Rhapsody in Black

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 the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Meet Vernon Neal, the host of the podcast ‘Rhapsody in Black,’ where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music.

Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson was a skilled pianist and conductor who composed and performed in the classical, television, theater, jazz and film industries, while also advocating for the Black community in the performing arts. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Organist Alcee Chriss III breaks down barriers and attracts new audiences to organ music through his incorporation of jazz and gospel. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Seth Parker Woods is a cellist who wholeheartedly embraces new compositions, fosters artistic innovation and pushes the boundaries of classical music. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

The award-winning string duo Black Violin has been mixing classical and hip-hop for over 20 years. The group’s goal is to make the violin and viola sound naturally and unabashedly Black. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

The String Queens are a woman-powered string trio based out of Washington, D.C., who have made a difference in their community and in the classical music arena through their nontraditional programming and performances. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Composer Julia Perry for years existed only in the margins. But her works are finally getting renewed attention. Find out more about this amazing composer’s legacy in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

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 the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Composer Florence Price dealt with many systemic barriers in her pursuit of musical greatness. Find out how her hard work paid off after she won a composition competition and formed a partnership with Chicago Symphony Orchestra conductor Frederick Stock.