William Grant Still

Composer and conductor of Afro-American Symphony

William Grant Still - Composer and conductor of Afro-American Symphony
Born

May 11th, 1895
129 years ago

Died

1978
47 years ago — 83 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American composer and conductor, recognized for contributions to classical music, particularly in the realm of orchestral compositions. Studied at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and later worked with notable figures such as Florence Price and George Gershwin. Composed over 150 works, including symphonies, operas, and chamber pieces. Became the first African American to conduct a major symphony orchestra in the United States when he led the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 1936. The 'Afro-American Symphony' remains a significant piece within the American classical repertoire, showcasing a blend of African American folk traditions and classical forms.

Composed the 'Afro-American Symphony'

First African American conductor of a major symphony orchestra

Wrote over 150 musical works

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