Poster The String Queens
The String Queens is an ensemble made up of violist Dawn Johnson, cellist Élise Sharp and violinist Kendall Isadore.
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Rhapsody in Black

Woman-powered trio String Queens making a difference in the world

Rhapsody in Black - The String Queens
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The String Queens are a woman-powered string trio based out of Washington, D.C., who have made a difference in their community and in the classical music arena. They’re teachers during the week and concert performers on weekends.

Individually and as a trio, violinist Kendall Isadore, violist Dawn Johnson and cellist Elise Sharp have earned dozens of awards and recognitions for their musical and educational accomplishments. Isadore also is classically trained in piano and voice, Johnson graduated from the Juilliard School in New York City, and Sharp trained under the legendary Mstislav Rostropovich. 

The ensemble is also as comfortable playing Carnegie Hall as it is collaborating with pop stars, including Demi Lovato, Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin.

“We’re not your ordinary ensemble,” Sharp says. “We’re not your traditional ‘sit down and be quiet and keep your hands still’ kind of concert.”

Their music goes into your soul and your heart and inspires you to think outside of the box.

Credits

Host: Vernon Neal

Producer: Dan Nass

Writers: Andrea Blain and Scott Blankenship

Executive Producer: Julie Amacher

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Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

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Latest Rhapsody in Black Episodes

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Hazel Scott 'jazzed up the classics' and stood up against segregation

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Meet Vernon Neal, the host of 'Rhapsody in Black'
Legendary rocker Jimi Hendrix loved classical music

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Tosin Abasi is a guitar trailblazer

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Herbie Hancock is a musical innovator

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Pianist Michelle Cann inspires next generation as a noted music teacher
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About Rhapsody in Black

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

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