About Presenting...
Mission:
To increase knowledge and appreciation of legacy and living composers of the African Diaspora…
…through live performances of their compositions, interpreted by culturally diverse musicians…
…paired with other disciplines for context, ending with community conversations and meaningful accommodations to increase access for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (neurodiverse)
and their families.
Presenting… brings together culturally diverse musicians and conductors who reflect Los Angeles County’s demographics and best talent to offer a series of curated orchestral, solo, and ensemble works at venues around Los Angeles County.
Performances highlight classical music by female and male composers of the African Diaspora, including those from Canada, Guadeloupe, Brazil, France, Guinea, the U.S., Nigeria and England.
Background
In 2018...
The Need
of the top 10 compositions performed in subscription programming include works by “Black” composers.
Our Unique Approach
Presenting AfroClassical Composers is unique because its events feature performances of excerpts and sections of curated compositions instead of performing them in their entirety.
This approach offers listeners a wider range of repertoire and composers while providing greater cultural context than conventional performances of entire compositions.
The printed programs provide listeners with information for further discovery and learning inspired by the live presentation.
All performances are paired with discussions and expert panelists from select disciplines, followed by interactive audience discussions (talkbacks).
Our Impact
You're Invited to Join!
Join us as we work to bring AfroClassical composers and their brilliant works to life for current and future generations of music lovers to appreciate, understand and enjoy.
Our Team
Michael Ligon
Michael Ligon, the Executive and Artistic Officer of Presenting AfroClassical Composers is a seasoned musician, music theory coach, songwriter and music publisher. He has studied piano privately with Pulitzer-prize winning classical composer and world class pianist, Dr. George Walker. He holds a B.S. in Music Education and Performance from Ball State University and a M.A. from Marymount University, Arlington, Virginia.
As a seasoned musician, Mr. Ligon has performed in orchestras backing Ray Charles, Beverly Sills, Ron Carter, Peter Nero, Víctor Borge, and others, and he has performed under the baton of Arthur Fiedler. He has also interpreted a diverse array of songs combining classical, jazz, soul, and adult counterparty styles.
Annual Report
Readers served with Happenings issues
Dozens
of compositions curated for listening
Happenings mailings covering news (articles/books) & developments affecting AfroClassical composers, performances, career opportunities.