Poster Imani Winds
The word "Imani" means "faith" in Swahili, a trait exemplified by the Imani Winds.
Provided
Rhapsody in Black

Imani Winds have faith in music as their core value

Rhapsody in Black - Imani Winds
DOWNLOAD

“Imani” means “faith” in Swahili, so flutist Valerie Coleman formed Imani Winds more than 25 years ago with faith in mind. First and foremost, Coleman had faith in what a professional music ensemble could mean to underrepresented communities. She also had faith in how commissioning new works could lift the profile of BIPOC composers and performers. Across a quarter of a century, the work and influence of Imani Winds have proven that all that faith has not been misplaced.

Musical selections from Imani Winds

Mongo Santamaria’s Afro Blue

Afro Blue is important to Black music history because it was the first jazz standard built on a typical African 3:2 cross-rhythm, or hemiola. John Coltrane, the Doors and other popular performers would go on to cover this chart.

Valerie Coleman's Umoja

Umoja, derived from the Swahili term for "unity," is the foundational principle of the African Diaspora holiday known as Kwanzaa. Initially, it was a simple composition for a women's choir, channeling the essence of "tribal unity" reminiscent of a vibrant drum circle. This musical piece conveyed a sense of communal history through the traditional "call and response" structure, employing the power of repetition within a captivating sing-song melody.

Heitor Villa-Lobos’ Quintette en Forme de Choros

The quintet exhibits a fluid structure, comprising five expansive sections that flow seamlessly without interruption while allowing for further division into smaller subsections. The transition from one major section to the next is distinguished by distinct alterations in texture and tempo, signifying a deliberate shift in the musical landscape. At its core, the composition embraces rhythmic freedom that permeates throughout, evident in the frequent fluctuations of meter and tempo. This intentional departure from strict rhythmic constraints contributes to a sense of spontaneity, allowing the music to breathe and evolve organically. Furthermore, this rhythmic flexibility is complemented by deliberate tonal freedom, enabling exploring a wide range of harmonic possibilities.

Credits

Host: Vernon 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

Alice Coltrane uses music to heal and find peace

Alice Coltrane uses music to heal and find peace

Jazz pianist and harpist Alice Coltrane studied classical and gospel early on. Jazz, on the other hand, helped her develop her own creativity, improvisation and expression. Find out more on the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

5:00
Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
Errollyn Wallen's compositions are out of this world

Errollyn Wallen's compositions are out of this world

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 whole life. Now she is one of the United Kingdom’s leading composers. Find out more in the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Pianist Michelle Cann inspires next generation as a noted music teacher
5:00
 Violinist George Bridgetower left his mark on Beethoven
5:00
Composer Jessie Montgomery uses music to connect with the world
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
Legendary rocker Jimi Hendrix loved classical music

Legendary rocker Jimi Hendrix loved classical music

Jimi Hendrix, who set London’s club scene ablaze and literally set his guitar ablaze while performing at Woodstock, also had a burning desire to study classical music. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

5:00
Imani Winds have faith in music as their core value

Imani Winds have faith in music as their core value

The players of the Imani Winds have had faith in commissioning new works that uplift the profile of BIPOC composers and performers. They have been doing so for more than 25 years. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

5:00
Chi-Chi Nwanoku champions diverse music in Europe
5:00
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