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Harmonizing Traditions: Darin Atwater's Journey Blending Classical & African American Music | Composer, Conductor, Soulful Symphony Founder

The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter
The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter
Episode • May 13, 2022 • 30m

Get ready for thought-provoking conversations on 'The Truth in This Art' podcast, with your host, Rob Lee, and today’s guest: Darin Atwater, a distinguished composer, conductor, pianist, and producer, embodies a prolific career that spans film, recording, radio, and television. As the visionary force behind Soulful Symphony, an orchestra ingeniously fusing classical and African American roots music, Atwater shapes cultural landscapes and fosters artistic unity. With over two decades of expertise, he stands as a cultural architect, captivating audiences and cultivating a distinctive artistic realm where music bridges divides and ignites a vibrant community.


In this feature, we unravel:


  • A melodic voyage tracing Darin Atwater's roots, from his early piano notes resonating in the church to his own compositions, unearthing the bedrock of his musical odyssey.
  • Delve into the resonant genesis of Soulful Symphony, a movement ignited to honor and revitalize African American heritage while challenging the entrenched Eurocentric contours of classical music, ushering a symphony of inclusivity.
  • Engage in an enriching conversation as Atwater unearths the essence of a thriving art community, unveiling the profound tapestry woven through human interaction, local heritage, and cultural narratives.
  • Explore the transformative power of communal art experiences with Atwater, who passionately advocates embracing shared encounters over passive consumption, sparking a discourse on redefining our relationship with the arts.
  • Peer into the creative alchemy of Darin Atwater's artistry, as he navigates the ever-evolving currents of contemporary music and cultural shifts, expertly interweaving present-day influences into his compositions, ensuring an enduring relevance that harmonizes past, present, and future.


This is a must-listen episode as Darin discusses his background in music and the inspiration behind the orchestra. He shares how his early experiences playing the piano in church and his love for classical music led him to create a symphony that celebrates African American music and culture. Atwater emphasizes the importance of preserving and honoring local artistic traditions and creating a sense of community through music. He also discusses his involvement in the upcoming Preakness event and the unique fusion of classical and contemporary music that Soulful Symphony brings to the stage.


Mentioned in this episode
Darin Atwater - Kennedy Center


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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

  • Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
  • Edited by Daniel Alexis
  • Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

  • Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
  • Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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