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
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 - Janinah Burnett, vocalist - Briana Hunter, vocalist - Harlem Chamber Players, string quintet
- "Tribute 1: Shout," Black Bottom Symphony - Nkeiru Okoye, composer - Sumayya Ali, soprano - Charlotte Small-Chestnut, mezzo-soprano - Vincent Davis, tenor - Markel Reed, baritone - Detroit Symphony Orchestra - Thomas Wilkins, conductor
- "A Kiss on the Forehead," Home of My Ancestors - Nkeiru Okoye, composer - Issachah Savage, tenor - Howard Watkins, pianist - Tulsa Opera