Rhapsody in Black

Pamela Z is a visionary artist who embraces new ideas about identity and technology in her music. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

In 2021, Terence Blanchard became the first Black composer to have an opera staged at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Whether it’s performing or composing jazz, film music and opera, he does it exceptionally well. Find out more in the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

Tenor Lawrence Brownlee is conscious of how the work of Black singers in the past has helped him succeed in his career, and he intends to do the same for upcoming young singers. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Seth Parker Woods is a cellist who wholeheartedly embraces new compositions, fosters artistic innovation and pushes the boundaries of classical music. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

Composer and pianist Julius Eastman’s personal philosophy was ‘to be what I am to the fullest.’ A graduate of the Curtis Institute, his music was highly acclaimed and challenged racist and homophobic stereotypes. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

Paul Robeson was a star of stage and screen, but his passion was sharing spirituals. His goal was to elevate them to the same level as other musical forms. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

Trumpeter Wynton Marsalis is internationally known for his outstanding career in jazz. Many don’t know that he has also found success in classical music. Find out more in the latest episode of the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

The award-winning string duo Black Violin has been mixing classical and hip-hop for over 20 years. The group’s goal is to make the violin and viola sound naturally and unabashedly Black. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Pianist, composer and innovator Duke Ellington is famous today for his jazz and swing music. However, he had a few other visions kicking around in his toolbox, including some memorable suites such as ‘The Queen’s Suite.’ Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

Sly5thAve is a multifaceted musician from Texas whose arrangements fuse his education in jazz saxophone, his classical arranging skills and his Nigerian roots to create a whole new musical experience. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.