Melanated Moments in Classical Music

Classical Music Indy
  • 5.0 (22)
  • ARTS
Melanated Moments in Classical Music

Melanated Moments in Classical Music is a podcast produced by Classical Music Indy that shines a spotlight on musical works composed by, for, and about people of color. Melanated Moments is hosted by international opera soprano Angela Brown and music sociologist Joshua Thompson. For some listeners, Melanated Moments will uncover a hidden trove of classical music they never knew existed. For those with a deep knowledge of the genre, stories reflecting the cultural context of the African Diaspora will give a fresh voice to black contributions in the world of classical music.

  1. 11/15/2023

    Recap Pt. 2: Melanated Moments in Classical Music

    Featuring some of the world's most talented and innovative Black composers and musicians from seasons 4 through 7, Melanated Moments in Classical Music wraps up its comprehensive recap. Joshua and Angela discuss the themes and trends that emerged in these seasons and reflect on Melanated Moments' impact on the classical music world. Both retrospective episodes encourage reflection on the progress that has been made in promoting diversity and inclusion in classical music whil...

    58 min

  2. 11/08/2023

    Recap Pt. 1: Melanated Moments in Classical Music

    Join us for a recap of the first three seasons of the Melanated Moments in Classical Music podcast, featuring some of the world's most influential Black composers and musicians. From William Grant Still to Rosephanye Powell , these artists have made significant contributions to the world of classical music, and their work continues to inspire and amaze. Whether you're a longtime fan of the podcast or you're just getting started, we invite you to listen in on this retrospective cel...

    40 min

  3. 11/01/2023

    The Ordering of Moses: An African-American Masterwork

    Joshua and Angela examine the remarkable oratorio The Ordering of Moses by African-American composer Robert Nathaniel Dett. This powerful and moving work tells the biblical story of Moses leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and is considered one of the most important works of African-American classical music. Scored for chorus, orchestra, and soloists, Dett's oratorio features a variety of musical styles, including spirituals, folk music, and classical forms. It is a powerful work ...

    36 min

  4. 10/25/2023

    Joshua Thompson: A Force for Change in Classical Music

    Pianist, music sociologist, and occasional trumpeter, Joshua Thompson, is an active change agent in the classical music world. Learn more about our host’s passionate advocacy for diversity and inclusion, his work to promote social justice through music, and his unique perspective on the role of music in society. Listen in as Angela teases out how Joshua got to where he is today and where he might be going next.Featured Music:"Summerland" - William Grant Still Joshua Th...

    41 min

  5. 10/18/2023

    Oswald Russell: Jamaica's Artistic Ambassador

    The international impact of pianist/composer, Oswald Russell, wows Joshua and Angela as they discuss his beginnings in Jamaica and a globe-trotting classical music career that followed. Oswald serves as an example of the highest level of musicality, life-long learning, and global citizenship. Featured Music:"Papillons" - Oswald RussellJoseph Talleda, pianoThree Jamaican Dances: No. 1 & 2 - Oswald RussellWilliam Chapman Nyaho, piano"Thème Du Générique" - Les Vieilles Lunes - Os...

    23 min

  6. 10/11/2023

    Karen Slack: The Melanated Maven of Opera

    Angela and Joshua welcome opera superstar, arts administrator, and 2022 Sphinx Medal of Excellence winner, Karen Slack, to the Melanated Moments in Classical Music family. Bringing her dynamic, down to earth vibe and perspective, Slack details her beginnings in music and an illustrious career that keeps her in demand with leading artists and stages the world over. Equally devoted to music education and meaningful community engagement, Karen Slack reminds us of the personal power found i...

    43 min

  7. 10/04/2023

    Dawson’s Negro Folk Symphony: A Symphony of Our Ancestors' Spirit

    Joshua and Angela discuss the foresight and impact of composer, musicologist, arranger, and premier torchbearer of Negro spirituals, William Levi Dawson. A protege of Booker T. Washington, the life and works of Dawson score an accurate narrative of Black people during the Great Migration. His symphony illustrates the cultural links that were lost and then found as a result of the colonial world’s Global Slave Trade. Revered internationally, Dawson’s tenure and role as an educator ...

    28 min

  8. 09/27/2023

    Cracking Classical Music’s Cultural Code with Nkeiru Okoye

    In this episode, Angela and Joshua introduce our listening audience to 2021 Guggenheim Fellow, composer, and lyricist, Nkeiru Okoye. As one of the most sought after composers and creative minds of the 21st century, Okoye provides an exuberant account into her musical influences, training, and invaluable approach to scoring Black history as a way to engage, educate, and entertain audiences of the future. Featured Music:"Nothing but the Grave," Harriet Tubman - Nkeiru Okoye, composer...

    41 min
See All (59)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Melanated Moments in Classical Music is a podcast produced by Classical Music Indy that shines a spotlight on musical works composed by, for, and about people of color. Melanated Moments is hosted by international opera soprano Angela Brown and music sociologist Joshua Thompson. For some listeners, Melanated Moments will uncover a hidden trove of classical music they never knew existed. For those with a deep knowledge of the genre, stories reflecting the cultural context of the African Diaspora will give a fresh voice to black contributions in the world of classical music.

Information

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada