Renowned for her virtuosity and commitment to classical music, violinist Njioma Chinyere Grevious is not only making waves in the world of orchestral and chamber music but also advocating for greater diversity within the genre.
Recently awarded the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant, Grevious, a Juilliard School graduate, is a trailblazer in her field, dedicated to inspiring young African Americans to engage with classical music.
In a candid interview with ShineMyCrown, Grevious shared her insights on bridging the gap between classical music and younger, more diverse audiences, particularly within African American communities.
“Already, so many organizations and presenters are trying to attract younger and more diverse audiences through programming and unique collaborations,” she shared during the exclusive interview.
Grevious highlighted the importance of representation, noting that seeing black artists in prominent roles can inspire others to explore classical music.
Currently, it’s not uncommon for Alicia Keys or Kendrick Lamar to perform alongside a symphony orchestra, yet African Americans generally aren’t performing in those orchestras themselves.
According to a recent study, less than 2% of musicians in American orchestras are African Americans. The 2014 study by the League of American Orchestras found that only 4.3% of conductors are black, and composers remain predominantly white as well, but still Grevious remains hopeful about the prospects of more African-Americans like herself bringing their talents to classical music.
“Through organizations like Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, where I’m honored to perform, I aim to serve as a role model for aspiring musicians,” Grevious added.
She also stressed the crucial role of outreach programs and initiatives like the Orpheus Social Club, which integrates social opportunities with concert attendance to engage young adults, to attracting more Blacks to orchestras.
Looking ahead, Grevious shared her vision for the future:
“I see myself performing globally as a soloist, chamber, and orchestral musician, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the incredible Orpheus Chamber Orchestra.”
Her aspirations extend beyond performance, as she seeks to nurture a new generation of musicians and enrich the cultural landscape through her artistry.
The fast-rising star’s journey has been marked by numerous accolades, including winning the Grand Prize at the Concert Artist Guild (CAG) Elmaleh Competition and the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant.
As a soloist, she has captivated audiences with the Minnesota Orchestra, Chicago Philharmonic, and other renowned ensembles, showcasing her extraordinary talent and passion for classical music.
With her commitment to excellence and advocacy for diversity, Njioma Grevious continues to inspire and pave the way for future generations of African American musicians in the classical realm.
For more information on Njioma Grevious and her upcoming performances, visit her official website or follow her on social media.
