Leah Claiborne, D.M.A., is a passionate advocate for diversity in the arts. She is dedicated to promoting piano music composed by Black artists through her performances, research, and teaching endeavors. Notably, Claiborne has received awards for her significant contributions to expanding the musical canon, particularly piano repertoire and pedagogy, to include and celebrate Black composers. As founder of Ebony Music Inc, a nonprofit organization, she actively promotes Black pianists and piano music by Black composers and has participated in partnerships aimed at exposing young pianists to more Black composers.
As the inaugural recipient of the Stecher and Horowitz Power of Innovation Award by the Music Teacher National Association, Claiborne was recently recognized for her artistic excellence, pedagogical leadership, nurturing spirit, and community service. She is also one of Yamaha’s 2023 “40 Under 40” most influential educators in America.
Dr. Leah Claiborne, piano