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. With 20 years in the industry, Conyers is making strides to open the barriers of entry to the world of classical music so every kid has the opportunity to be on stage.

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

Miles Davis reinvented the jazz scene

Miles Davis reinvented the jazz scene

Jazz trumpeter Miles Davis redefined the genre in subtle and caustic ways. While he had great success he was always restless for innovation. Find out more in the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

5:00
Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
Quincy Jones was a legend across genres and decades

Quincy Jones was a legend across genres and decades

At his core, Quincy Jones was a composer and arranger whose voice was shaped by the world of classical music. His ability to weave Black musical traditions into classical frameworks opened doors for new generations of Black and Brown composers. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

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
Pianist Michelle Cann inspires next generation as a noted music teacher
5:00
Melanie DeMore uses her voice as a 'weapon of mass connection'
5:00
Composer Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson was an advocate for the Black Community
5:00
John Coltrane captures a spiritual journey in 'A Love Supreme'

John Coltrane captures a spiritual journey in 'A Love Supreme'

In 1965, saxophonist John Coltrane released his iconic album ‘A Love Supreme.’ Explore the spiritual journey captured in this jazz opus, its unique composition and its enduring influence on musicians worldwide. Find out more in the latest episode of 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
Flutist, composer and producer Allison Loggins-Hull 'defies classification'
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
YourClassical Radio
0:00
0:00