We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Dr. Tia Roper a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Dr. Tia , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

I’ve been so very fortunate to achieve many goals in my life. One that remained was to curate my musical art on my own terms with complete freedom. Rhapsody in Ebony is a passion project of mine and I’m so excited to cultivate it and see it thrive!
The word ‘rhapsody’, in musical terms, is a free instrumental composition in one extended movement, typically one that is emotional or exuberant in character. The word ‘ebony’ refers to the color black. Rhapsody in Ebony is the name of the Atlanta-based, classical music ensemble I launched. It is comprised of critically acclaimed, world-class musicians who are of the African diaspora. Rhapsody in Ebony puts a face to the under-represented black, classical performing artist by being not only visible, but stellar in our field.

Dr. Tia , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

We are looking forward to a full performance calendar in the months to come. Presenting works by composers from Mozart to Rachmaninoff is always a treat, and so too is featuring works by African- American and women composers. The musical landscape is so vast and there are so many innovative programs that we will be sharing with audiences in Atlanta and beyond.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the pathway that my ancestors have made. Those classical musicians of African descent who paved the way and were pioneers in the field: Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, Florence Price, William Grant Still. The list goes on and on – and because the list goes on and on, Rhapsody in Ebony exists to continue in that legacy.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Staying true to who we are – that means providing exceptional performances and playing every concert like it is a Carnegie Hall debut.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The best source of new clients has been enthralled and enamored audience members! Word of mouth and glowing recommendations are the leading element and influence for a flourishing business! We are grateful to each and every one of them!!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rhapsodyinebony.com
• Instagram: @RhapsodyinEbony
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhapsody.in.ebony
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RhapsodyinEbony
• Other: https://www.tiaroper.com

Image Credits

📸 Photography by: Heather LaShun
📸 Photography by: Becca McCoy