Melanated Moments in Classical Music Classical Music Indy

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 while acknowledging challenges and barriers that remain.  

What a journey it has been...as always, we thank you for your support all along the way!
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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 celebration of the diverse and vibrant world of classical music.
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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 that explores themes of freedom, oppression, and hope while serving as an allegory of the Black experience of the 18th-19th centuries.

Featured Music:
The Ordering of Moses, No.1: "Introduction" 
May Festival Chorus
Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra
James Conlon, conductorThe Ordering of Moses, No.3: "Oh Lord, Behold My Affliction" The Ordering of Moses, No.9: "And When Moses Smote the Water" The Ordering of Moses, No.15: "He is King of Kings" Support the show

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 Thompson, piano"Just A Lil' Bit" - Kim Kenny, songwriter/vocals
Richard Sleepy Floyd, drums
Jared Thompson, saxophone
Amanda Gardnier, flute
Joshua Thompson, trumpet
Will Rob, bass/keyboard"Troubled Water" - Margaret Bonds      
Joshua Thompson, piano

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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 Russell
Joseph Talleda, pianoThree Jamaican Dances: No. 1 & 2 - Oswald Russell
William Chapman Nyaho, piano"Thème Du Générique" - Les Vieilles Lunes - Oswald Russell
Daniele Patucchi, arranger

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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 in showing up and being your truest self both on and off stage.

Featured Music:


"Pace, Pace Mio Dio" - from La Forza Del Destino - Verdi
Karen Slack, soprano
MDR Symphony, California
Frank Fetta, conductor“Tu che di gel" - Turendot - Giacomo Puccini
Karen Slack, soprano
Mark Morash, pianistYou Can Tell The World - Five Creek-Freedman Spirituals - Margaret Bonds
Karen Slack, Soprano
Miro QuartetSupport the show