The composer, educated at Oberlin Conservatory of Music, took her graduate degrees at Rutgers University. Brought up on Long Island as the daughter of an American mother and a Nigerian father, she is known for her compositions that reflect, not only subjects from the American Black experience, but also her African heritage, as well. She has taught in Nigeria and Ghana, and is interested in combining elements of non-Western and popular music styles with that of the Western \u201cclassical\u201d tradition. Recent works have been inspired by iconic Black women in American history, Harriet Tubman and Phillis Wheatley. But, not to be pigeon-holed, she also is adept at composing in a wide variety of musical styles, and moreover, is a noted \u201csoft sculpture\u201d artist, widely recognized for her multi-cultural dolls.<\/p>\n
Voices Shouting Out<\/em> is a response to the tragedy popularly known as 911, but unlike many artistic responses, it is not a solemn, and grieving exploration of that terrible event which changed forever American definitions of freedom and security. The composer relates that initially her intent was, indeed, to compose in grief, but she simply could not find the voice to do so. Rather, what ensued was a voice of affirmation, a reflection of a determination to move ahead in confidence and unity as a people. This is an artist\u2019s statement of the necessity of national optimism in the midst of profound challenges. In her words, \u201cIt was a march to acknowledge those fighting on behalf of our safety, and yet a sparkling celebration of life for those who continue living.\u201d Voices Shouting Out<\/em> was begun on New Year\u2019s Eve, 2001 and given its premi\u00e8re in February 2202 by The Virginia Symphony.<\/p>\n –Wm. E. Runyan<\/p>\n \u00a9 2015 William E. Runyan<\/p>\n