As we continue our celebration of Black History Month on VPM Music, I sat down with pianist, curator and host Lara Downes to discuss her latest release "Reflections: Scott Joplin Reconsidered." This is the newest release in her Rising Sun Music series that we have been following as a regular feature on my show. Rising Sun Music brings to life the rich, 200-year lineage of Black composers in America.
In this project, Lara collaborates with baritone Will Liverman, violinist Adam Abeshouse, the Brooklyn Youth Chorus and Joe Brent (on mandolin and vihuela). She is also accompanied by her own band, which includes Judy Kang and Chiara Fasi (violins), Tia Allen (viola), Yves Dharamraj (cello) and Kevin Sun (clarinet and saxophone).
I hope you enjoy our chat!
Yours in good music,
Mike Goldberg Classical Music Host, VPM Music