This lecture introduces African pianism, a classical piano tradition that adapts African rhythms, instruments, melodies, and performance techniques for the piano. It traces the genre’s missionary-era origins, bicultural development, key composers, analytical features, and performance demands, arguing for African classical piano music’s wider recognition within the global classical canon.

This talk explores African pianism, a fusion of African musical traditions and Western classical piano. Tracing its origins and development, it highlights its cultural significance and growing presence in the United States. The research argues that institutional contexts shape its reception and advocates for its inclusion to diversify and enrich classical music.