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articles / Classical Americana

Celebrating Black History Month

Classical AmericanaBlack ComposersBlack PerformersLara Downes

This February, we celebrate Black History Month by shining a spotlight on the incredible contributions Black composers and artists have made to classical music.

Throughout the month, join us for a series of special programming on the radio, where we’ll showcase music from trailblazing figures like Florence Price, William Grant Still, Scott Joplin, and many more. Their stories are as inspiring as their music—stories of breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on classical music history.

Tune in, watch, and celebrate with us as we honor the legacy of Black composers and artists who continue to enrich the world of classical music.

Live On Air

We will be featuring a composition, or performance by a Black composer, or musician every weekday at the top of the 8 am hour, in the 11 am hour, in the 2 pm hour, in the 5 pm hour, at the start of the 8 pm hour as well as throughout the weekend.

Evening Music with Lara Downes

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In celebration of Black History Month, Lara’s Evening Music show shines light on the music of African American composers who have been essential to the creation of our American music past & present. From historically important composers of the 19th and 20th centuries like H.T. Burleigh, William Grant Still and Florence Price, to Jessie Montgomery, Carlos Simon, Valerie Coleman and other vibrant voices of this generation, Lara’s total embrace of American music celebrates the African American experience through the sounds of its music.

Video

From Open Ears to Amplify we have a lineup of content that celebrates Black Artists and their contributions to classical music. Check back regularly as we will be adding new videos throughout the month!

Joseph Bologne | “Chevalier de Saint-George

Check out our Black History Month Playlist on the Classical California YouTube Channel

Classical AmericanaBlack ComposersBlack PerformersLara Downes
Published on 02.03.2025
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