Role

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Composer

Birth

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July 18, 1972 in New York City, NY

 

Nkeiru Okoye is a Nigerian-American composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born in New York City in 1972, Okoye grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. Her parents, both Nigerian immigrants, instilled in her a love of music and a strong work ethic that would serve her well throughout her career. Okoye began her musical training at an early age, studying piano and voice as a child. She later attended the Manhattan School of Music, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in composition. She went on to earn a Master of Music degree in composition from Rutgers University and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in composition from the University of Maryland. Throughout her career, Okoye has been recognized for her innovative and thought-provoking compositions. Her works often explore themes of identity, culture, and social justice, and she draws inspiration from a wide range of musical traditions, including African, African-American, and Western classical music. One of Okoye's most notable works is her opera "Harriet Tubman: When I Crossed That Line to Freedom," which premiered in 2014. The opera tells the story of the legendary abolitionist and conductor of the Underground Railroad, and features a libretto by playwright and poet Henry Louis Gates Jr. The opera has been praised for its powerful music and its portrayal of Tubman as a complex and multifaceted figure. Another of Okoye's notable works is her oratorio "Voices Shouting Out," which premiered in 2018. The piece explores the experiences of African-American soldiers who fought in World War I, and features a libretto by poet and scholar Soyica Colbert. The oratorio has been praised for its moving and poignant music, as well as its exploration of an often-overlooked chapter in American history. In addition to her work as a composer, Okoye is also an educator and advocate for diversity in classical music. She has taught at a number of institutions, including the University of Maryland and the Manhattan School of Music, and has worked to promote the work of underrepresented composers and performers. Overall, Nkeiru Okoye is a composer whose work has made a significant impact on the world of classical music. Her innovative and thought-provoking compositions have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following, and her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the field has helped to make classical music more accessible and relevant to a wider audience.

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