Representation Matters

I am (still) coming down from the high of my recent guest conducting a concert with the Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis, and I must say that is probably the most fun I have had on the podium in my young conducting career.

Of course, I always have fun on the podium, but I got to share the stage with my brother and my mom; you can’t beat that***

During the intermission, I was approached by an older gentleman and his wife and asked to take a picture with his granddaughter. During our conversation, he mentioned that this concert was the first time he had ever seen a black conductor with an orchestra. In our community, you know a lot of church choir directors and musicians but never an orchestral conductor. Even this morning, I was scrolling through social media and saw a post about Jeri Lynne Johnson and her recent engagement with the Louisiana Philharmonic. Admittedly, this was the first time I had seen a Black woman take the podium. February 23, 2024… was the first time I had seen a Black woman on the podium.

I could make the world’s longest post about the idea of representation because there are so many angles to tackle. Still, I will say that representation is important; it matters and is critical to the longevity of our field.

I grew up around primarily black music educators (which is uncommon in our field). I doubt that I would have made it as far as I have without that foundation in my life. If you are reading this, please consider this idea/concept.

You never know the impact you will have.