Afro-American Symphony

The Afro-American Symphony, composed by William Grant Still in 1930, is a groundbreaking orchestral work that reflects African-American musical traditions within a classical framework. It features five movements that blend jazz, blues, spirituals, and folk influences, showcasing the richness of African-American culture. The symphony demonstrates how these musical elements can be integrated into traditional symphonic form, emphasizing rhythm, expressive melodies, and cultural pride. It was one of the first major symphonies composed by an African-American composer and helped pave the way for greater diversity in classical music.