Knox-Galesburg Symphony Series: Celebrating Black Voices in Classical Music, A Conversation & Concert

Black composers, musicians, and artists globally have been integral to classical music from the beginning of the art form. While celebrated for bringing their culturally rich tapestry of rhythm, tonality, and style to the concert stage, Black artists have also played a significant role in interpreting and championing the most revered composers of Western classical music. Our Knox-Galesburg Symphony will present a conversation and concert featuring soprano Melissa Joseph, celebrating the vast legacy of Black artists who’ve paved the way for future generations.

Fela Sowande: African Suite for Strings (selected movements)
Samuel Barber: Knoxville, Summer of 1915, Op.24 with soprano Melissa Joseph
Nkeiru Okoye: The Journey of Phyllis Wheatley
Franz Shreker: Kammersymphonie