Championed Composers Series
The Championed Composer Series, launched in 2018 at IN UNISON Partner Churches, is a groundbreaking initiative to celebrate and elevate the works of underrepresented composers, starting with the trailblazing Florence B. Price. Recognized as the first African American woman to gain national notoriety as a composer, Price’s contributions laid the foundation for a series dedicated to illuminating diverse musical voices.
As the series evolves, it aims to feature performances of works by these composers, highlighting a rich tapestry of music. With plans to include a diverse roster of contemporary and historical figures, the Championed Composer Series promises to inspire audiences and musicians alike, ensuring that the legacies of these extraordinary composers continue to resonate for years to come.
Dr. Nkeiru Okoye Project
American composer and lyricist Nkeiru Okoye has been hailed as “gripping” and “evocative” by the New York Times. A Guggenheim Fellow and winner of The American Prize in vocal chamber music, Okoye was a Creator-in-Residence with the Louisville Orchestra for the 2023-24 season. Her music has been commissioned, performed, and presented by the Detroit Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, the Julliard School, Baltimore Symphony, Opera North UK, Houston Grand Opera, the American Opera Project, Moscow Symphony, Tanglewood Music Festival, Virginia Symphony, Tulsa Opera, Royal Opera House (UK), and many others. Okoye believes in engaging communities through her music. She is a mentor composer for the National Association of Teachers of Singing Art Song Initiative and the American Opera Project, Composers and the Voice program. To learn more, visit www.nkeiruokoye.com.
The Florence Price Project
Florence Price (1887–1953) is recognized as the first African American woman symphonic composer. The SLSO is among professional orchestras, chamber groups, and individual artists across the country working to re-introduce Florence Price, her music, and her legacy to the public. Since 2018, SLSO musicians have performed her work during Sunday worship services for more than 4,000 congregants at IN UNISON partner churches. In February 2024, the full orchestra, led by Music Director Stéphane Denève, performed Price’s Symphony No. 3 as part of its 23/24 season Barber and Price program.