The Life and Artistry of William Grant Still
December 9, 2025
Join Detroit Opera for a captivating free event celebrating the enduring legacy of William Grant Still, one of America’s most significant and groundbreaking composers. Often called the “Dean of African American composers,” Still’s work broke racial barriers and shaped the sound of a nation.
The evening will feature live performances of Still’s powerful music by the Detroit Opera Orchestra and the company’s talented Resident Artists. These performances will be framed by an illuminating discussion on his life and work, led by Music Director Roberto Kalb, Community Programs Director Arthur White, and Director of the Resident Artists Program Nathalie Doucet. Complementing the program, guests can view items from the E. Azalia Hackley Collection of African Americans in the Performing Arts highlighting Still’s career as well as the work of other BIPOC artists.
DETAILS:
DATE: Tuesday, December 9, 2025
TIME: 6:00PM
PLACE: Detroit Public Library, Main Branch, 5201 Woodward Ave, Detroit MI
ADMISSION: Free!
William Grant Still’s one act opera, Highway 1,USA is at the Detroit Opera House December 7-13, 2025