Can Classical Music Be Black? Part 1

Shoga Founder Dr. Robert Philipson discusses the question, "Can Classical Music Be Black" with African American composer Ozie Cargile. Does there need to be something recognizably “Black” in classical music compositions by Black composers? Indeed is there anything “Black” about the classical music tradition or is it, as Dr. Philipson contends, a white preserve fiercely defended as such by white conductors, impresarios, music critics and other gatekeepers of High Culture. Ozie Cargile urges us to look beyond the too-familiar narrative of African Americans overcoming white resistance. This is a story told all too often and one that robs agency and inspiration from African Americans themselves.

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