Throughout the early modern period and far into the nineteenth century, the voices of countless musicians of African descent were heard in both enslaved communities and elite cultural circles throughout  Europe and the Americas. The circumstances of their lives, too often within the context of extreme racism and brutal human trafficking, varied widely: some crossed paths with kings, popes, and presidents—either by patronage or parentage—and untold others joined voices in their suffering to find strength and praise their God.

The many, often glorious musical achievements of these individuals were long covered over by the writers of history, and only in the last few decades have some of these Black voices from earlier eras been uncovered and recognized. Enslaved, escaped, freed, or born free; uneducated, self-educated, or trained by the most prestigious mentors and institutions; priests, abolitionists, and child prodigies—such vastly different experiences brought forth extraordinary talent and creativity that had profound and lasting impact on global musical culture.  It is time now to celebrate them.

In this first-ever Early Music festival dedicated to exploring music by and for Black Africans and their descendants, we bring to you 6 live and 4 virtual concerts paired with preconcert discussions, 5 educational workshops, our 3rd BEMI Players youth performance, 1 very Happy Hour, and our 2nd BLEMF Community Showcase, where we invite Bloomington musicians to the stage.  

BLEMF 2025: Early Music in the African Diaspora bears witness to the skill, determination, passion, and faith of Black musicians of the Renaissance through the 19th century, all of which shine brilliantly through every performance—from sacred music to folk song, sonata to spiritual. Join us!