New February Store Update - Celebrate Black History!

Happy February! This month, the Practice Space store honors Black History Month by featuring avatars of influential Black composers who have left an indelible mark on the music world. Celebrate the groundbreaking achievements and rich musical legacies of these composers, whose works span classical, jazz, and beyond.

Each avatar in our store can be redeemed using Practice Gems, earned by students for meeting their daily practice goals—merging inspiration with educational achievement. This encourages students not only to hone their musical skills but also to connect with the stories and historical significance of these exceptional artists.

To enhance your teaching experience, we’re including a downloadable PDF packet (COMING SOON) with educational activities tied to each composer's profile. This handout features quizzes, intriguing facts, and concise biographies, designed to enrich students' knowledge and appreciation of these composers’ contributions.

Don’t miss out on the YouTube links provided for each composer's notable works, offering a direct route to experience their impactful music. Every avatar is accompanied by unique quotes that bring the voice of each composer into your classroom, sharing their unique perspectives and inspirations.

Discover this February's featured composers and immerse yourself in the profound influence of Black musicians in classical music with us at Practice Space. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore and celebrate the diversity and richness of musical expressions that shape our cultural heritage.

Eleanor Alberga - Born in Jamaica in 1949, Eleanor Alberga is a celebrated composer known for blending classical music with her vibrant Caribbean roots, creating unique and expressive compositions.

Facts in app:

1. I started my career as a concert pianist before diving into composing full-time.

2. My work often features a blend of classical music with Jamaican folk elements.

3. I've composed for the Royal Ballet, which was a thrilling challenge and honor.

4. My opera, 'Letters of a Love Betrayed,' was inspired by a short story and premiered in 2009.

5. I'm also passionate about chamber music and have written extensively for the ensemble format.

6. Check out this performance of Snow White’s Dance:
   Snow-White and the Seven Dwarfs: Snow White's Dance

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Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges- Born in 1745 in Guadeloupe, Bologne, was a virtuoso violinist, conductor, and composer, known as the 'Black Mozart' for his profound impact on classical music in France.

Facts in app:

1. I was not only a celebrated composer but also a champion fencer.

2. My compositions include operas, symphonies, and string quartets that are performed worldwide.

3. I led one of the best orchestras in Europe, the Le Concert des Amateurs.

4. I used my musical platform to advocate for the rights of Black people in France.

5. Check out this performance of Concerto in A:
   Augustin Hadelich plays Chevalier de Saint-Georges Concerto in A, Op. 5/2

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Jessie Montgomery is an acclaimed American composer and violinist whose works integrate classical music with elements of vernacular music, improvisation, and social justice themes.

Facts in app:

1. I began my violin studies at the Third Street Music School Settlement.

2. My compositions are often performed by major orchestras and ensembles across the country.

3. I am deeply involved in music education and advocate for diverse representation in classical music.

4. One of my well-known works, 'Starburst,' is often celebrated for its dynamic and energetic style.

5. I have been a member of the Catalyst Quartet, focusing on music by historically underrepresented composers.

6. Check out this performance of Starburst:
   Jessie Montgomery: Starburst

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Valerie Coleman is a distinguished American flutist and composer, founder of the Grammy-nominated Imani Winds, known for her music that weaves African-American folk music with classical music.

Facts in app:

1. I was named Performance Today's 2020 Classical Woman of the Year.

2. My piece, 'Umoja,' which means unity in Swahili, is a staple in the wind quintet repertoire.

3. I aim to blend classical music with elements from African-American culture to tell powerful stories.

4. I studied with György Ligeti in Hamburg, who significantly influenced my compositional style.

5. I frequently speak on the importance of diversity and inclusion in classical music settings.

6. My works are celebrated for their rhythmic energy and cultural depth.

7. Check out this performance of Umoja:
   Minnesota Orchestra: Valerie Coleman—Umoja, Anthem of Unity for Orchestra

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George Walker was an American composer, pianist, and organist, born in 1922, who became the first African American to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music.

Facts in app:

1. I won the Pulitzer Prize for my work 'Lilacs' for voice and orchestra.

2. I began my formal music education at the age of five.

3. I was the first Black graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music.

4. My compositions include over 90 works, including sonatas, symphonies, and concertos.

5. I was also a dedicated music educator, teaching at several prestigious universities.

6. Check out this performance of Lyric for Strings:
   BBC Proms 2017: George Walker's Lyric For Strings - YouTube

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Background Update

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Some other fun additions
These all cheer the student on but also talk about tempo and other musical terms!