Poster Helen Hagan at the piano
Helen Eugenia Hagan at the piano
Eugene Hutchinson
Black History Spotlight

Black History Spotlight: Helen Eugenia Hagan

Helen Eugenia Hagan was the first African American woman to graduate from Yale School of Music in 1912. She is also believed to be the school's first African American female student. Robert Blocker, dean of the Yale School of Music, said, "Over a century ago, Helen Hagan embodied the ideals of the School of Music that are reflected in our current students today - artistic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and service to humankind." Hagan is credited as a concert pianist and composer who wrote pianoforte pieces, violin and piano sonatas and string quartets. However, only one piece of music survives. She is perhaps, best known for the time she spent in France entertaining black troops during the First World War. Dubbed "the darling of the dough boys", Hagan was the only female Black musician sent to France to perform during the war effort.


 


 

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