Rhapsody in Black

Singer, rapper and flutist Lizzo was introduced to music from an early age through the church and marching band. Her love for the community marching band gave to her growing up is consistently influencing her music. …

Composer Fela Sowande was introduced to classical and church music from an early age. While he was successful as a musician, he moved to London in …

Violinist and composer George Bridgetower was good friends with Ludwig Van Beethoven. So much so that Beethoven wrote a violin sonata just for him. …

Bass baritone Ryan Speedo Green has experienced an all-too-familiar upbringing that is similar to many troubled Black youths in America. But with the support of an outstanding teacher, he beat the odds to become a …

George Walker is credited with many firsts throughout his career. Despite all his success, his career was greatly stunted by racism and neglect. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Undine Smith Moore knew the importance of music education from an early age. But despite her success, she still doubted her abilities and accomplishments as a composer, citing racism. Find out more in the latest episode …

Martin Luther King Jr.’s life often focuses on his pivotal moments such as his "I Have a Dream" speech. But music filled and inspired his most intimate moments that made him the leader he is remembered as today. Find …

Singer Paul Robeson had a commanding physical presence, but it was his intense bass voice that led him to popularity. His successful career as an …

Composer Adolphus Hailstork has had his music performed by major orchestras and ensembles around the world since the 1970s. He has always used his …

Choral conductor Anton Armstrong has been sharing the power and beauty of singing since he was a child. His work in choral music involves breaking …

Guadeloupean Creole composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de St. George, was born to a slave woman and rose to join French aristocratic circles as a …

Composer Jessie Montgomery is in a constant state of creation. She actively plays violin and teaches, while composing award-winning pieces. Find out …

Composer William Grant Still is the record holder for many firsts in the Black classical world. His ‘Afro-American Symphony’ was the first to be …

Composer Omar Thomas remembers never playing music in concert band that celebrates Black traditions while he was growing up. He has made it his mission to create music that speak directly to the issues of …

Composer Nkeiru Okoye doesn’t fit neatly into any kind of classical category. Her compositions showcase her genius by incorporating different types of musical styles that help create a sound that’s uniquely hers. Find …

Composer Scott Joplin is best known for his ragtime piano compositions that include ‘The Maple Leaf Rag’ and ‘The Entertainer.’ Like many other Black artists, he composed so much more than that! Find out more about …

Composer Julius Eastman’s personal philosophy was “to be what I am to the fullest. Black to the fullest, a musician to the fullest, and a homosexual …

Baritone Henry T. Burleigh is a forgotten figure in American music history. His singing caught the attention of Antonin Dvorak, who made Burleigh his assistant. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in …

Contralto Marian Anderson sang her way to the top. Despite racism and sexism, she found support from first lady Eleanor Roosevelt and sang at the …

Justin Holland is not the first name that people think of when asked about the classical guitar. It might come as a surprise that one of the best …

Margaret Bonds dealt with racism as she broke barriers for future generations of Black women composers. Find out how the words and friendship of renowned Black novelist Langston Hughes helped her with that struggle in …

Composer Florence Price dealt with many systemic barriers in her pursuit of musical greatness. In the first episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast, find out how her hard work paid off after she won a composition …

Listen to our new podcast Rhapsody in Black, an exploration of classical music that’s aesthetically and uncompromisingly Black. Tesfa Wondemagegnehu hosts this 5-minute weekly program, which launches Thursday. Listen to …