William Grant Still was the first African American to conduct a major symphony, the first to have his symphony performed by a major orchestra, and the first to have his opera produced by a major company. He is called “the Dean” of African American composers. This month, to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Dr. Still’s birth, the Central Arkansas Library System will host a screening of A Voice High-Sounding: The Life & Career of William Grant Still and a selection of his music performed by the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra’s Quapaw Quartet, followed by a panel discussion.
Not familiar with the iconic composer? Read these snippets from my reminiscences (courtesy of the UALR Center for Arkansas History and Culture), or listen to whole thing here. Arkansas Sounds presents: A Celebration of William Grant Still: Ron Robinson Theater | Feb. 21, 7-9 p.m. | Free; doors open at 6 p.m.