Melanated Moments in Classical Music is a new podcast 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.
Classical Music Indy proudly welcomes CAAPA, the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts and Morning Brown, Inc., as the podcast’s official promotional partners.
CAAPA, the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts, supports Black classical musicians, opera singers, youth, and others in the performing arts by “Bringing Color to the Classics!” Learn more at www.4caapa.org.
Morning Brown, Inc., works to bridge the gap between accessible, live-music programs and underserved individuals, schools, and communities. Founded by international opera soprano Angela Brown, the nonprofit promotes exposure to classical music for communities where the offering of classical music is rare or the cost of experiencing classical music is prohibitive. Learn more at www.morningbrown.org
Streaming and podcasting are made possible by the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
Episodes
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April 7, 2020
A Circus Act No Longer – Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins
Our featured composer this episode, Thomas Wiggins, is one of the most talented musicians of all time…who also happened to be non-verbal, blind, and born into slavery. Joshua tells us how in his own time, Wiggins was portrayed as a circus act rather than a musical genius but is now starting to get the recognition he has long deserved. -
April 1, 2020
Episode 4: Kitchen Table Masterpiece - A Woman's Life
On this episode of Melanated Moments, Angela gives us an inside look at the making of a masterpiece. She tells us how composer Richard Danielpour worked with literary legend Maya Angelou to set a number of poems for the iconic song cycle, A Woman’s Life. Angela tell us of her once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform in Dr. Angelou’s own home; a performance which moved her to tears. -
March 25, 2020
Episode 3: Laureate Libretto – Margaret Garner
The libretto for this week’s piece was written by poet laureate and iconic literary figure Toni Morrison. Margaret Garner is an opera that tells the story of an escaped slave who is captured but decides to kill her own children rather than see them forced back into slavery. Our own Angela Brown voiced one of the principal characters during the world premiere in Detroit, and she walks us through this powerful and thought-provoking opera.
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March 18, 2020
Introducing Melanated Moments in Classical Music
Classical Music Indy invites you to subscribe to a show that takes a fresh look at classical music. Join us as we shine a spotlight on musical works composed by, for, and about people of color. Hosts Angela Brown and Joshua Thompson take you inside the music and tell the stories behind the pieces with a perfect blend of lively conversation and no-nonsense straight talk. Full episodes coming March 18, 2020.
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March 18, 2020
Episode 1: The Dean - William Grant Still
On our debut episode of Melanated Moments in Classical Music, Joshua introduces us to one of his favorite composers, William Grant Still. Known as the Dean of African American Composers, his Africa Suite transports the listener to the dawn of time and the cradle of civilization. Joshua and Angela discuss the piece’s second movement, Land of Romance as well as cartoons, relationships, and defying stereotypes.
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March 18, 2020
Episode 2: Musical Royalty - Evelyn Simpson Curenton
Evelyn Simpson Curenton was born into one of the most musically gifted families of all time, and her talent still shined through. She is one of the most sought-after composers and musicians of her time. On this episode, Angela walks us through two of Curenton’s personal favorite spiritual pieces: Sinner Please Don’t Let this Harvest Pass and Oh Glory.
