Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.
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.
Composer Damien Geter began his musical path as an educator before becoming an acclaimed vocalist. But now, his path as a composer is ‘breaking down the barriers of what classical music should be.’ Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Right after Jon Batiste won the Grammy for album of the year in 2022, he spent three weeks sleeping on a hospital couch as his wife, Suleika Jaouad, received a bone marrow transplant for leukemia. Now, the couple recounts the ups and downs of their recent years through the Netflix documentary ‘American Symphony.’ Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Undine Smith Moore knew the importance of music education from an early age. But despite her success, she still doubted her abilities and accomplishments as a composer, citing racism. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Composer and educator Jonathan Bailey Holland’s mission is to reshape the way music history is taught and understood, and to help every student feel like they’re part of the conversation. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Justin Holland is not the first name that people think of when asked about the classical guitar. It might come as a surprise that one of the best guitar virtuosos of the 19th century was a free black Oberlin College graduate. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Violinist Rachel Barton Pine blurs the boundaries of what you might think a classical musician is and does. Not only has she created a pathway for metal fans to explore classical music, but she’s a genuine ally for Black artists and the music they create. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Columbia University graduate and polyglot Paul Robeson was a bass-baritone who advocated for the performance of African American spirituals in classical spaces. Considered a ‘darling of the entertainment industry,’ he was almost erased from history for his outspoken activism. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Afro-Brazilian guitarist Plinio Fernandes’ style is a unique alchemy of the Brazilian folk and popular songs he grew up with, Latin classical traditions and the Western canon. He recently released his debut album and is working to teach and inspire new generations of musicians. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Pianist André Watts made his debut at 16 when he was featured in a Young People’s Concert, with Leonard Bernstein conducting. Bernstein was blown away by the performance. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.
Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.
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