We had the good fortune of connecting with Rhapsody In Ebony and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Rhapsody in Ebony, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve been so very fortunate to achieve many goals in my life. One that remains is to curate my musical art on my own terms with complete freedom. Rhapsody in Ebony is a passion project of mine and I’m so excited to cultivate it and see it thrive!
– Dr. Tia Dionne Roper, Founder/CEO/Artistic Director of Rhapsody in Ebony
What should our readers know about your business?
The word ‘rhapsody’, in musical terms, is a free instrumental composition in one extended movement, typically one that is emotional or exuberant in character. The word ‘ebony’ refers to the color black. Rhapsody in Ebony is the name of the Atlanta-based, classical music ensemble I launched. It is comprised of critically acclaimed, world-class musicians who are of the African diaspora.
We are looking forward to a full performance calendar in the months to come. Presenting works by composers from Mozart to Rachmaninoff is always a treat, and so too is featuring works by African- American and women composers. The musical landscape is so vast and there are so many innovative programs that we will be sharing with audiences in Atlanta and beyond.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the pathway that my ancestors have made. Those classical musicians of African descent who paved the way and were pioneers in the field: Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Florence Price, William Grant Still. The list goes on and on – and because the list goes on and on, Rhapsody in Ebony exists to continue in that legacy.
Website: https://www.rhapsodyinebony.com
Instagram: @rhapsodyinebony
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/@rhapsody.in.ebony
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RhapsodyinEbony
Image Credits
📸 Photography by: Heather LaShun
📸 Photography by: Becca McCoy