No one draws a wider circle musically than Salastina’s Composer Mentor Derrick Spiva Jr.

An American of Ghanaian, Nigerian, British, Irish, and Native American ancestry, Derrick champions an “American” aesthetic by incorporating many cultural influences into his work. His music celebrates the many diverse communities of which he is himself a part — if not, an admirer. The Los Angeles Times has described his music as “something to savor” and “enormous fun to listen to.”

Derrick passionately believes in music as a doorway into understanding other cultures and different ways of living. He is deeply invested in fostering creative and effective collaboration between artists of different disciplines and traditions.

Salastina’s first podcast features a discussion and complete performance of Derrick’s String Quartet, American Mirror. We can’t wait to continue our ever-evolving conversation with Derrick about American classical music and the culture around it. Join us for what’s sure to be a consoling, uplifting, and vibrant evening.