George Walker, a native of Washington, D.C., was a child prodigy who enrolled in Oberlin Conservatory at age 14 and received his Bachelor of Music degree with highest honors at 18.
Composition History
George Walker's Sinfonia No. 4, 'Strands', premiered in March 2012, celebrating his ninetieth birthday.
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.
Recording & Production
The National Symphony Orchestra and Music Director Gianandrea Noseda began performing and recording the complete cycle of George Walker's five sinfonias in January 2022 to celebrate the composer's 100th birthday.
Composer Biography
George Walker holds the distinction of being the first Black composer to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Music in April 1996, for his composition Lilacs for Voice and Orchestra.
Compositional Technique
The subtitle 'Strands' in George Walker's Sinfonia No. 4 refers to elements from two spirituals, 'There is a Balm in Gilead' and 'Roll, Jordan, Roll', which the composer wove into the work.
