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.
Melanated Moments in Classical Music
Swinging the Classics with Hazel Scott
This week’s episode features Hazel Scott, a child prodigy, piano virtuoso, and one of the most outspoken civil rights activists of the mid-20th century in the entertainment industry. Whether playing the classics on the nose or employing her fiery fingers to fuse jazz and classical music, Hazel Scott was as unapologetic in her talents as she was in her commitment to changing the way Black actors were portrayed on film and television which ultimately led to the demise of her short but illustrious career.
Featured Music:
"Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2" by Franz Liszt, arranged and performed by Hazel Scott
"Fantaisie-Impromptu Op. 66" by Frederic Chopin, performed by Hazel Scott
"A Foggy Day," performed by pianist/vocalist Hazel Scott, bassist Charles Mingus, and percussionist Rudy Nichols