Today is Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the US. Contrary to some misconceptions, the June 19 holiday does not mark the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, which was issued on January 1, 1863. In fact, the holiday marks a more somber occasion: the date in 1865 when Union soldiers brought news of their victory — and …

In troubled times, music is a source of hope and healing. In a virtual interview and concert with WFMT’s George Preston, pianist Lara Downes performs selections from her new album, Some of These Days.

Though African Americans have not historically enjoyed the same rights and privileges as others, their contributions of music have been nothing short of history-changing. Here are 19 composers to help you celebrate Juneteenth, and which in turn deserve to be celebrated.

Florence Price, Margaret Bonds, Irene Britton Smith, Nora Holt, and countless other women of color contributed to the Chicago Black Renaissance and changed classical music around the world.