Rhapsody in Black

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

Everett McCorvey and the American Spiritual Ensemble keeps our heritage alive

Founded in 1995 by Everett McCorvey, the American Spiritual Ensemble teaches about the history and traditions of enslaved people in America through the power of music. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

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

Meet Vernon Neal, the new host of the podcast ‘Rhapsody in Black,’ where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music.

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 in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Roberta Flack is the shepherd of a new R&B sound

Pop artist Roberta Flack grew up classically trained and continued to love the music, even when revolutionizing the R&B scene. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Regina Harris Baiocchi creates musical stories

Composer Regina Harris Baiocchi believes that music is about the stories as much as the notes. It makes sense that she’s also an author and a poet. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Ulysses Kay was one of America’s leading Black composers

Composer Ulysses Kay dedicated his life to music. With more than 140 works representing the various genres of classical music, Kay should be a household name. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Composer Ahmed Alabaca says, 'Be your dream'

Composer Ahmed Alabaca understands what it’s like to find yourself in a dark place. Music has helped them find the light, and they have dedicated their life to helping others get there, too. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Moses Hogan created community through worship

Choir director Moses Hogan, who died at 45 in 2003, built community through worship and song. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Jon Batiste pushes the boundaries of classical music

Pianist Jon Batiste has been pushing the boundaries of classical music since he was a child, fusing jazz and R&B with classical music to create an unforgettable sound. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Singer Nina Simone is the high priestess of soul

American singer, songwriter, pianist, arranger and activist Nina Simone found her calling in jazz after a career as a classical pianist was halted before her eyes. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.