Rhapsody in Black

Clarinetist Anthony McGill is the principal clarinetist with the New York Philharmonic, the first Black musician to hold a principal chair in the …

Randall Goosby has been playing violin since he was 7, including studying with legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman, and the trajectory of his career …

Afro-Brazilian guitarist Plínio Fernandes’ style is a unique alchemy of the Brazilian folk and popular songs he grew up with, Latin classical …

Pianist André Watts made his debut at 16 when he was featured in a Young People’s Concert, with Leonard Bernstein conducting. Bernstein was blown away by the performance! Find out more in the latest episode of the …

Flautist, composer and producer Allison Loggins-Hull is often described as someone whose work “defies classification.” Co-founder of the …

Flautist, composer and producer Allison Loggins-Hull is often described as someone whose work “defies classification.” Co-founder of the …

Known for singing roles in operas that demand his particular Bel Canto voice and leading projects that uplift music by African American composers, …

Pianist Awadagin Pratt is a world-class pianist who has earned awards, international competitions and an Avery Fisher Career Grant. He has never shied away from talking about his experiences as a Black man in the …

In 2021, Terence Blanchard became the first Black composer to have an opera staged at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Whether it’s performing or …

A musician of multiple hats and genres, Damien Sneed is recognized today as a pianist, vocalist, organist, composer, conductor, arranger, producer …

Despite facing racial bias within the opera world, soprano Grace Bumbry rose to international fame and created a sensation with her impactful …

Explore the legendary career of Stevie Wonder, the influential artist who transformed R&B and funk music. From his soulful voice to his …

In 1965, saxophonist John Coltrane released his iconic album ‘A Love Supreme.’ Explore the spiritual journey captured in this jazz opus, its unique …

Tania León has been hailed as an astoundingly original composer and a music ambassador who continues to impact classical music significantly. Her story inspires, showcasing her perseverance and commitment to excellence …

Conductor Roderick Cox is notable for his dynamic, engaging performances, often highlighting works by underrepresented composers and exploring various musical styles. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody …

Mary Lou Williams' artistic vision and her ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and unique composition are perfect for concert halls and jazz clubs. Find out more in the latest episode of the …

Gil Scott-Heron, the self-proclaimed "bluesologist," emerged as a courageous musical figure during the 1970s and 80s, skillfully blending social …

Angélique Kidjo is a powerhouse of African music and a voice for social justice. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

The Imani Winds has had faith in commissioning new works that uplift the profile of BIPOC composers and performers. They have been doing so for over a quarter century. Find out more in the latest episode of the …

American violinist and music educator Aaron Dworkin saw a need to diversify classical music and made it his life’s work. Find out more in the latest …

Composer Edmond Dédé is a free Creole of Color conductor and violinist from New Orleans. His music took him to Mexico, Algiers and France. Find out …

Trumpeter Wynton Marsalis is internationally known for his outstanding career in jazz. Many don’t know that he has also found success in classical music. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' …

Composer Julia Perry for years existed only in the margins. Lost to time because of structural racism and sexism in America, her works are finally …

Composer Errollyn Wallen has had teachers tell her that classical music is ‘not her sort of music’ and has had to deal with being underestimated her …

Billie Holiday's 'Strange Fruit' is an unforgettable and mesmerizing classic that speaks to racial violence and anti-lynching legislation. Find out …

Composer and educator William Dawson dedicated his life to the promotion and cultivation of Black American music traditions. Find out more in the …

Jazz trumpeter Miles Davis redefined the genre in subtle and caustic ways. While he had great success he was always restless for innovation. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Founded in 1995 by Everett McCorvey, the American Spiritual Ensemble teaches about the history and traditions of enslaved people in America through the power of music. Find out more in the latest episode of the …

Jazz pianist and harpist Alice Coltrane studied classical and gospel early on. Jazz, on the other hand, helped her develop her own creativity, …

Pop artist Roberta Flack grew up classically trained and continued to love the music even when revolutionizing the R&B scene. Find out more in …