In honor of Black History Month, we are celebrating some of the most famous and influential Black composers in classical music history.
- Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1745 – 1799)
From a young age, Bologne’s talent in music blossomed. He mastered the violin, becoming a celebrated composer and conductor, leaving audiences awestruck with his virtuosity. But his brilliance extended beyond the stage. He was a renowned swordsman, considered the best fencer in Europe, earning the prestigious title of “Chevalier.” Bologne’s accomplishments weren’t confined to the realm of personal accolades. He broke racial barriers, becoming the first Black conductor of a major European orchestra and composing operas that challenged societal norms. He even formed an all-Black cavalry unit during the French Revolution, fighting for equality and challenging prejudice.
2. Florence Price (1887 – 1953)
Florence Price wasn’t just a composer; she was a symphony queen, shattering barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Born in 1887 in Arkansas, she defied expectations, becoming the first Black woman to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra in 1933. Price’s talent wasn’t confined to symphonies. She composed a vast repertoire, including concertos, chamber music, choral works, and even piano pieces. Her music, often described as powerful, evocative, and deeply personal, reflected her own struggles and triumphs, resonating with audiences across cultures and generations.
Florence Price: Symphony No. 1 in E minor (youtube.com)
3. Scott Joplin (1868 – 1917)
Born in 1868, Joplin wasn’t just a composer; he was a musical innovator who redefined American music, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate audiences over a century later. Joplin’s journey began amidst the challenges of post-Civil War America. Despite facing racial barriers, he nurtured his musical talent, studying piano and absorbing the sounds of his environment. But it was ragtime, with its syncopated rhythms and infectious energy, that truly sparked his passion. In 1899, Joplin’s “Maple Leaf Rag” shot to fame, becoming the first ragtime hit and catapulting the genre into the national spotlight. His unique compositions, with their catchy melodies and intricate piano flourishes, captured the spirit of the era, finding their way into saloons, vaudeville stages, and even the White House. He was a visionary composer, pushing the boundaries of the genre by incorporating classical influences and complex harmonies. He even attempted grander forms like opera, showcasing his artistic ambition and desire for recognition beyond popular acclaim.
Maple Leaf Rag Played by Scott Joplin (youtube.com)
4. George Bridgetower (1778 – 1860)
By the age of 10, he was captivating audiences across Europe, hailed as a “prodigy” and an “African prince.” During his meteoric rise, Bridgetower forged an unlikely friendship with the legendary Ludwig van Beethoven. Together, they performed a duet in 1802, with Beethoven composing the Kreutzer Sonata. Initially dedicated to Bridgetower, the sonata’s dedication was later changed, leaving a bittersweet mark on their collaboration. Bridgetower’s career wasn’t defined by a single sonata however. He toured extensively, captivating audiences with his virtuosity and technical mastery. He even composed his own music, showcasing his versatility and creative spirit. Despite facing discrimination due to his African heritage, Bridgetower persevered, achieving recognition and respect within the European music scene. Though largely forgotten for a long time, Bridgetower’s story is being rediscovered and celebrated. Historians and musicians are recognizing his talent and influence, placing him back in the rightful space he deserves within the history of violin virtuosity.
5. William Grant Still (1895 – 1978)
He became the first Black conductor of a major American symphony orchestra, the first Black composer to have an opera staged by a major company, and a pioneer in incorporating jazz and African American influences into classical music. His works, like the iconic “Afro-American Symphony,” resonated with audiences, transcending racial and cultural divides. Though Still faced prejudice and challenges throughout his career, his contributions remain undeniable. He paved the way for countless Black musicians and composers, inspiring them to push boundaries and pursue their artistic aspirations. His music continues to be performed and celebrated worldwide, a testament to its enduring power and relevance.
William Grant Still: Afro-American Symphony – I. Moderato Assai (youtube.com)