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Music

Composers

What black composer was the first of his race to conduct the New York Philharmonic?

In 1941 Dean Charles Dixon (1915–1976) was the first black to conduct the New York Philharmonic and was possibly the first black American recognized as a symphonic conductor of international stature. He was the first to hold permanent positions for long periods with symphony orchestras and toured worldwide as a guest conductor. Born in New York City, Dixon was educated at Julliard School of Music and Columbia University Teachers College. In 1949 he settled in Europe, where he remained until 1970.