Podcasts about Valerie Coleman

From MPR News, Art Hounds are members of the Minnesota arts community who look beyond their own work to highlight what's exciting in local art. Their recommendations are lightly edited from the audio heard in the player above. Want to be an Art Hound? Submit here.Flute takes center stageRoma Duncan is a piccolo player in the Minnesota Orchestra. She recommends a concert this Sunday where the flute will take center stage. Flutist Adam W. Sadberry, accompanied by Joe Williams on piano, will perform this month's Coffee Concert at the Lakeville Area Arts Center, Sunday, Feb. 2 at 2 p.m.  Roma says: Adam's really put together an interesting program with a lot of music from Black composers. Perhaps the one that catches my attention most is the finisher on the program, “Wish: Sonatine” by Valerie Coleman. Valerie is a living composer. She's a Black woman who is a flutist and a composer, and she's gotten a ton of attention in recent years with with great reason; she always has such engaging, exciting works.  One of the big pieces that I'm also excited about is the [J.S.] Bach Partita [in A minor]. It's a real tour de force for flutists. It's not very often that we have these solo pieces where we just never stop playing. He has so many different composers on this program, so I think it'll be really fascinating to hear him switch gears so many times between different eras, different styles, different feels to his repertoire.— Roma Duncan13 years of musical marriageTheater artist Laurie Flanigan Hegge from Minneapolis recommends a light-hearted musical to see with your sweetheart: the musical “'Til Death.” Written and performed by real-life married couple Jeremiah and Vanessa Gamble of Bucket Brigade, the musical, now in its 13th season, opens Friday and runs through Feb. 15 at Art House North in St. Paul. Laurie says: This show is a Valentine to marriage and commitment and a love letter to their community on the west side of St. Paul [where they live and perform].  “‘Til Death” features two sets of couples: a married couple who have been together for 15 years but are on the brink of separation, and a newly married couple who are goofily in love with each other. The two of them come together on a snowy night in a blizzard and end up spending a kind of madcap, silly night together, where the realities of what it means to be married and committed kind of crash into each other.  It's a fun musical: warm, funny and light-hearted, and it's performed in a really intimate space called Art House North, which is an old church.— Laurie Flanigan HeggeRochester JazzJazz musician Eric Heukeshoven of Winona recommends spending your Wednesday nights this February at the Rochester City Jazz Fest. Hear live jazz at the Thesis Beer Project from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., starting Wednesday, Feb. 5.  Eric describes the line-up: Next Wednesday, Feb. 5, is Darren Saner Quartet. Darren is a crooner from Rochester, very well known. There is a wonderful band backing him up. The next Wednesday, Feb. 12, is a group called TakeTwo & Friends. They're very much straight ahead, right in the pocket. It's piano, drums and tenor sax, but I think the “friends” indicates they're going to have people sitting in with them that night. Then on the 19th is a new group from Minneapolis called 3-D. It features guitar, bass and drums. And wrapping it up [on Feb. 26], just in time for Mardi Gras, is Loud Mouth Brass, which is a New Orleans-style brass band. They will bring down the house, I'm sure.— Eric Heukeshoven

Ozark Mountain Christmas with Byron Tyler and co-host Pam Yancey, President of ExploreBranson.com continues with this Third Show in the Series. Guests include Grace Lugo from Mel's Hard Luck Diner. Mel's Diner is a 1950's style diner with the singing waiters. Grace sings for us on the show! Next is Ty Lewis with Shepherd of the Hills with info on the Trail of Lights, longest running and #1 favorite Branson drive-through Christmas lights attraction as well as the North Pole Adventure, and host of Christmas themed dinner shows. We'll wrap this fourth show in our series with Valerie Coleman from College of the Ozarks. The college charges no tuition for full-time students due to its student work program. Valerie also shares Christmas festivities at the Keeter Center where you can experience farm to fork dining along with the best ice cream made from their campus dairy cows! These shows were produced in the Bott Radio Network studios in Branson, Missouri. Learn more about making plans to spend Christmas in Branson at www.explorebranson.com

Loki Karuna chats with Lorin Green about her continued journey toward equity and liberation in classical music, her newly published anthology of Black experiences within the field, and how arts administration has impacted her view on the role of musicians. Loki also offers perspectives relating to the murder of Sonya Massey and political fundraising. Arts EnginesLorin Green/"From Our Eyes and Ears"Relative Pitch Podcast"Danza de la Mariposa" by Valerie Coleman (perf. Lorin Green)"Prelude for Unaccompanied Flute" by Ulysses Kay (perf. Lorin Green)Body camera video focused national attention on an Illinois deputy's fatal shooting of Sonya Massey ★ Support this podcast ★

Kodan Quintet members Hunter O'Brien, Corbin Krebs, Ian Daugherty, Lauren Anker and Keeheon Nam visited Studio A to perform music of Amy Beach and Valerie Coleman.

Sphinx Virtuosi – Songs for Our Times (Deutsche Grammophon) New Classical Tracks - Andre Dowell, Sphinx Virtuosi by “My role with the organization as the chief of artist engagement is to really understand the talent that is out there and to be able to recruit the musicians who perform with the Sphinx Virtuosi,” Andre Dowell says. “Community engagement, in terms of how they are engaging their community, not just the youth, but also their audiences and educating them about our mission, which is transforming life through the power of diversity in the arts.”For the past 15 years, Dowell has watched the Sphinx Organization evolve as it strives for and achieves that mission. One way in which it's doing that is with a professional, self-conducted touring ensemble of 18 members made up of freelance musicians and professors at universities. That ensemble is Sphinx Virtuosi, which has just released its debut recording, Songs for Our Times.“Over the past couple of years, we've had the great opportunity to have our programs be comprised solely of musicians who are Black or Latino. Because of that, we really wanted to have an album out that represented not only the Sphinx Organization, but the Sphinx Virtuosi. One thing that you'll find with our debut album is that every composer is a composer of color.”Why is this title, Songs for Our Times, so significant?“Songs for Our Times really digs into composers that we've worked with in the past, celebrating artists and composers who have paved the way. We talk about Florence Price, for example. We talk about Jessie Montgomery, Valerie Coleman, Carlos Simon, and we have a great arrangement of Beethoven's Bridgetower by Rubén Rengel. Songs for Our Times goes into the past, the rich history of the Sphinx organization, and explores how that intertwines with the composers of today.The album opens with Global Warming, by Michael Abels, who won the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Music. Can you talk about the history of this piece and why it fits in so well with this debut recording?“This piece really inspired us to feature Michael Abels as a composer. This piece just captures so perfectly what it means to be in this world today and going through COVID-19 and the pandemic. And what you'll find on the CD is George Floyd in the aftermath of that, in terms of what it means to reflect in this world today.” Watch on YouTubeThere's an unusual time signature in the piece by Ricardo Hertz. It's called Sisyphus in the Big City. Why do we have this 25/16 time signature?“It is great. And if you listen to the music enough, you'll be able to understand and feel the rhythmic structure of it. We have the great opportunity to play this piece in Brazil with Ricardo himself. It's something that requires a lot of communication in terms of being able to play that type of time signatures while also keeping the groove.”Valerie Coleman's two-movement piece, Tracing Visions, is on this recording, and each of the movements is so powerful. Would you share the story behind them?“The first movement we talk about Emmett Till and other victims of domestic violence or terrorism, if you will. It's a remembrance of those times. And it ends with the second movement, which means power and is a celebration of where we have come in our society. And she takes this motif and really expands it to uplift the work that has been done, and that we continue to do, and the fight that we continue to have in our society.” Listen on YouTubeTo hear the rest of my conversation, click on the extended interview above, or download the extended podcast on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts.ResourcesSphinx Virtuosi – Songs for Our Times (Amazon)Sphinx Virtuosi – Songs for Our Times (Deutsche Grammophon)Sphinx Virtuosi (official site)

Deutsche Grammophon introduces the Sphinx Virtuosi to a global stage via the release of its debut album, Songs for Our Times. Hailed as “topnotch” by The New York Times, this groundbreaking self-conducted American string ensemble comprises 18 exceptional Black and Latinx artists and has curated an album featuring works by outstanding composers and artistic visionaries of color. Its strikingly diverse tracks include the world premiere recordings of Valerie Coleman's Tracing Visions and Jessie Montgomery's Divided, both written expressly for Sphinx Virtuosi, which commissions new music annually, in line with its desire to expand its repertoire and connect with new audiences. Songs for Our Times Track List1. Michael Abels – Global Warming [8:34]2. Aldemaro Romero – Fuga con Pajarillo [8:04]Valerie Coleman – Tracing Visions for String Orchestra     3. ii. Till [5:52]     4. iii. Amandla! [5:15]5. Carlos Simon – Between Worlds [4:32]6. Florence Price – String Quartet No. 2, Andante Cantabile [7:06]7. Jessie Montgomery – Divided [10:01]8. Ricardo Herz – Sísifo na Cidade Grande [6:44]9. Ludwig van Beethoven (arr. Rengel) – Violin Sonata No. 9, Op. 47, "Bridgetower", Presto [6:42]Total Time: 62:50Help support our show by purchasing this album  at:Downloads (classicalmusicdiscoveries.store) Classical Music Discoveries is sponsored by Uber and Apple Classical. @CMDHedgecock#ClassicalMusicDiscoveries #KeepClassicalMusicAlive#CMDGrandOperaCompanyofVenice #CMDParisPhilharmonicinOrléans#CMDGermanOperaCompanyofBerlin#CMDGrandOperaCompanyofBarcelonaSpain#ClassicalMusicLivesOn#Uber#AppleClassical Please consider supporting our show, thank you!Donate (classicalmusicdiscoveries.store) staff@classicalmusicdiscoveries.comThis album is broadcasted with the permission of Katy Salomon representing Primo Artists.

“It's going to be a good one,” says Steve Shanley on week six of the Cedar Rapids Municipal Band's 2023 season. Ryan Smith will be featured with a classical saxophone solo and the band will present a challenging piece by Valerie Coleman that mixes styles from Latin jazz to Turkish music. Other selections this week … Continue reading The post Culture Crawl 835 “We Noticed the Costume Change” appeared first on Jazz 88.3 KCCK.

Kate Harford discusses with Ivan six things which should be better known. Rev. Kate Harford serves as University Chaplain at Oxford Brookes University, and the European vocations adviser for the Metropolitan Community Churches as well as a recovering bookseller and keen amateur flautist. She's currently studying for a master's degree at the Queen's Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education and has a particular interest in queer and disabled theologies with an emphasis on mental health and neurodiversity. Metropolitan Community Church https://www.mccchurch.org/ Rivers of London series by Ben Aaronovitch https://www.denofgeek.com/books/an-introduction-to-the-rivers-of-london-series/ The Story Museum, Oxford https://www.storymuseum.org.uk/ ADHD in girls and women https://chadd.org/for-adults/women-and-girls/ Valerie Coleman https://www.vcolemanmusic.com/ The Anchoress https://iamtheanchoress.bandcamp.com/ This podcast is powered by ZenCast.fm

Mother's Day is a time to celebrate those who nurture, while we also acknowledge the varied experiences of being and having mothers. Whether your mothering relationships are close or challenging, there is room for you at this service. Whether your experience of being a mother is fulfilling or unrealized, there is room for you at this service. Join together in a supportive environment on this holiday full of varied experiences and complicated feelings. Musical guests Kinsey Fournier and Daniel Martinec on clarinet will play works by Valerie Coleman, Copland, Gordon Goodwin, and Mozart.

Lara St. John — ♀she/her/hers (Ancalagon Records) Jump to giveaway form New Classical Tracks - Lara St. John by When Lara St. John was 14 and studying at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, she was abused by her violin teacher. When she reported it, nothing happened. That's why she decided to reveal her story to the public. “Finally, I decided the only way to do it right was to scream from the rooftops,” St. John said. “I've been doing that since the 5,000-word article came out in July 2019 in the Philadelphia Inquirer.” Her fight for women in the world of classical music continues with a new recording that lifts the voices of a dozen women composers called ♀she/her/hers. “For years I've been trying to include music by women in programs. There's so much great stuff out there for solo violin I decided to make a recording of it,” she said. “For example, Sophie-Carmen Eckhardt-Gramatté, was a violinist, pianist and terrific composer. Nobody outside of Manitoba has ever heard of her. So I wanted to change that.” Can you talk about some of the extended techniques used on the album? “Milica Paranosic's Bubamara is the first track. She and I have been friends for years and originally bonded over our love of Serbian Roma music. So she wrote this one for me and used traditional Macedonia rhythms. At one point, she said, ‘I want this effect here. How can you do this and can you do it? Can you do it with foot bells? Can you do it with this?' I just figured out different ways of being able to play a theme. It's doing pizzicato with the left hand, which is kind of like accompanying oneself. “Laurie Anderson gave me carte blanche, basically. I set her Statue of Liberty for solo violin and Tibetan bells. The bowls make those beautiful sounds that go right into your solar plexus. I don't know how Tibetans do that, but it's an incredible sound. “I've been a big fan of Valerie Coleman for 20 years, and she wrote a gorgeous flute piece, which I figured out how to perform on violin. I can even do flutter tongue. I have the sound that I want to achieve in my head, and then I figure out how to do it.” Tell me about Ada Caplan's Whitewashed. “She was 14 when she wrote to me and said, ‘Hi, I don't know you, but I'm a composer and a violinist. I wrote a piece I want to present to a competition at my school. I wrote it a little bit too hard, and I don't sound good. Can you record it for me?' “She's from Philadelphia. Of course, a 14-year-old from Philadelphia was a little more fateful than a coincidence. One of her composition teachers is Melissa Dunphy, who also wrote a great piece for solo violin called Kommós, which is also on the album. The whole thing just came together.” Watch now To hear the rest of my conversation, click on the extended interview above, or download the extended podcast on iTunes or wherever you get your podcasts. Giveaway Time For Three New Classical Tracks Giveaway You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy. This giveaway is subject to the Official Giveaway Rules. Resources Lara St. John — ♀she/her/hers (Lara St. John Store) Lara St. John — ♀she/her/hers (Amazon) Lara St. John (official site)

Our Ozark Mountain Christmas in Branson series continues with episode four. Co-host Lynn Berry from Branson Lakes Area Chamber joins Byron Tyler as together they welcome, Jae McFerron from The Shepherd of the Hills, Valerie Coleman with The College of the Ozarks, Steve Hartley from Dick's 5 & 10, and Chris Myer with Lights of Joy. Plan your Ozark Mountain Christmas in Branson by visiting www.explorebranson.com

Composer Valerie Coleman does a little bit of everything. She is a flute virtuoso, a famous composer, a model for Black musicians worldwide and a mentor to her students. Find out more in the latest episode of the 'Rhapsody in Black' podcast.

Florence Price, Valerie Coleman und Jessie Montgomery: Mit diesen drei afroamerikanischen Komponistinnen gibt das New York Youth Symphony Orchestra sein CD-Debüt. Das bereits 1963 gegründete Orchester gilt als Vereinigung der begabtesten jungen Musikerinnen und Musiker der Welt und trifft mit dieser CD einen Nerv, meint SWR2-Musikkritikerin Hannah Schmidt. Denn: „Die Kämpfe afroamerikanischer und Schwarzer Menschen um grundlegende Rechte dauern noch immer an.“

In this week's Sound Perimeter, University of Arkansas music professor Lia Uribe explores music featuring the fanciful sounds of piccolo and flute. We hear selections from composers Adina Izarra, Valerie Coleman and Claude Bolling.

The Philadelphia Orchestra season returns to SPAC August 11-14. They have a record number of women and black, Indigenous and people of color composers this season – with Valerie Coleman being one of them and among the world's most performed living composers.

KCBS Radio coverage of the January 21, 1985 San Francisco parade for the 49ers after their 38-16 victory over Miami in Super Bowl XIX the day before. The game was played at Stanford Stadium. Coverage is anchored by Charlie Seraphin and Valerie Coleman.

Synopsis Long before Beyoncé, there was Josephine Baker.  Born Freda Josephine McDonald on today's date in 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri, at age 15 she talked her way into the chorus line at a local vaudeville theater, and from there headed first to New York at the height of the Harlem Renaissance, and then on Paris and the Folies Bergère. where as a singer and dancer she quickly became a sensation. By that time Freda Josephine McDonald had reinvented herself as Josephine Baker. She was for Parisians the embodiment of the Jazz Age, the "Black Venus," and the hippest American on the planet.  She became a naturalized French citizen, married a wealthy French industrialist, and raised her 12 adopted children in France.  In one of her most famous songs, she sang, "I have two loves, my country and Paris", and proved as good as her word when during World War II she aided the French resistance. As she refused to perform for segregated audiences in America, she chose to remain in Europe.The American composer Valerie Coleman attempted to capture something of the many facets of this remarkable woman and her journey from St. Louis to Paris in a wind quintet entitled “Portraits of Josephine.” Music Played in Today's Program Valerie Coleman (b. 1970) – “Thank you Josephine (J'ai deux amours),” fr Portraits of Josephine (Imani Winds) Koch KIC-7696

Synopsis Long before Beyoncé, there was Josephine Baker.  Born Freda Josephine McDonald on today's date in 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri, at age 15 she talked her way into the chorus line at a local vaudeville theater, and from there headed first to New York at the height of the Harlem Renaissance, and then on Paris and the Folies Bergère. where as a singer and dancer she quickly became a sensation. By that time Freda Josephine McDonald had reinvented herself as Josephine Baker. She was for Parisians the embodiment of the Jazz Age, the "Black Venus," and the hippest American on the planet.  She became a naturalized French citizen, married a wealthy French industrialist, and raised her 12 adopted children in France.  In one of her most famous songs, she sang, "I have two loves, my country and Paris", and proved as good as her word when during World War II she aided the French resistance. As she refused to perform for segregated audiences in America, she chose to remain in Europe.The American composer Valerie Coleman attempted to capture something of the many facets of this remarkable woman and her journey from St. Louis to Paris in a wind quintet entitled “Portraits of Josephine.” Music Played in Today's Program Valerie Coleman (b. 1970) – “Thank you Josephine (J'ai deux amours),” fr Portraits of Josephine (Imani Winds) Koch KIC-7696

The year 2020 was challenging for the entire world. We were not only facing the largest pandemic in a century, but here in America we were also continuing the fight toward true equality. And this is certainly true in the musical world as it is in so many fields. For too long, many incredibly gifted composers have not had their powerful voices heard and represented enough in the vast canon of orchestral literature. In this week’s episode Mike, Stephanie, and Jason share with you our list of 10 composers of color whose music you should know. We hope that you will find their work as compelling, beautiful, and rich as we do. This week on Beethoven Walks into a Bar. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLT2CuvHMNPENKozokIzxLIPBWmVRdfMZv (Celebrating Composers of Color – YouTube Playlist) https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3Cn9pTm5upic8JxtxO5WjO?si=Z-UGGwM2R1S3FhNQlz6tyg (Celebrating Composers of Color – Spotify Playlist) ·      https://michaelabels.com/ (Michael Abels) ·      http://www.terenceblanchard.com/ (Terence Blanchard) ·      https://www.vcolemanmusic.com/ (Valerie Coleman) ·      https://www.glfcam.com/people/gabriela (Gabriela Lena Frank) ·      https://hannahkendall.co.uk/ (Hannah Kendall) ·      http://www.rayfieldallied.com/artists/daniel-kidane (Daniel Kidane) ·      https://www.jessiemontgomery.com/ (Jessie Montgomery) ·      https://www.npr.org/artists/686766837/florence-price (Florence Price) ·      http://www.errollynwallen.com/music?page=music&id=collaborators (Errollyn Wallen) ·      https://www.shelleywashington.com/ (Shelley Washington)

Valerie Coleman is committed to storytelling through her music, no matter the idiom. NewMusicBox editor Frank J. Oteri talks with her about her early realization that she is a composer and what a composer's responsibilities are. To read a complete transcription of this podcast, visit NewMusicBox: https://nmbx.newmusicusa.org/valerie-coleman-writing-music-for-people/

Flutist and Chatham University faculty member, CMU grad, Zoe Sorrell presents American Awakening Friday November 20 at 4pm on the Chatham University YouTube channel. It's all-American music from Katherine Hoover (whose flute Zoe plays the concert on). Ruth Crawford Seeger, Valerie Coleman ,Margarete Zelenaia whose Solitude seems just right for the pandemic mood and at the end The Pied Piper of Harlem from Adolphus Hailstork. She speaks about the current awakening of music by women and African American composers  and tells Jim Cunningham what she covers when she teaches ethnomusicology at Westminster College, what she recommends for reading during the Covid crisis, her favorites from finishing a degree in literature at Oberlin and why we always need a few more flutists.

Explore the beautiful music of flutist and composer Valerie Coleman and hear her ensemble, Imani Winds. Episode 20 playlist Valerie Coleman: Silver Rain — She discovered she was an amazing flutist who could write beautiful music. LISTEN — Valerie Coleman:Silver Rain by Valerie Coleman: Umoja — Umoja is Ki-Swahili for the word 'Unity'. This piece is performed by her ensemble, Imani Winds. LISTEN — Valerie Coleman: Umoja by Valerie Coleman: Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit — She wrote this piece to sounds like an African American church choir singing. LISTEN — Valerie Coleman: Ev'ry Time I Feel the Spirit by You can now search and listen to YourClassical Kids Corner where podcasts are found. Explore more from YourClassical Adventures! What are you curious about? You must be 13 or older to submit any information to American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about things like our programs, products and services. See Terms of Use and Privacy.

1. Allison Loggins-Hull - Hammershttps://youtu.be/ANZrjcAiqPU2. Valerie Coleman - Shotgun Houseshttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2ThyYRZwAsJrYeqtEan5eXTomeka Reid - Present Awareness, Mvt. III. Radical Hopehttps://youtu.be/4b4CkxraLXkPanelists:Alisha Patterson is the co-founder and Managing Director of Afro House. Since the organization’s founding in 2011, Patterson has been at the forefront of producing live experiences that are in alignment with its ambitious mission. They include, Cloud Nebula, an Afrofuturistic sci-fi opera-ballet, the Afro House Concert Series, which celebrates Baltimore’s extraordinary maker scene, and the 100 Year Symposium, a conversation about what a community might be like in 100 years.As one of Afro House’s chief architects, Alisha has successfully secured funding from foundations such as the T. Rowe Price and Robert W. Deutsch Foundations. In addition, she has played an instrumental role in the commissions Afro House has received from both local and regional theaters and the highly acclaimed choreographer Camille A. Brown. She also worked closely with Afro House’s Artistic Director on creating his award-winning Baker Artist Portfolio.In 2016 Alisha was tapped by Kaisha Johnson, the Founding Director of Women of Color in the Arts to manage the organization’s flagship program. Under Alisha’s stewardship, the Leadership Through Mentorship program has become a highly sought-after career and community building opportunity for entry level, mid-career and seasoned arts administrators of color. Kibibi Ajanku, the GBCA's Equity and Inclusion Director, appointed Alisha to the Urban Arts Leadership Council in 2019. Alisha has an MA in Organizational Management from The George Washington University, a BA in English Literature and Certificate of Concentration in Women’s Studies from the University of Cincinnati.Scott Patterson is a pianist, composer and librettist of incomparable talent, whose work has been described by the Pittsburgh Review-Tribune as “a masterly blend of virtuosity, singing style and beautiful voicing.” His blend of classical, soul and rock music is futuristic, emotive and luxuriant. Since 2012 Patterson has toured with Camille A. Brown & Dancers. He is contributing composer of the Bessie Award winning Mr. TOL E. RAncE and Brown’s critically acclaimed work, BLACK GIRL: Linguistic Play and ink. His compositions for these have been performed for audiences at venues such as Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, Belfast Festival at Queen’s, White Bird, and more.Patterson is co-founder and Artistic Director of Afro House, a Baltimore-based art house committed to creating disruptive, music culture. Through Afro House, Patterson leads the Astronaut Symphony, a contemporary ensemble that creates symphonic performance art pieces. His compositions for the ensemble include the Afrofuturistic opera-ballet, Cloud Nebula and the sci-fi tone poem Ebon Kojo: The Last Tribe. He also serves as Music Director and Composer for the Afro House Concert Series. Patterson is a 2020 Saul Zaentz Innovation Fund Fellow and a recipient of the 2020 Regional Independent Artist Award for Performing Arts from the Maryland State Arts Council. He is a 2019 Baker Artist Award, Mary Sawyers Imboden Awardee, and is a recipient of a Creative Baltimore Fund Grant and Artist/District Grant. He studied under Richard Fields at the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music and Phillip Kawin at the Manhattan School of Music.

Flute 360 | Episode 125: “Jason Heath’s Podcast Journey. Creative Ideas for Your Next Online Project!” (1:20:49) In today’s episode, Heidi talks with Jason Heath who is the podcast creator and host of Contrabass Conversations! Jason shares his podcast journey and the many wonderful opportunities that have resulted from his online platform. Listen to today’s content to be inspired to start your own journey! Especially in today’s climate, musicians need to have an online presence so eyes and ears are on your products, services, and offerings! Contact Heidi, so she can help you through the setup and launch of your own podcast!! Episode 125  – Main Points: 0:30 – Let’s work together, so your creative ideas can be seen and heard! 3:00 – Welcome & Introduction! 11:09 – Elisa Janson who hosts and produces the Music Ed Mentor Podcast 11:36 – Question 11:40 – Answer 18:00 – Jason talks about his content creating process. 22:22 – Libsyn 23:35 – PicMonkey & Hootsuite 23:49 – “I like to wear a hat for as long as possible each day. For example, I will put my creativity hat on for the day. I just find that it helps.” – Jason 28:50 – Jason talks about using music festivals as a springboard to gather content for his podcast’s episodes. 32:20 – The Art of Communication 32:28 – Episode 19 with Eric Jay Begay 33:01 – Episodes 120-124 with Eric Jay Begay 33:16 – Jason talks about the imposter syndrome. 37:18 – Question 37:25 – Answer 37:46 – Episode 10 with Dr. Sam Hood 39:25 – Daniel Dorff and Valerie Coleman, composers 40:15 – Jason Heath’s & Bailey Brown’s Project, Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas 44:42 – Metallica, heavy metal band 46:49 – Topic: Social Media & Marketing 47:52 – Taylor Rossi, website design and digital marketer for musicians 48:03 – Kim Walsh Phillips, social media marketer 49:23 – Topic: Newsletters 50:23 – Jason talks about how to market a podcast. Channels to consider are Facebook business pages, e-mail lists, and other social media platforms. 52:21 – Build your e-mail list! 53:00 – Build your own podcast app through Libsyn! 1:14:13 – Jason dives more into details about his podcast journey. 1:18:11 – PorterFlute Pod with Amy Porter 1:18:43 – “The rising tide lifts all the boats.” – John F. Kennedy 1:19:07 – Learn Flute Podcast with Rebecca Fuller 1:19:50 – Conclusion 1:20:28 – Bronze Sponsor: J&K Productions Episode 125 – Resources Mentioned: Jason Heath’s Website Contrabass Conversations Podcast! WhatsApp: Chat with Heidi! Sign-Up for the Flute 360 Podcast Newsletter! Dr. Heidi Kay Begay’s Website Episode 125 – Sponsors: Gold & Bronze Level: J&K Productions

De hele maand juli heerlijk langzame en ook een tikkeltje lome muziek in Vrije Geluiden... laat de zwoele zomeravonden maar komen! Vanavond een keuze uit onder meer de Black Composers Series van het Amerikaanse label Cedille. Muziek van Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson, George Walker, Valerie Coleman, Adolphus Cunningham Hailstork en Hamza El Din.

Book marketer, books author, public speaker and book festival founder, the one-and-only Valerie Coleman, is our feature Off The Shelf Books Talk Radio guest on Saturday, April 18, 2020!! Catch Valerie Coleman starting at 11am/EST (New York City time) on Saturday, April 18. Many in the book industry are familiar with Valerie Coleman and her literary work.  If this is your first time meeting this book writing and book marketing guru, keep reading. We'll share more about Valerie here. But, if you want to bless yourself with tips and advice that Valerie Coleman has, tune into Off The Shelf Books Talk Radio on Saturday, April 18 at 11am/EST! During the feature literary radio interview, Off The Shelf Books Talk Radio host, author Denise Turney, will sit down with Valerie Coleman and dive into questions about working with book illustrators, crafting an engaging story, launching a book festival and how to become an overnight success.  Listeners will also get tips on how to market books using social media. How to become a success marketing books offline will also be looked at.  Authors, book writers and book marketers, if you're looking for ways to introduce your books to more readers and sell more copies of your books, catch Off The Shelf Books Talk Radio! If you're an avid book reader, someone who loves the literary arts, catch the show to meet this sharp, creative and business smart books pro! Valerie Coleman is a bestselling author and an award winning publisher. She has more than 15 years of book publishing industry knowledge and experience. Valerie is the founder of the Dayton Book Expo, quite an accomplishment. The Dayton Book Expo has hosted more than 700 authors.  Listener dial-in number:  (347) 994-3490 Saturday, April 18, 2020 at 11am/EST (New York City time) Listener dial-in number:  (347) 994-3490

Flute 360 | Episode 56: “Academic Highlights at Texas Woman’s University” (42:38) In today’s episode, Heidi talks with the Flute Pedagogy class at Texas Woman’s University. Dr. Danielle Woolery who is a clarinetist and a music education specialist teaches the pedagogy class. My time at TWU was eventful with a Flute 360 presentation and then the recording of this episode. The TWU students talk about their academic successes throughout the year, their unique projects, and many other topics. Check out today’s episode! Episode 56 – Main Points: 0:26 – Gold Sponsor: Interactive Flute Retreat, South Haven, MI 1:15 – Welcome & Episode Topics 3:11 – Flute Pedagogy Course 3:26 – Dr. Danielle Woolery 3:32 – Class Topics: methodologies, résumés, studio lesson handbooks, interviews 4:45 – Caitlin: Lessons learned from the flute pedagogy course. 4:56 – Method Books: beginner & intermediate levels, scale books, and more! 6:05 – David: How to write a recommendation letter for our students. 6:55 – Flute 360’s Episode 20: Recommendation Letters 7:31 – Giovanni: Explore our teaching methods through literature. 8:05 – Giovanni & Caitlin: Supportive Environment 9:14 – Networking and Collaboration 10:20 – David: Flute Literature and Flute Pedagogy Courses 11:31 – Target’s Bookshelves 12:23 – Caitlin: Personalized Courses 12:56 – Résumés 13:24 – Every flutist has their own unique place within the music community! 14:10 – TWU’s Department of Music – Pedagogy Degree 15:55 – Caitlin’s comments 17:52 – Heidi: Life is a great teacher! 18:14 – Caitlin graduates May 2019 from TWU. 19:04 – Dr. Woolery’s comments 19:34 – TWU’s Teaching Assistantships through the Department of Music. 19:51 – David: Requirements for the T.A. 21:03 – Changing different hats as a musician. 21:21 – Caitlin: Teaching and Grading 22:35 – Building confidence and gaining experience. 23:00 – Mentorship 23:21 – Caitlin comments about her teaching assistantship. 23:29 – Denton State Supported Living Center, TX 24:44 – Time Management 25:31 – Texas Flute Society 26:12 – Jacob Wright, TFS - Festival Co-Chair 27:01 – Giovanni: Music Family at TWU 30:00 – Topic #3 30:08 – David: TWU’s Flute Pedagogy Workshop 31:14 – Flute 360’s Episode 37 with Valerie Coleman 31:44 – Dr. Danielle Woolery mentions students’ projects! 32:07 – Flute Quartet Project (Paula, Caitlin, Jacob, and special mention, David) 32:30 – Caitlin comments on the group’s flute quartet project! 32:48 – Prescribed Music List (PML) 35:38 – Click here for the PDF or contact Caitlin Rose. 36:39 – Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear 37:25 – National Association of College Wind and Percussion Instructors 38:04 – Gio’s project. 41:04 – Conclusion! 41:57 – Bronze Sponsor: J&K Productions’ Website Episode 56 – Resources Mentioned: TWU – Dr. Danielle Woolery TWU – Dr. Pamela Youngblood TWU – The Department of Music TWU Student: Paula Hartsough’s Website TWU Student: Caitlin Rose’s Website TWU Student: David Wright’s Instagram TWU Student: Giovanni Perez’s Facebook Flute 360 – Dr. Heidi Kay Begay’s Website Episode 56 – Sponsors: Gold: Interactive Flute Retreat, South Haven, MI Silver & Bronze: J&K Productions’ Website

Flute 360 | Episode 44: “Competition Repertoire Guides with Jake Fridkis” (57:22) In today’s episode, Heidi talks with Jake Fridkis who is the principal flutist with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. We talk about specific repertoire requirements for NFA and TFS competitions that are approaching. Repertoire includes Telemann’s Fantasie in A Major, Büsser’s Prélude et Scherzo, and Coleman’s Danza de la Mariposa! Finally, Jake gives some general tips to successfully prepare for a flute competition.    Episode 44 – Main Points: 0:28 – William S. Haynes Co. Website 1:40 – Repertoire requirements for NFA & TFS competitions. See links below. 2:19 – General suggestions for competition preparation. 3:06 – “If I was looking at the piece...the first thing I’d be focused on is how can I get all of this stuff on the page into my performance?” – Jake 4:08 – “If you go into any flute competition trying to improve your flute playing, as your first goal, you can’t lose!” – Jake 5:17 – “You don’t have control over the outcome, so don’t try to control it.” – Jake 6:33 – Telemann’s Fantasie in A Major 6:52 – “For Telemann, you are the show!” – Jake   10:14 – Jasmine Choi, James Galway, Emmanuel Pahud, Jean-Pierre Rampal 10:21 – Amy Porter’s DVD of Telemann’s 12 Fantasias 10:41 – Bärenreiter’s Publication, urtext edition 11:17 – Bach’s Partita in A minor for solo flute – BWV 1013 13:20 – Quantz’s “On Playing the Flute” 13:23 – Robert Donington’s “A Performer’s Guide to Baroque Music” 14:23 – Jed Wentz, flutist, conductor, and teacher 15:39 – Nicholas McGegan, conductor 16:57 – Kim Pineda, flutist and musicologist 18:08 – Early music experts 18:31 – Finger vibrato 19:06 – Summary of the Telemann 19:14 – Traverso flute– experiment with this instrument! 20:20 – Büsser’s Prélude et Scherzo 21:09 – Jake talks about the Prélude! 23:12 – “Be flexible with your dynamics.” – Jake 24:30 – “French music is all about flow. If you listen to Ravel and Debussy it’s this amazing wash of colors and sounds.” – Jake 24:49 – Melody at the 6/4 time signature 25:17 – Debussy’s “Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune” 26:22 – Ravel, composer 26:46 – Conservatoire de Paris 29:25 – “Those are real notes in real time.” – Heidi quoting Dr. Sarah McKoin 31:04 – Büsser’s Scherzo 32:58 – “Don’t be afraid to have fun; this is all happy, fun music!” – Jake 33:37 – Cadenza 35:04 – Film: Matrix (1999) 36:12 – “I practice fast things extremely slowly. It’s effective because I am working on my sound. Then, when I play fast, my air knows where to go.” – Jake 37:01 – NFA’s Professional Flute Choir Competition 38:34 – Valerie Coleman’s “Danza de la Mariposa” 39:10 – Valerie Coleman, flutist and composer 39:24 – “We can show our full range and what we can do with the flute.” – Jake 40:47 – Fanfare opening! 42:44 – Singing and playing as tone exercises. 44:53 – Extended Techniques: Flutter tonguing 46:54 – Butterfly House, Dallas, TX 48:14 – Listen to Valerie play! 48:30 – Listen to “butterfly” pieces for other instruments! 48:50 – Jake’s final competition suggestions. 49:32 – Eastern Music Festival’s Application 50:00 – David Cramer, flutist 53:31 – Jake’s YouTube Channel 54:40 – Jolivet’s Chant de Linos 55:08 – Conclusion 55:37 – Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 – upcoming FWSO concert! 55:48 – Pam Adams, FWSO flutist Episode 44 – Resources Mentioned: Jake’s YouTube Channel Jake’s Instagram Jake’s Twitter FWSO – Jake’s Bio NFA’s Professional Flute Choir Competition NFA’s Convention Performers Competition Texas Flute Society’s Myrna Brown Competition William S. Haynes Co. Flutes’ Instagram William S. Haynes Co. Flutes’ Twitter William S. Haynes Co. Flutes' Facebook Heidi Kay Begay's Website Episode 44 – Sponsors: Gold Level: William S. Haynes Co. Website Silver Level: Contact Heidi for more details! Bronze Level: J&K Productions’ Website

Valerie Coleman was creative long before learning how to play the flute. At a young age, she started to write music down and began writing symphonies by the time she was 11. Since then, Valerie Coleman has established her career as the flutist and resident composer of the wind quintet, Imani Winds. Valerie shared with me more about collaboration, composition, and the next phase in her career.

Flute 360 | Episode 37: “An Interview with Valerie Coleman” (40:37) In today’s episode, Heidi talks with Professor Valerie Coleman who is a flutist, composer, and teacher. In August of 2018, she was appointed as Assistant Professor of Performance, Chamber Music, and Entrepreneurship at Frost School of Music in Miami, Florida! Today, Heidi and Valerie talk about the creative process and Valerie’s past and current projects! Episode 37 – Main Points: 1:00 – Welcome! 1:17 – Frost School of Music, FL 2:12 – Valerie’s Background 2:50 – Valerie’s Compositions 2:59 – Trudy Kane, flutist 3:06 – Flute New Music Consortium 3:18 – Carol Wincenc, flutist 4:00 – NFA: 2018 Convention in Orlando 4:25 – Imani Winds 5:48 – “Taking risks is saying: Make a commitment!” – Valerie 6:45 – Marcel Moyse, flutist 7:34 – Imposter syndrome! 7:58 – “Proper practice prevents piss poor performance!” – Quote 9:06 – Question: How did you get into composing? 9:12 – Valerie’s Answer 12:04 – Valerie’s mother runs a daycare (going strong for 53 years)! 14:16 – Question: What is your writing process like? 14:33 – Valerie’s Answer 14:58 – Reference to Gary Schocker’s Episode 36 – check it out here! 18:20 – Being aware of what you are doing with your body! 19:15 – Improvise! 23:40 – Question: What is your favorite composition? 24:18 – Valerie’s Answer 24:38 – “Everything has its season!” – Valerie 25:57 – Henri Matisse, French artist 27:09 – Question: Any suggestions for the budding new composer? 27:27 – Gary Schocker, flutist 27:45 – “You are already creative!” – Valerie 28:52 – Dutilleux’s Sonatine for flute and piano – purchase here! 29:50 – “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert 33:00 – Question: Any last comments? 33:13 – Valerie Coleman, Amanda Harberg, and Nicole Chamberlain’s course - Summer of 2020! (University of South Carolina – 1st year!) 34:32 – Dedication to Katherine Hoover! 39:10 – Conclusion Episode 37 – Picks: Heidi Frankincense and Myrrh Essential Oils! Episode 37 – Resources Mentioned: “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert Frost School of Music at The University of Miami Valerie Coleman’s Website Valerie Coleman’s Compositions Theodore Presser – Valerie Coleman Frost School of Music's News - Valerie Coleman YouTube Video: “Celebrating Women Composers” Valerie Coleman Performs “Fanmi Imèn” at NFA (2018) Imani Winds Imani Winds Perform “Umoja” Heidi Kay Begay’s Website Episode 37 – Sponsors: J&K Productions’ Website

Des accords rêche et dense : une ouverture d’une pièce qui sonne le sérieux. Lynn Bechtold, violoniste du duo de violon Miolina, parle de Migrations de Valerie Coleman, qui a pour sujet l'histoire raciste aux États Unis, historique et contemporain. La pièce est sur le programme d'Infuse, qui présente Miolina (Lynn Bechtold et Mioi Takeda, violons) le vendredi 14 septembre 2018, à La Fine Gueule, 21 rue du docteur Leray, 75013 Paris Interview en anglais, traduction en français ici: www.ensembleinfuse.com/podcast.html Concert : https://www.facebook.com/events/296717781072754/ Miolina : http://miolinanyc.wixsite.com/miolina (Réalisation et montage : Sarah Elzas)

Irene Wade interviews  Tyrone Givens,best selling author, of The Bennu Project. He discusses how he infuses this science fiction work with historical facts in order to engage and educate readers.  He also discusses his passion for community and family and how that has impacted his writings.  He is joined in the studio with his wife, two sons and his mentor Valerie Coleman.  An awesome interview that reveals the heart of the writer and his passion to impact the lives of readers in a positive way.    Author Bio Fed up with the stereotypical caricatures used to falsely portray the Black culture, Tyrone Givens is committed to creating heroes and heroines as positive images for our children. To reverse the less-than-flattering qualities that diminish self-esteem, self-worth and cultural value, this master storyteller entertains readers with science fiction plots infused with historical facts often omitted from school curriculum. Givens, a home-school educator whose high school-aged children are attending college, is a multi-lingual, federally-licensed airplane pilot. The Bennu Project is the culmination of his passions: empowering Black children, accurate depiction of our history, and rebuilding our community. TyroneGivens.com  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram : The Bennu Project 

Irene Wade interviews Valerie J. Lewis Coleman who discusses love and relationships, self-awareness and becoming the queen that you already are! Valerie gives real, sound, and powerful advice to help you meet your relationship goals! This interview will have you laughing, challenge you, but also inspire you. Whether you are married, single, or dating this interview is relevant and empowering.  Valerie also discusses her upcoming event It's Still Raining Men at The Goody Box Chronicles on Saturday October 21, 2017 6pm-9pm. Guest will receive pampering, dinner, a phenomenal male panel and much more! For more information about this event and to register go to TheGoodyBoxChroniclesOct2017.eventbrite.com, seating is limited. 

The latest episode of Cedille's Classical Chicago Podcast features an interview with virtuoso clarinetist, Anthony McGill. In conversation with Steve Robinson and Cedille President Jim Ginsburg, Anthony discusses his new album with the McGill/McHale Trio including working with his brother, the challenges of performing in such an unusual ensemble, and his interest in recording new works like Valerie Coleman's "Portraits of Langston."

Each day during February, we posted a “Classical Music Moment in Black History” on our Facebook page to show the contributions of black artists to classical music throughout history. We’ve collected our twenty-eight February entries in this article. By the way, these entries were originally part of an episode of the Classical Classroom podcast (audio included below).  Composer Chevalier de Saint-Georges.  In the mid-to-late 1700’s, Chevalier de Saint-Georgeswas an Afro-French composer who was also France’s best fencer. After Napoleon re-instituted slavery in France, de Saint-Georges’ works were rarely played, though lots of his work has been recorded since the 1970’s. In 1803, virtuoso violinist George Bridgetower, who had studied under the leader of the Royal Opera, played with Beethoven. Beethoven then dedicated his Violin Sonata No. 9 in A Major to Bridgetower, and they premiered the piece together. Later, the two had a falling out – something to do with a lady – and Beethoven changed the piece’s name. It’s now called the Kreutzer Sonata. Poet Rita Dove wrote a book about Bridgetower and Beethoven’s relationship. Soprano Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, “The Black Swan”.  In 1853, soprano Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield – people knew her as the “Black Swan” – made her New York debut at the Metropolitan Hall. While she could sing, her skin color would have denied her entrance to the concert. But that didn’t slow Greenfield down: In 1854, this classy lady sang a command performance before Queen Victoria. Composer Scott Joplin.  In 1868, innovative composer and pianist Scott Joplin was born in Texas. Joplin wrote 2 operas, one ragtime ballet, and 44 original ragtime pieces before he died. Composer Harry Thacker Burleigh.  From 1892-95, Antonin Dvorak – not black as you might know, but stick with me – was director of the National Conservatory of Music in New York City. The woman who founded the school, Jeanette Thurber, opened the school to men, women, blacks, and whites – pretty unusual for that time. Dvorak felt that a true American style of music should grow out of African- and Native-American music. Harry Burleigh, one of the earliest African-American composers and one of Dvorak’s pupils, introduced Dvorak to American spirituals. In 1898, Afro-British composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor wrote the musical Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast. It was wildly successful during his lifetime. Coleridge-Taylor also visited the States and inspired American blacks to become composers. Tenor Roland Hayes.  In 1921 tenor Roland Hayes gave a performance before King George V of England. In 1923, Hayes debuted at Carnegie Hall. He was the first African American man to become famous worldwide as a concert performer, and he became one of the world’s greatest Lieder interpreters. In 1926, Undine Smith Moore graduated cum laude from the Juilliard School. She was the first graduate of Fisk University, a historically black school, to receive a scholarship to Juilliard. According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Moore became “…one of this country’s most prominent composers and arrangers of choral works, many based on or inspired by Negro spirituals and folk songs.” Composer William Grant Still.  1931 was the year William Grant Stillbecame the first Black American composer to have a symphonic work performed by a major American orchestra. The Rochester Philharmonic performed his Afro-American Symphony. Stills had another big “first” in 1949 when his opera Troubled Island – based on a libretto by Langston Hughes – was performed by the New York City Opera, becoming the first opera by a black person to be performed by a major company. William Grant Still was also the first black man to conduct a major orchestra (LA Phil) and he won 2 Guggenheim fellowships. In 1933, Caterina Jarboro became the first black woman to appear in a leading role with a major American opera when she again played the title role in Aida with the Chicago Opera.  Composer Florence Price. Also in 1933, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performed Florence Price’s Symphony in E Minor. She was the first female African-American composer to have a symphonic composition performed by a major American symphony orchestra. Baritone Todd Duncan and Anne Brown. Culver Pictures/file 1935. In 1935, George Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess opened on Broadway, with baritone Todd Duncan as Porgy, and sopranos Anne Brown as Bess and Ruby Elzy as Serena. In 1945, Todd Duncan became the first African American to sing with a major American opera company, when he played the role of Tonio Leoncavallo’s I Pagliacci with the New York City Opera. Contralto Marian Anderson In 1939, both the Daughters of the American Revolution and the District of Columbia’s Board of Education refused to allow contralto Marian Anderson to use Constitution Hall and Central High School auditorium for a recital respectively. So, she gave her concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial instead, drawing a crowd of 75,000 – not to mention the millions who listened on the radio. (To read more about the performance, go here.) Lyric Soprano Camilla Williams (l) with Margery Mayer. Courtesy of Fred Fehl/New York City Opera. Also in 1945, lyric soprano Camilla Williams signed a contract with the New York City Opera in 1946, becoming the first African American to do so with a major American opera company. She debuted with the role of the heroine in Madama Butterfly. And in 1947, soprano Helen Phillips was the first African American to sing on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera. In 1951 William Warfield and Muriel Rahn were the first black concert artists on TV – they appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show. Soprano and educator Dorothy Maynor. In 1953, soprano and educator Dorothy Maynor was the first black person to sing at a US presidential inauguration when she performed the national anthem for Dwight Eisenhower. Composer Margaret Bonds. Wikimedia Commons. Margaret Bonds, who frequently collaborated with Langston Hughes, was one of the first black composers and performers in the US to gain recognition. In 1965, when the Freedom March on Montgomery, Alabama took place, she wrote Montgomery Variations for orchestra, dedicating it to Martin Luther King, Jr.. For more information about Ms. Bonds, check out this piece from WBUR 90.9 FM. Conductor Henry Lewis. In 1968 Henry Lewis became the first black conductor and music director of a major American orchestra when he was appointed to the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. He was also the first African-American to conduct at the Metropolitan Opera. 1972 saw Scott Joplin’s opera Treemonisha finally premiere – 55 years after his death – at the Atlanta Memorial Arts Center. In 1976, Joplin posthumously received a special Pulitzer Prize for his contributions to American music. Trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. Photo by Luigi Beverelli. Courtesy Mr. Marsalis’ website. In 1983 and 1984, trumpeter Wynton Marsalis became the only artist ever to win Grammy Awards for both jazz and classical records. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1997 for Blood on the Fields, a three-hour oratorio for 3 singers and a 14-member ensemble. The oratorio follows the story of an African couple sold into slavery in the US. In 1987, conductor Paul Freeman became Founding Musical Director of the Chicago Sinfonietta. This orchestra’s mission is “Musical Excellence Through Diversity”. Dr. Freeman served for 24 years. Violinist Aaron Dworkin. Courtesy of the MacArthur Foundation website. Violinist Aaron Dworkin founded the non-profit Sphinx Organization in 1996 to cultivate the development of young black and Latino musicians in the classical music profession. The Sphinx Competition, spotlights young black and Latino string players on a national platform. Composer George Walker received the Pulitzer Prize in 1996 for Lilacs for Voice and Orchestra, a work commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra as part of its tribute to tenor Roland Hayes. This was the first time a living African American won the prize for music. Mezzo-Soprano Denyce Graves. Courtesy of the artist’s website. In 2001 mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves sang “America the Beautiful” and “The Lord’s Prayer” at the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance Service at the Washington National Cathedral following the September 11 attacks. James DePriest conducting the Oregon Sympony. Courtesy of the Sympony’s website. In 2005, James DePriest, one of classical music’s most accomplished conductors who at the time of his death in 2013 was Laureate Music Director of the Oregon Symphony and Director Emeritus of Conducting and Orchestral Studies at the Juilliard School, received the National Medal of Arts. Tim Brooks won a 2007 Grammy award for Best Historical Release with his Lost Sounds: Blacks and the Birth of the Recording Industry, which includes performances by Harry Burleigh, Roland Hayes, and Edward Boatner. Tenor Noah Stewart. Photograph: Mitch Jenkins Mitch Jenkins/PR. In 2012, tenor Noah Stewart became the first black musician to top the UK Classical Album Chart. Of course, we had to leave a GAGILLION people out of our daily Black History Month Facebook posts because (duh) there are just not enough days in the month. Like Jeffrey Mumford, Awadagin Pratt, David Baker, Imani Winds, André Watts, Chelsea Tipton, Thomas Wilkins, Morris Robinson, Lawrence Brownlee, Valerie Coleman, Rachel Jordan, and Tona Brown. And Daniel Bernard Roumain. And Black Violin. And… you get the idea!  But, blacks are still one of classical music’s most under-served communities. As of 2011, according to the League of American Orchestras, only 1.83% of our nation’s orchestras’ makeup was black. Aaron Dworkin has pointed out that African-American composers are often missing in traditional classical music station programming. But people like Dworkin and many others are working to change that!  We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about all of these awesome artists.

Valerie J. Lewis Coleman has helped women find relational fulfillment by identifying the four types of male hunters, avoiding seventy percent of men who only want the goody box, and winning the heart of Mr. Right-For-You. She explains how she overcame struggles and offers proven techniques to help you get off the crazy cycle of relational demise in her novel, The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box! For information about the sequel, prequel, and upcoming events and to learn more about Valerie, her books, and succeeding as a self-published author visit www.TheGoodyBoxBook.com ! The bestselling author of Blended Families: An Anthology, Valerie has helped thousands of families navigate the challenges of child support, visitation, discipline, and more. With more than twenty years of experience in the field of helping family and their relationships, Valerie has given advice on varying issues including baby-momma drama, defiant children, and disapproving in-laws. On her journey to assist others with building strong families, she shares her testimony and provides practical tools to help you stop the stepfamily madness in your home! As a bestselling author and award-winning publisher, Valerie has helped aspiring authors from across the world navigate the challenges of self-publishing. With over ten years of experience in the book business, this expert divulges industry secrets on avoiding the top five mistakes made by new authors, pricing your book to sell and identifying dishonest publishers. Her dynamic presentation and knowledge of the business takes writers from pen to paper to published as they master self-publishing to make money!

Ohio's Valerie Coleman, found of the Pen to Paper Literary Symposium, sits down with Denise Turney to talk about the rewards and challenges of hosting a writer's conference. The two literary dynamos will also discuss Valerie Coleman's lasted book "Self-Publishing Made Easy" and steps Off The Shelf listeners can take to write, publish and market their own books.

With divorce, single parent households and family crises on the rise, many people are experiencing the tumultuous dynamics of step-families.  In this episode of Divorce Source Radio from The Divorce Expo in Novi, Michigan, the author of Blended Families, Valerie Coleman joins us.   As a step-mother, stepdaughter and now step-grandmother, Valerie has experienced the drama and reward of life in a step-family from multiple perspectives. For years, she struggled to parent five children from three different households. She instilled respect into her two biological sons and assumed the same respect would be honored by her husband’s children. At times, the frustration overwhelmed her. Without the support of family and friends, her marriage would have failed.  If you are experiencing issues within your blended families, this is the program for you.  For more on Valerie Coleman, visit: www.ValerieJLColeman.com.

Valerie J. Lewis Coleman has helped women across the nation find relational fulfillment. With over twenty years of experience in family and relationships, this expert has given advice on various issues including identifying the four types of male hunters, avoiding seventy percent of men who only want the goody box and winning the heart of Mr. Right-For-You. As she assists others with building strong relationships, she shares how she overcame personal struggles and offers proven techniques to help you get off the crazy cycle of relational demise in her bestselling novel THE FORBIDDEN SECRETS OF THE GOODY BOX! To learn more about Valerie, her books and overcoming relational matters, THE FORBIDDEN SECRETS OF THE GOODY BOX – What your father didn't tell you and your mother didn't know  Successful. Beautiful. Intelligent. Yet a satisfying relationship eludes Debra Hampton. At thirty-five years old, she can't figure out why her philosophy on men—and what they want from women—isn't working. She's trapped in a cycle of shattered relationships, until a friend refers her to a relationship guru. After some resistance, Debra finds refuge in the counsel of Doc Reid as he helps her navigate through the storms of rejection and failed love. Once he reveals the error of her ways, will Debra master the forbidden secrets to attract her soul mate or continue to keep love at bay?  Valerie J. Lewis Coleman will openly share her real-life relational challenges with our audience to help them make sound decisions and avoid unnecessary drama. Using humor and wit, she will divulge tips, techniques and suggestions to maneuver through adverse situations and build effective romantic relationships.

According to an Associated Press and LifeGoesStrong.com poll, released on April 5th, almost half of all baby boomers are not confident that they will be able to retire comfortably. On Friday, April 8th, personal finance expert Valerie Coleman Morris, who is a guest blogger on LifeGoesStrong.com and author of the new book "Mind Over Money Matters: It's Your Money, So Take it Personally," will be available to talk about the poll's unnerving findings and offer listeners at every age tips for saving and investing.

Saturday, December 18, 2010 starting at 11 a.m. (EST) on “Off The Shelf Radio” (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Denise-Turney-) Denise Turney sits down with Valerie Coleman, founder of Dayton, Ohio’s Pen to Paper Literary Symposium and the author of Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box. Turney and Coleman will discuss steps that writers, musicians and singers can take to create build a solid audience base. They will also discuss ways to create storylines and characters that connect with and engage readers. Valerie Coleman’s followers who tune into the live interview will be made aware of the author’s upcoming events, book signings and speaking engagements. Book lovers who tune into the show live can have their questions answered directly by Valerie Coleman or /and Denise Turney. On Saturday, December 18, 2010 beginning at 11:00 a.m. (EST) author Valerie Coleman and Denise Turney will connect for an hour during the live on-air feature radio interview at “Off The Shelf.“ Listeners can connect to the interview live by dialing 347-994-3490. They can also connect to the live feature interview thru the Internet at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Denise-Turney-

Watch a great performance of original works by Imani Winds Wind Quintet and then get to know the members Valerie Coleman, Toyin Spellman, Mariam Adam & Monica EllisMusic Academy onLive

Join Denise Turney as she interviews Valerie Coleman, author of Blended Families, to discuss how step parents and children can make their joined families work.

Valerie Coleman, the brain child of one of the nation's leading Christian Writers conference. The 5th Annual Pen to Paper Literary Symposium. www.penofthewriter.com