WETA Arts February 2025
Tour the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s new exhibit, “In Slavery’s Wake”, which focuses on the worldwide impact of European slavery and colonialism. Next, enjoy host Felicia Curry’s visit to the home of mezzo-soprano opera superstar Denyce Graves. Finally, meet Silver Spring pianist Brian Ganz, who is on a quest to perform every single work composed by Frederick Chopin.

In Slavery’s Wake
The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture hosts In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World through June 8, 2025. The exhibition features work by artists Nyugen Smith and Daniel Minter, as well as rare objects such as the first flag of the Republic of Haiti, and objects from around the world. The museum is free, open 7 days a week, and requires timed tickets.

Brian Ganz
Extreme Chopin, a concert series to perform all of Polish composer Frédéric Chopin's works, was the brainchild of the National Philharmonic's music director Piotr Gajewski. In the Feb 28, 2025 performance, the 14th of 15, Brian Ganz is joined by pianist Alon Goldstein and flutist Julietta Curenton. The annual concert, at The Music Center at Strathmore, is timed to coincide as closely as possible with Chopin's birthday, which is March 1.

Denyce Graves
World-renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves directs the world premiere of Loving v. Virginia with the Virginia Opera and the Richmond Symphony. Composed by Damien Geter with libretto by Jessica Murphy Moo, the production, which opens on April 25, 2025, features soprano Flora Hawk as Mildred Jeter Loving and baritone Jonathan Michie as Richard Loving. Graves performs the role of Maria in Porgy and Bess at the Kennedy Center starting May 23, 2025. The Denyce Graves Foundation promotes equity and inclusion in American classical vocal arts.
Previews + Extras
Preview: WETA Arts February 2025
S12 E5 - 30s
Tour the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s new exhibit, “In Slavery’s Wake”, which focuses on the worldwide impact of European slavery and colonialism. Next, enjoy host Felicia Curry’s visit to the home of mezzo-soprano opera superstar Denyce Graves. Finally, meet Silver Spring pianist Brian Ganz, who is on a quest to perform every single work composed by Frederick Chopin.
"In Slavery’s Wake" is a Groundbreaking New Exhibit at the Smithsonian NMAAHC
S12 E5 - 8m 4s
Join WETA Arts host Felicia Curry as she explores "In Slavery’s Wake: Making Black Freedom in the World," a groundbreaking new exhibition at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. This powerful exhibit explores the lasting impact of slavery and the ways in which Black communities around the world have fought for freedom, resilience, and self-determination.
Meet the Man on a Journey to Perfect Frédéric Chopin's Music
S12 E5 - 9m 42s
As part of the "Extreme Chopin" series at the Music Center at Strathmore, pianist Brian Ganz is on a journey to perform Frédéric Chopin's complete works—sharing the beauty, mystery, and emotional depth of the composer’s music. In this interview with WETA Arts host Felicia Curry, Ganz reflects on his lifelong connection to Chopin.
Denyce Graves: From DC Roots to Opera Icon
S12 E5 - 9m 7s
Internationally acclaimed mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves has graced the world’s greatest opera stages—but her journey began in Washington, D.C. WETA Arts host Felicia Curry sits down with Graves at her Maryland farm to discuss her path from gospel singing in Ward 8 to international stardom, the mentors who shaped her, and her mission to elevate hidden voices through the Denyce Graves Foundation.
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