Rediscovering R. Nathaniel Dett: His Music and Legacy with Pianist Clipper Erickson

Acclaimed pianist and educator Clipper Erickson has devoted much of his career to preserving and celebrating the musical legacy of R. Nathaniel Dett, a pioneering Afro-Canadian composer of African descent who rose to prominence during the early twentieth century. Based in Morrisville, Pennsylvania, Erickson teaches at Westminster Conservatory in Princeton and has also served on the faculty of Temple University, where he earned his doctoral degree and dedicated his dissertation to Dett’s remarkable piano works. This episode commemorates the tenth anniversary of Erickson’s landmark recording of Dett’s complete piano music, released by Navona Records on November 13. The internationally celebrated collection was named a Critics’ Choice by Gramophone UK, one of the world’s most respected classical music publications. Through his passionate performances and extensive scholarship, Erickson has helped introduce Dett’s extraordinary compositions to audiences around the world. He also explores the life, cultural influence, and enduring artistic legacy of a fascinating composer whose beautiful music deserves a far more prominent place in history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.