Canon Busters: Black Classical Composers Finally Being Recognized
Canon Busters: Black Classical Composers Finally Being Recognized
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In the world of classical music, Bach, Beethoven and Brahms, among others, have long been recognized as the “crème de la crème” brilliant, prolific composers considered icons within a canon dominated by white men.
Now, after decades languishing in relative obscurity, four African American classical composers are gaining the respect they deserve and that was formerly denied because of pervasive racist and sexist ideologies.
William Grant Still, Jr. (1895–1978), George Theophilus Walker (1922–2018), Florence Beatrice (Smith) Price (1887–1953) and emerging artist Jessie Montgomery (born 1981), each had compositions performed by the New Orchestra of Washington (D.C.) during a concert on June 19.
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ONLINE: Lift Every Voice
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Black Butterfly was written by Duke Ellington & Irving Mills and Brad Mehldau’s piano playing would make Duke proud on this one. It’s delicate and tasteful, reflective and intentional. Lloyd floats with a tender restraint throughout.
Charles Lloyd – Lift Every Voice
(ECM Records, 2002)
This album was Charles Lloyd’s musical response to the terrorist attacks of 9/11. The songs he chose were songs of hope, faith, resilience and compassion in the wake of tragedy.
What’s Going On is a soulful Marvin Gaye classic, interpreted here with a sensitivity and tenderness that is truly touching.
You Are So Beautiful was made famous by Joe Cocker but written by Billy Preston & Bruce Fisher. Lloyd’s tenor sax sings out, with Geri Allen’s piano twinkling above.