Summary
Founded in the United States in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson as "Negro History Week," Black History Month began as an effort to recognize the achievements and contributions of Black Americans, whose stories were largely excluded from mainstream historical narratives. Becoming a month-long celebration in 1976, it has since grown to be observed worldwide, honoring the history, culture, and impact of people of African descent worldwide.
As part of this commemoration, resident musician Khalid McGhee, along with fellow artists-in-residence Sarah Curtis , Natalie Darst Xia , Jonathan Mutel ,
Jonathan Bass , Ariela Bohrod , and guest artist Jasmine Daquin, presents Echoes of Brilliance , a recital celebrating the contributions of Black composers to classical music. Featuring works by Florence Price, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Leslie Adams, Brian Raphael Nabors, and William Grant Still, the program highlights the resilience, creativity, and influence of composers from the United States and the broader African diaspora. This collaborative performance invites the audience to reflect on their enduring legacy and the vital role of Black voices in shaping the classical tradition.
Program objectives
Honoring the legacy and influence of Black composers, artists, and thinkers.
To encourage collaboration between musicians, visual artists and other creative residents of the United States Foundation.
Engage the community in a meaningful celebration of Black history and its relevance today.
Photo credit: Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Photographs and Prints Division, The New York Public Library. “Composers Bob Cole, James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson” New York Public Library Digital Collections. Accessed January 24, 2025: https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/7f947850-e020-0130-79c8-58d385a7b928