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DGF is focused on the intersection of social justice, American history, and the arts. Deeply inspired by the achievements of America’s hidden musical figures, the foundation is invested in doing research and educating the public about their remarkable stories of courage and persistence. From enriching our musical heritage to preparing the diverse pool of tomorrow’s vocal stars, DGF will positively impact how artists are valued in this nation, encouraging inclusive opportunity, access, and advocacy for the next generation.

OUR PURPOSE AND VISION
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JUNE 20, 2025
7:30 PM EST
National Presbyterian Church
Ode to Freedom, Ode to Joy
Ode to Freedom, Ode to Joy is a powerful concert that intertwines the timeless message of Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 with the spirit of Black empowerment and joy. Performed by New Orchestra of Washington, Washington Douglass Chorale and soloists from Denyce Graves Foundation, this program breathes new life into Beethoven’s iconic work, resonating deeply with the themes of freedom and unity.
JUNE 22, 2025
3:00 PM EST
St. John Baptist Church
A Juneteenth Concert
The Howard County Center of African American Culture & DGF present A Juneteenth Concert, celebrating African American Composers and Performers. Dinner Reception by HCA Catering. Entertainment by Grammy-winning percussionist Moziah Saleem.
EVENTS


HIDDEN VOICES SPOTLIGHT
Aubrey Pankey
Aubrey Pankey’s story remains a notable example of the difficulties faced by mid-century artists of color who decided to live outside the country rather than face the continued racism within the United States. Born in Pittsburgh, he made his reputation through his interpretation of Lieder; performing primarily in recitals and concerts. He began his career in Boston and New York, then moved to Europe where he continued to study and perform. He spent much of the 1920s and 1930s in Europe, particularly Germany, facing opposition from the Nazi Party who claimed he (and other “American Negroes”) were stealing jobs from German singers. He was ultimately kicked out of Germany and Italy, and moved to Paris until his return to the United States in 1939. He spent the 1940s in the US and toured South America several times. He moved to Paris in 1948 but was ejected after openly speaking against the convictions of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg. Lacking options, he immigrated to the German Democratic Republic where he performed and was rumored to have served as a state agent (most probably as a propaganda tool, although he resisted being used in that way). He died in a car crash in 1971.

OUR STORY
DGF is rooted in the belief that now is the time to increase our nation’s commitment to its artists, both past and present—for America’s future and for the whole world. In paying homage to the achievements of so many who have gone before while serving the real needs of today’s emerging artist singers, The Denyce Graves Foundation is giving back and paying it forward at the same time.

OUR MUSIC CONSERVATORY PARTNERS
The Denyce Graves Foundation is proud to partner with the following Music Conservatories for the 2022 - 2023 Shared Voices program. Click on each institution's logo to learn more.

1050 Connecticut Ave NW, Ste. 500
Washington, DC 20036
1325 Avenue of the Americas, 28th Floor
NYC, NY 10019
917-821-3437
Our Federal tax ID is 86-2276658.
The Denyce Graves Foundation is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.
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IN THE NEWS
Denyce Graves-Montgomery to Receive Service to America Leadership Award
World-renowned opera star Denyce Graves-Montgomery will receive the 2025 Service to America Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) for her philanthropic efforts and dedication to supporting the next generation of vocal artists and musicians. The award will be presented during the Celebration of Service to America Awards ceremony on June 10, 2025, at The Anthem in Washington, D.C.
The Denyce Graves Foundation Recognized by the American Academy of Teachers of Singing
The American Academy of Teachers of Singing is pleased to recognize The Denyce Graves Foundation (DGF) with an AATS Award for Inclusion, Mentorship and Inspiration “in recognition of the impact this organization is having on the lives of young singers who have been traditionally underserved by the educational branch of the musical arts.”
Second Year of Shared Voices Partnership Brings New Cohort of Aspiring Singers to the Met on February 28
The Metropolitan Opera continues its partnership with the Denyce Graves Foundation’s Shared Voices program, the student-exchange initiative that brings together elite historically Black colleges and universities and America’s preeminent conservatories and institutions, for a second year. On Friday, February 28, a new cohort of 18 students will participate in an immersive day-long program at the Met.

OUR HBCU PARTNERS
The Denyce Graves Foundation is proud to partner with the following Historically Black Colleges and Universities for the 2022 - 2023 Shared Voices program. Click on each institution's logo to learn more.