In this episode of Black Music Seen, we spotlight the next generation of leadership in Black classical music.

Hosted by Brittney Bryanna Burgess — Executive Director of Black Collegiate Musicians — this conversation features Shania Watts (violist at The Juilliard School and President of the Juilliard Black Student Union) and Wynter McCray (double bassist at Juilliard and Vice President of the Juilliard Black Student Union).

Recorded live at OPERA America, this dialogue centers on mentorship, self-advocacy, and the importance of building a life in classical music that extends beyond the practice room. From learning how to say no, to asking questions without fear, to imagining a more diverse and sustainable future for the concert hall, this episode reflects on what it means to lead with intention.

Black Collegiate Musicians works to connect and uplift Black music students nationwide, serving as a network of support, advocacy, and community.

This episode continues our commitment to preserving the lived stories of Black classical music — from those who carried the culture to those shaping what comes next.