Florence Price

Florence Price was an influential American composer and pianist, born in 1887 in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was the first African American woman to have her music performed by a major symphony orchestra. Price blended classical music with African American spirituals and folk melodies, creating a unique and rich sound. Her work gained recognition in the early 20th century, and she advocated for racial equality in the arts. Despite facing significant challenges due to her race and gender, Price's legacy endures through her compositions, which are celebrated for their emotional depth and cultural significance. She passed away in 1953.