George Walker holds the distinction of being the first Black composer to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 1996 for his composition Lilacs for Voice and Orchestra.
Composer Biography
George Walker, the composer of Sinfonia No. 1, was a child prodigy from Washington, D.C., who enrolled in Oberlin Conservatory at age 14.
Recording & Production
This album is part of a complete cycle of George Walker's five sinfonias, performed and recorded by the National Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Gianandrea Noseda to celebrate the composer's 100th birthday.
Composer's Artistic Vision
George Walker stated that he always thought in universal terms, focusing on quality rather than being limited by categories like 'Black' or 'American' music.
Composer Biography
George Walker was the first Black student to receive the Artist Diploma in both piano and composition from the Curtis Institute of Music in 1945.
Composer Biography
George Walker made history as the first Black instrumentalist to play a recital in New York's Town Hall and the first Black soloist to perform with the Philadelphia Orchestra.
Composition History
George Walker composed five sinfonias between 1984 and 2016, with Sinfonia No. 1 being commissioned by the Fromm Foundation and premiered in 1984.
