“An organization whose mission is to support and connect classical musicians of African descent has been awarded a substantial grant of $800,000,” reads an unsigned article in Thursday’s (10/21) Strad (U.K.). “Gateways Music Festival has received the award from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation…. As well as assisting Gateways’ ongoing growth and development, the grant will help support its historic Carnegie Hall debut on 24 April 2022, when the Gateways Orchestra will become the first all-Black classical symphony orchestra to be presented by Carnegie Hall in the venue’s 130-year history. Susan Feder, program officer for arts and culture with the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, stated, ‘We hope that this increased exposure will draw deserved attention to this remarkable organization and its talented artists, as well as honoring the memory of [Gateways’ Music Director] Michael Morgan, whose unparalleled dedication to Gateways brought it to this transformational moment.’ … Founded in 1993 by concert pianist and retired Eastman School of Music associate professor Armenta Hummings Dumisani, Gateways comprises 125 musicians who perform at concert halls and community venues to enlighten and inspire local communities.”
Change font size
