William Grant Still
Composer
William Grant Still (1895–1978) was an American composer, conductor, and pioneer of classical music, often referred to as the “Dean of African American Composers.” He was the first African American to have a symphony performed by a major U.S. orchestra (Afro-American Symphony, 1931), conduct a major symphony orchestra, and have an opera produced by a leading opera company. Blending classical traditions with elements of African American spirituals, jazz, and blues, Still created a uniquely American sound that broke racial barriers in the world of concert music. His extensive body of work includes symphonies, ballets, operas, and chamber music, leaving a lasting impact on American music history.
