Harry Lawrence Freeman

Full biography Harry Lawrence Freeman

Harry Lawrence Freeman (1869-1954) was an American neoromantic opera composer , conductor, impresario, and teacher. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and showed an early interest in music, teaching himself to play the piano and violin. He later studied at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and the Boston Conservatory of Music.

Freeman composed at least 23 operas , including "The Octoroon," which was the first opera composed by an African-American to be produced in the United States. He was also the first Black composer to conduct his own works with a symphony orchestra , and the first to compose a substantial body of symphonic music. Some of his other notable compositions include "Epiphany," "The Martyr," and "The Pearl of Iran."

Freeman was not only a composer, but also a performer, musical critic, essayist, advocate, and teacher. While in Cleveland, he co-founded the Clef Club, which was a social and professional organization for African-American musicians. He also founded the Negro Grand Opera Company, which was the first opera company owned and operated by African-Americans.

Freeman's work helped to pave the way for future African-American opera composers, and his contribution to American classical music is significant. He infused his music with elements of African-American folk music and spirituals, creating a distinctive sound that was all his own.

Despite facing significant challenges and discrimination throughout his career, Freeman continued to compose and perform until his death in 1954. His legacy lives on, and he remains an important figure in the history of American classical music.