William Grant Still

William Grant Still, known as the "Dean of African-American Classical Composers," was a trailblazing American composer whose prolific career spanned nearly 200 works, including five symphonies and nine operas. Born in Mississippi and raised in Little Rock, Still made history as the first American composer to have an opera, "Troubled Island," produced by the New York City Opera, and the first African American to conduct a major U.S. orchestra. His compositions, such as the "Afro-American Symphony" and the orchestral suite "Wood Notes," blend rich textures and warm melodies, reflecting his unique American style. Still's music transcends mere entertainment; he hoped it would serve a larger purpose, contributing to a deeper cultural dialogue. His works, like the "Lyric Quartet" and "Summerland," continue to captivate audiences with their emotional depth and historical significance.