The first edition of Black Women in American Bands & Orchestras (a Choice Outstanding Academic Book in 1982) was lauded for providing access to material unavailable in any other source. To update and expand the first edition, Handy has revised the profiles of members featured in the first edition, corrected omissions, and added personal and career facts for new faces on the scene. Profiles are presented under the headings of orchestras and orchestra leaders, string players, wind and percussion players, keyboard players, and non-playing orchestra/band affiliates. Features 100 photographs.

This book contains conversations with nineteen African American classical musicians currently performing—or who have previously performed—in America’s major symphony orchestras. Each chapter focuses on the story of one musician and sheds light on the realities of African American musicians playing in a musical environment that absolutely forbade their membership over half a century ago. These conversations explore the deeply ingrained prejudices that some hold against African American people in symphony orchestras, conservatories, and other musical institutions. By amplifying these voices, the book provides a variety of perspectives on the almost cloistered world of these beloved institutions. The stories and lessons shared in this book will be invaluable to music students, teachers, and orchestral professionals.

“Documents the achievements of Black women from slavery to modern times and provides a thorough history of Black women and heroines.” —Midwest Book Review Brave black women have played important roles in American history. Before the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, black women bore the bonds of slavery with courage and strength. Since Emancipation, black women have supported schools, churches, and civic organizations, entered many professions, and helped to build strong communities. This book dramatizes their impressive story and celebrates their achievements. Writing especially for students in grades four through eight, Ruthe Winegarten and Sharon Kahn trace the history of black women from slavery until today. Their story includes many heroines, from Emily Morgan, “the Yellow Rose of Texas,” to pioneer aviator Bessie Coleman, astronaut Mae Jemison, opera singer Barbara Conrad, actresses Phylicia Rashad and Debbie Allen, and Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, whose life story forms the final chapter. In addition to these famous black women, the book also profiles teachers, businesswomen, civil rights leaders, community activists, doctors, nurses, athletes, musicians, artists, and political leaders. Adapted from the award-winning Black Texas Women: 150 Years of Trial and Triumph, it will be fascinating reading for children and their parents and grandparents, teachers, and librarians.

“The truth holds no lies. Lies are what ties you down and tapes your mouth shut. We can run away from all the things we fear. We can hide our troubles with beauty, but a lie will always catch you. The truth is the only thing that will set you free. I didn’t believe that until I wrote it. In this life, we will all face many questions, and sometimes we won’t find the answers. How do you know the difference between what’s real and what’s fake? How do you breathe when you are underwater? What’s the hardest part about goodbye? Every story, every hope, and every word have a purpose. Pen against the pad was like me against the world. Told from not only my eyes, but my heart, and now the words are written for all to see. You can not only read my truth but also find answers to your own questions.” – Destiny Gilchrist

Investigates how the music of Motown Records functioned as the center of the company's creative and economic impact worldwide

Profiles are presented under the headings of orchestras and orchestra leaders, string players, wind and percussion players, keyboard players, and non-playing orchestra/band affiliates. Features 100 photographs.