Poster Errollyn Wallen
Errollyn Wallen is a leading figure in today’s classical music world.
Robert McFadzean/Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Rhapsody in Black

Errollyn Wallen's compositions are out of this world

Rhapsody in Black - Errolyn Wallen
DOWNLOAD

Composer Errollyn Wallen has had teachers tell her that classical music is “not her sort of music.” She pointed out to Gramophone in 2021 that “little was expected of her, but her career has been not so much about proving others wrong as a case of proving herself right.” She has done just that. She has composed for Queen Elizabeth, the 2012 London Paralympics — and her music has been to space. In 2006, Wallen inspired Canadian astronaut Steve MacLean to take some of her music with him on a space shuttle mission as he orbited the Earth 186 times.

Credits

Host: Venon Neal

Producer: Dan Nass

Writers: Andrea Blain and Scott Blankenship

Additional music selections: Jeffrey Yelverton

Executive Producer: Julie Amacher

Love the music?

Donate by phone
1-800-562-8440

Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.

Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.

YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.

More Ways to Give

Your Donation

$5/month
$10/month
$15/month
$20/month
$

Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

VIEW ALL EPISODES

Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

Celebrating Julia Perry

Celebrating Julia Perry

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.

5:00
Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
Composer Jessie Montgomery uses music to connect with the world
5:00
Cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason is a young and promising classical music superstar
5:00
Pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason grew up in a family surrounded by music

Pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason grew up in a family surrounded by music

Raised in a family surrounded by music, pianist Isata Kanneh-Mason has worked hard to become a successful concert and recording artist. She had help along the way, primarily from her parents, who made sacrifices to ensure that she and her six younger siblings have all had wonderful music educations. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

5:00
Roberta Flack was the shepherd of a new R&B sound

Roberta Flack was the shepherd of a new R&B sound

Pop artist Roberta Flack grew up classically trained and continued to love the music, even when revolutionizing the R&B scene. Find out more about her life in this episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Melanie DeMore uses her voice as a 'weapon of mass connection'
5:00
Awadagin Pratt is opening doors for young Black classical artists

Awadagin Pratt is opening doors for young Black classical artists

Awadagin Pratt is a professor of piano at the University of Cincinnati and the recipient of multiple awards. He’s never shied away from talking about his experiences as a Black man in classical music, and he’s working to make it a more welcoming space. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

5:00
Gil Scott-Heron's message for the 1970s — and today
5:00
Moses Hogan created community through worship
4:59
VIEW ALL EPISODES

About Rhapsody in Black

Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.

Subscribe to the podcast:  Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon MusicTuneInRSS Feed

About Rhapsody in Black
YourClassical Radio
0:00
0:00