B H This Day in Black History

August 15

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August 15, 1925

Oscar Peterson Born

Born August 15, 1925, Oscar Peterson was a virtuoso pianist who recorded over 200 albums and won eight Grammy Awards. Known as the "Maharaja of the Keyboard," his dazzling technique and swing influenced generations of jazz musicians.

artsmusicafrican-diaspora
People: Oscar Peterson
Sources
1. Oscar Peterson - National Museum of African American History and Culture
August 15, 1969

Arthur Mitchell Founds Dance Theatre of Harlem

On August 15, 1969, Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem. Mitchell, the first African American principal dancer at the New York City Ballet, created the company in response to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.

arts
People: Arthur Mitchell
Sources
1. Dance Theatre of Harlem - The Kennedy Center

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