Poster Rachel Barton Pine
Violinist Rachel Barton Pine has been an ally for Black voices for over 25 years.
Provided
Rhapsody in Black

Rachel Barton Pine is an ally for Black voices and music

Rhapsody in Black - Rachel Barton Pine
DOWNLOAD

Violinist Rachel Barton Pine has been an ally for Black voices for more than 25 years.

She has championed the work of lesser-known composers throughout her career and released a recording of violin concertos by Black composers in 1997, over 25 years ago. Additionally, Barton Pine’s foundation was created not only to provide a pathway for future classical musicians but also to support music by Black composers.

“It's just great music,” she says. “And we've all been missing out by not having it in our lives for all these years. And that's the most exciting thing, that people are just like, ‘Wow, this stuff is great.’ And I honestly think it would have been part of the music that we know and love all along, if not for historic discrimination.”

An updated version of her 1997 recording was released in 2022. It now includes a newly discovered violin concerto by Florence Price.

When she’s not playing or recording classical music, she goes for something she originally thought was completely different: heavy metal. Then she discovered these worlds were not so far apart after all. To prove it, Earl Maneein, another metal-loving violinist, has composed a violin concerto for Rachel. It’s described as a mash-up of Dmitri Shostakovich’s music and metal.

Credits

Host: Vernon Neal

Producer: Dan Nass

Writers: Andrea Blain and Scott Blankenship

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

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
Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
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
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
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