In honor of Black History Month, Atwood Magazine has invited artists to participate in a series of essays reflecting on identity, music, culture, inclusion, and more.

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Today, Grammy-nominated baritone Joshua Conyers, a faculty member at the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music, shares his personal journey and the inspiration behind his debut album, ‘A Miracle in Legacy’ – a powerful testament to resilience, Black excellence, and the enduring impact of music – as part of Atwood Magazine’s Black History Month series.

Praised by The New York Times for his “sonorous, seducing baritone,” Conyers brings a wealth of experience to his role as Assistant Professor of Voice at the Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester. With performances at The Metropolitan Opera, Seattle Opera, and the New York Philharmonic, he is recognized as one of today’s leading dramatic voices. Recently, he starred in Morgiane at Lincoln Center, the oldest surviving opera by a Black American. His recordings include 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 the stage, Conyers serves on the Young Professionals Advisory Board of the Newark Boys Chorus School, where he mentors underserved young men of color. At Eastman, he encourages the next generation of musicians to bring “their whole selves” to the operatic arts, ensuring that students from all backgrounds can access opera and classical music, no matter where they come from.

Joshua Conyers’ debut album, ‘A Miracle in Legacy,’ released on August 2, 2024, stands as a profound testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of music. Collaborating with pianist Chelsea Whitaker, Conyers crafts an auditory journey that traverses the tumultuous landscapes of his early life, marked by poverty, addiction, and violence, culminating in his emergence as a devoted father, husband, performer, and educator. This album not only narrates his personal odyssey but also serves as a vibrant celebration of Black creators, musicians, and their indelible contributions to the arts.

An inspiration through both his art and his actions, Joshua Conyers sets a strong example for us all. Read his essay below, and listen to ‘A Miracle in Legacy’ wherever you stream music!

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A MIRACLE IN LEGACY

The Transformative Power of Black Artistry

by Joshua Conyers

A Journey from Darkness to Light

Born in the Bronx, New York, my early years were overshadowed by the challenges of homelessness and familial struggles with addiction. My family sought refuge in shelters, and the instability of my environment posed significant obstacles to my personal and academic development. Despite these hardships, I discovered a sanctuary in music. Participating in talent shows during summer camps and forming a boy band with friends, I found solace and purpose in singing. A pivotal moment arrived when a friend introduced me to the Virginia Governor’s School for the Arts, where my passion for opera was ignited, setting me on a path toward artistic excellence.

Musical Composition and Collaborations

A Miracle in Legacy is a rich tapestry of compositions by esteemed artists such as Shawn E. Okpebholo and Carlos Simon. The album also features a commissioned piece by Emmy Award-winning composer Jasmine Arielle Barnes, with poetry by Deborah Mouton. These collaborations infuse the album with a diverse range of musical expressions, reflecting the multifaceted experiences of Black life in America. The inclusion of African American spirituals by renowned composers Margaret Bonds and Hall Johnson further anchors the album in the rich traditions of Black musical heritage.

Celebration of Black Excellence

Central to the album’s ethos is the celebration of Black excellence. I honor the legacy of Black creators and musicians, weaving their influences throughout the album’s narrative. This homage is not merely a reflection on past achievements but a vibrant acknowledgment of the ongoing contributions of Black artists to the cultural tapestry. By integrating elements of Black culture and music into the classical genre, I challenge traditional boundaries, creating a work that is both innovative and deeply rooted in heritage.

A Testament to Resilience and Transformation

A Miracle in Legacy transcends the realm of music; it is a narrative of survival, transformation, and hope. My journey from the shadows of my upbringing to the illumination of my current success embodies the potential for change and growth inherent in the human spirit. As I say, the album is “a symphony of survival, a sonnet of strength, and a testament to the boundless potential of the human soul.”

In essence, A Miracle in Legacy is a compelling chronicle of personal triumph and a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy of Black artistry. Through this album, I not only share my story, but also amplify the voices of those who have paved the way, offering a resonant message of resilience, excellence, and hope. – Joshua Conyers

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an album by Joshua Conyers