Rhapsody in Black

Haitian composer and educator Jean-Paul Coffy has always seen the importance of music in early childhood development. It has been the center of his work in the community and compositions. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Composer Valerie Coleman does a little bit of everything. She is a flute virtuoso, a famous composer, a model for Black musicians worldwide and a mentor to her students. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Haitian composer and pianist Ludovic Lamothe was known by the problematic nickname ‘The Black Chopin’ during his life. Now he is receiving the recognition he deserves. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Canadian soprano Measha Brueggergosman has stood her own in the worlds of opera, jazz and gospel. While singing brilliantly across genres, she also is an activist and educator for social justice. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Composer Robert Nathaniel Dett was a collector and preserver of spirituals. He saw the music as a rich and artistic source of melody for American music. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Bassist Chi-Chi Nwanoku is more than a world-class performer. She also promotes music by composers of color in Europe through her Chineke! Foundation. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Composer Anthony Davis has been creating operas that center on the Black experience for years. With a recent thirst for Black operas, it’s easy to forget composers who have been here all along. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Singer, rapper and flutist Lizzo was introduced to music from an early age through church and marching band. Her love that the community marching band gave to her while growing up continually influences her music. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Composer Fela Sowande was introduced to classical and church music from an early age. While he was successful as a musician, he moved to London in 1934 to study civil engineering. Ultimately, his love of music won. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Bass baritone Ryan Speedo Green has experienced an all-too-familiar upbringing that is similar to many troubled Black youths in America. But with the support of an outstanding teacher, he beat the odds to become a rising star in opera. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.