New Episodes Available Beginning October 20
(Philadelphia, October 19, 2023)—The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center, Inc., proudly presents the fourth season of HearTOGETHER, a monthly podcast featuring artists and activists who discuss music, social justice, and the lived experiences that inform the drive to create a more equitable and inclusive future for the arts. The series is hosted by Khadija Mbowe, a social-cultural content creator, performer, and classically trained soprano.
The 2023–24 season of HearTOGETHER will feature the following guests:
Dr. Guthrie Ramsey and Judith Anne Still: Music historian, pianist, composer, and the Edmund J. and Louise W. Kahn Term Professor of Music at the University of Pennsylvania Dr. Guthrie Ramsey will join Judith Anne Still, daughter of the late composer William Grant Still, to discuss her father’s life and music, how his experiences as a Black man informed his compositions, and how, despite his many “firsts,” his music was largely unrecognized until recently. This conversation is connected to The Philadelphia Orchestra’s restoration project of William Grant Still’s works, supported by the Pew Center for Arts and Heritage.
Na’Zir McFadden: Philadelphia native and Assistant Conductor and Phillip & Lauren Fisher Community Ambassador of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Na’Zir McFadden will discuss his career journey—including the time he conducted The Philadelphia Orchestra at the age of 16 during a Pop-Up concert led by Music and Artistic Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin—as well as his advocacy for arts access and education.
J’Nai Bridges: The heralded mezzo-soprano will discuss her rise to international acclaim, race and inequality in opera, and the impact and legacy of Marian Anderson. Bridges is a two-time GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, Curtis Institute of Music graduate, and was the recipient of the 2012 Marian Anderson Award.
Terence Blanchard: The renowned composer and trumpet player will discuss his life and influences, his multi-faceted career, and how art can speak to painful American tragedies and serve as a powerful catalyst for change. This conversation will air in advance of the Philadelphia premiere of Fire Shut Up in My Bones in April at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.
Additional episodes to be announced. HearTOGETHER can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more, as well as at www.philorch.org/heartogether.
HearTOGETHER is supported by lead corporate sponsor Accordant Advisors. Additional major support has been provided by the Otto Haas Charitable Trust.