George T. Walker

Biography

George T. Walker channeled wide-ranging influences into an expansive compositional voice that blended jazz rhythms, African-American spirituals, and classical technique, culminating in works that earned him the distinction of being the first African American composer to receive the Pulitzer Prize in Music.

He generously shared his knowledge with students and community musicians, encouraging them to approach every performance with courage and curiosity, and his legacy of mentorship is honored near his resting place at Mulhearn Memorial Park Cemetery.