Poster Bassist Joseph Conyers
Bass player Joseph Conyers made history in 2023 when he became one of the few Black principal players in a major American orchestra.
Jessica Griffin
Rhapsody in Black

Bassist Joseph Conyers aims to help young musicians ignite change in their communities

Rhapsody in Black - Joseph Conyers
DOWNLOAD

In 2010, Joseph Conyers became the first Black musician hired by the Philadelphia Orchestra in 36 years. Three years later, he won the audition for principal bass in the same orchestra and made history again as one of the few Black principal players in a major American orchestra.

Conyers has been in the thick of the industry as a full-time professional for 20 years. He remembers studies and research that helped determine how much progress the classical music industry was making, if any, when it came to equity and inclusion.

“I look at where we are now, and I'm a little concerned because I don't know if by the end of my time in the profession I will see the change that everyone keeps talking about,” he says. ”The idea is that one day, if we want to see real equity, that in any major city, any kid in your area could one day end up on the stage of your orchestra. Because that means every kid has a chance. That is my challenge to the industry.”

Here’s what Conyers is doing to help build that pipeline so every kid has a chance at being on that stage. It’s a program called Project 440.

“Music is the entry point into what possibility can be,” he says. “We create a community of like-minded individuals using music and other paths to creativity as the tie that allows them to work together to do projects in their community. How can we in the classical music space embrace the music of other cultures, learn from each other and use those conversations to build bonds within the community.

“That's literally Project 440 in a nutshell. It’s using music as a tool to teach these young people the things they need to be successful.”

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