To celebrate Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to submit essays that explore themes of identity, music, culture, inclusion, and beyond.
Today, Grammy-nominated baritone Joshua Conyers, a faculty member at the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester, shares his personal story and the inspiration behind his debut album, ‘A Miracle in Legacy’—a compelling testament to resilience, Black excellence, and the lasting influence of music—contributing to Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series.
Lauded by The New York Times for his “sonorous, seductive baritone,” Conyers brings significant experience to his role as Assistant Professor of Voice at the Eastman School of Music. His impressive performances at renowned venues like The Metropolitan Opera, Seattle Opera, and the New York Philharmonic have established him as one of the leading dramatic voices of today. He recently featured in Morgiane at Lincoln Center, which is recognized as the oldest surviving opera by a Black American. His discography includes the Grammy-nominated ‘X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X,’ his debut solo album ‘A Miracle in Legacy,’ and ‘Bernstein, Gershwin, & Copland: Works.’
Beyond his performances, Conyers is active on the Young Professionals Advisory Board of the Newark Boys Chorus School, where he mentors young men of color from underserved backgrounds. At Eastman, he encourages aspiring musicians to embrace their full identities within the operatic arts, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds have access to opera and classical music, regardless of their origins.
Joshua Conyers’ debut album, ‘A Miracle in Legacy,’ which is set to release on August 2, 2024, serves as a profound reflection of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative nature of music. Partnering with pianist Chelsea Whitaker, Conyers creates an auditory experience that navigates the turbulent terrains of his childhood, which were fraught with poverty, addiction, and violence, leading to his evolution as a devoted father, husband, performer, and educator. The album reflects not only his own journey but also serves as a vibrant tribute to Black creators, musicians, and their lasting impact on the arts.
As a source of inspiration through both his artistic expression and his actions, Joshua Conyers exemplifies positive role modeling for all. Read his essay below and listen to ‘A Miracle in Legacy’ on your music streaming platform!
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The Transformative Power of Black Artistry
by Joshua Conyers
A Journey from Darkness to Light
Growing up in the Bronx, New York, my childhood was marked by the trials of homelessness and family struggles with addiction. My family often turned to shelters for refuge, and the instability in my life posed significant barriers to my personal and academic growth. Amid these challenges, I found solace in music. By participating in talent shows during summer camps and forming a boy band with friends, I discovered a sense of purpose in singing. A turning point came when a friend introduced me to the Virginia Governor's School for the Arts, where my passion for opera was sparked, guiding me toward artistic achievement.
Joshua Conyers
Musical Composition and Collaborations
A Miracle in Legacy is a rich collection of compositions by acclaimed artists such as Shawn E. Okpebholo and Carlos Simon. The album also includes a commissioned piece from Emmy Award-winning composer Jasmine Arielle Barnes, accompanied by poetry from Deborah Mouton. These collaborations enrich the album with a diverse array of musical expressions, reflecting the varied experiences of Black life in America. The inclusion of African American spirituals by celebrated composers Margaret Bonds and Hall Johnson further grounds the album in the deep traditions of Black musical heritage.
Celebration of Black Excellence
At the heart of the album is the celebration of Black excellence. I pay tribute to the legacy of Black creators and musicians, interweaving their influences throughout the album. This homage is not just a reflection on past achievements but also a vibrant acknowledgment of the continued contributions of Black artists to the cultural landscape. By incorporating elements of Black culture and music into the classical genre, I challenge conventional boundaries, crafting a work that is both innovative and deeply connected to heritage.
Joshua Conyers
A Testament to Resilience and Transformation
A Miracle in Legacy goes beyond mere music; it tells a story of survival, transformation, and hope. My path from the darkness of my upbringing to the brightness of my current achievements represents the capacity for change and growth inherent in the human spirit. As I describe it, the album is “a symphony of survival, a sonnet of strength, and a testament to the limitless potential of the human soul.”
Ultimately, A Miracle in Legacy is a powerful narrative of personal victory and a heartfelt tribute to the lasting legacy of Black artistry. Through this album, I aim not only to share my personal journey but also to amplify the voices of those who have forged the path before me, delivering a resonant message of resilience
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Grammy-nominated baritone Joshua Conyers, who teaches at the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester, discusses his personal journey and the motivation for his debut album, ‘A Miracle in Legacy.’ This album serves as a strong affirmation of resilience, Black excellence, and the lasting influence of music, and is featured in Atwood Magazine's Black History Month series.