Description
Book Synopsis: Florence Price's life is usually summed up by a single accomplishment—as the first African American female composer to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra in the United States. In fact, she composed over three hundred compositions, including four symphonies, two violin concertos, a piano concerto, piano and organ solos, string quartets, choral works, and numerous art songs made famous by contralto Marian Anderson.
Florence Price, born in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1887, began her studies under her music teacher mother. By age eighteen, she had earned two degrees from the New England Conservatory of Music. After a stint as the head of the music department at Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia, she settled in Chicago where her career as a composer took off when she won first prize in the Wanamaker Competition for her Symphony No. 1 in E Minor.
To pursue her career as a composer, Florence Price faced a daunting battle on three fronts. She was a woman in what was considered a man's profession. She was an American when Europeans were considered to be superior composers. The toughest battle was her race, during a time when racial discrimination was endemic. By combining traditional elements with African American folk songs, dance rhythms, spirituals, and jazz, Florence Price's music bursts onto the concert stage as truly American and uniquely her own.
Details
Discover the extraordinary life and groundbreaking music of Florence Price, the trailblazing American Composer. Known for being the first African American female composer to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra in the United States, Price's legacy goes far beyond this momentous achievement. With over three hundred compositions under her belt, including four symphonies, two violin concertos, a piano concerto, piano and organ solos, string quartets, choral works, and renowned art songs, Price's genius is indisputable.
Hailing from Little Rock, Arkansas and honing her craft under her musical mother's guidance, Price's talent blossomed from a young age. By the time she was just eighteen, she had already earned two degrees from the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music. From there, her journey led her to become the head of the music department at Clark Atlanta University before finally settling in Chicago, where her career as a composer soared to new heights. Winning the Wanamaker Competition with her Symphony No. 1 in E Minor was just the beginning.
Against all odds, Florence Price fought on multiple fronts to pursue her passion for music composition. She defied societal norms as a woman in what was predominantly considered a man's profession. In an era dominated by European composers, she proudly established herself as an American powerhouse, shattering any illusions of cultural superiority. Perhaps her greatest battle was fought against the harsh reality of racial discrimination, prevailing during a time when the odds seemed overwhelmingly stacked against her.
What sets Florence Price apart is her ability to seamlessly blend traditional elements with the rich tapestry of African American folk songs, captivating dance rhythms, soulful spirituals, and the vibrant essence of jazz. These vibrant influences infuse her compositions with a distinctively American flavor, creating music that bursts onto the concert stage as a celebration of her heritage and a testament to her remarkable talent.
To immerse yourself in the musical genius of Florence Price, click here and discover a treasure trove of her timeless works. Unleash the power of her music, experience the remarkable journey of an incredible artist, and embrace the true spirit of American creativity.
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