Description: (Composer who became the first black man to conduct a major orchestra)
William Grant Still Jr. was a notable American composer known for his diverse portfolio of compositions spanning symphonies, ballets, operas, choral works, chamber music, and solo pieces. A key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, Still was celebrated for being the first American composer to have an opera staged by the New York City Opera. His groundbreaking achievements include being the first African-American conductor of a major symphony orchestra and having his music performed on a national scale, making significant contributions to American classical music.