Rhapsody in Black

YourClassical
  • 5.0 (22)
  • MUSIC COMMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Rhapsody in Black

Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.

  1. 19H AGO

    Andre 3000 is a musician who never stops exploring

    Hip-hop artist and composer André 3000 released his latest album, ‘New Blue Sun,’ in 2023. The album centers around compositions with wind instruments and is result of his need to explore and the many influences around him, both jazz and classical. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

    5 min

  2. JUL 3

    Woman-powered trio String Queens making a difference in the world

    The String Queens are a woman-powered string trio based out of Washington D.C. who have made a difference in their community and in the classical music arena through their non-traditional programming and performances. Find out more in the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

    5 min

  3. JUN 26

    Pamela Z expands the boundaries of classical music

    Pamela Z is a visionary artist who embraces new ideas about identity and technology in her music. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

    5 min

  4. JUN 19

    Terence Blanchard is a legend of jazz, film music, opera and more

    In 2021, Terence Blanchard became the first Black composer to have an opera staged at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Whether it’s performing or composing jazz, film music and opera, Blanchard does it exceptionally well, receiving awards and nominations for his work at every turn. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

    5 min

  5. JUN 12

    Tenor Lawrence Brownlee uplifts African American music and youth

    Tenor Lawrence Brownlee is conscious of how the work of Black singers in the past have helped him succeed in his career, and he intends to do the same for upcoming young singers. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

    5 min

  6. JUN 5

    Florence Price meets Frederick Stock

    Composer Florence Price dealt with many systemic barriers in her pursuit of musical greatness. Find out how her hard work paid off after she won a composition competition and formed a partnership with Chicago Symphony Orchestra conductor Frederick Stock.

    5 min

  7. MAY 29

    Grammy-nominated cellist Seth Parker Woods pushes boundaries of classical music

    Seth Parker Woods is a cellist who wholeheartedly embraces new compositions, artistic innovation and pushes the boundaries of classical music. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

    5 min

  8. MAY 22

    Julius Eastman composed music that challenged oppressive stereotypes

    Composer and pianist Julius Eastman’s personal philosophy was, “To be what I am to the fullest.” A graduate of the Curtis Institute, his music was highly acclaimed and challenged racist and homophobic stereotypes. Find out more in the ‘Rhapsody in Black’ podcast.

    5 min
See All (30)

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Where we turn up the voices of Black artists in the world of classical music, with host Vernon Neal.

Information

  • Creator
    YourClassical
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Minnesota Public Radio
  • Show Website
    Rhapsody in Black

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