, Cavatina
Intimate and deeply expressive, illustrating the emotional depth of human music-making.

3. raga, “Jaat Kahan Ho”
A classical raga capturing devotion and spiritual reflection, highlighting India’s rich musical heritage.

4. ch’in, “Flowing Streams”
Evokes serenity and connection with nature, demonstrating the elegance of traditional Japanese music.

5. “Izlel je Delyo Hagdutin”
A powerful folk song with strong cultural identity, reflecting human resilience and pride.

6. Georgian S.S.R., chorus, “Tchakrulo”
Polyphonic singing symbolizing communal strength, tradition, and unity.

7. Percussion
Vibrant rhythms representing celebration, communal life, and the human love of movement.

8. panpipes and drum
Joyful music tied to ritual and community, demonstrating the universality of ceremonial sound.

9. “Melancholy Blues”
Jazz expressing emotion and creativity, connecting cultural history to human struggle and resilience.

10. “Dark Was the Night”
Wordless blues conveying universal human emotion, endurance, sorrow, and hope.

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By curating these pieces, I’m reminded that what we choose to preserve shapes our collective memory. Just as digitization decides what survives in the digital age, selecting these 10 works highlights the enduring creativity, diversity, and shared humanity that we want future generations or even distant civilizations to remember.