Gateways Music Festival’s longstanding tradition of presenting exceptional pianists is rooted in the legacy of its founder, pianist Armenta Hummings Dumisani. Continuing that legacy, internationally renowned Steinway Artist Ric’key Pageot brings Classic Black to Gateways—a solo piano journey through three centuries of music by Black composers and the extraordinary artistry they have contributed to the classical tradition.

Through works by the Chevalier de Saint-Georges, William Grant Still, Howard Swanson, Robert Nathaniel Dett, George Walker, Fred Onovwerisuoke, Billy Strayhorn, and more, Pageot brings celebrated and lesser-known musical voices into one expansive conversation. From the elegance of Saint-Georges and the rhythmic vitality of Dett and Onovwerisuoke to the singular musical worlds of Walker, Still, Swanson, and Strayhorn, Classic Black reveals the depth, range, and continuing life of Black classical artistry. Pageot has performed the recital in London, Dubai, Tokyo, and Montreal, inviting audiences around the world to hear this remarkable body of music anew.

A Montreal-born pianist, accordionist, composer, producer, musical director, and Steinway Artist, Pageot began his career in classical music before becoming the youngest musical director ever hired by Cirque du Soleil. He has performed on four world tours with Madonna; toured with Diana Ross, Cher, and Dr. John; and written and recorded with Earth, Wind & Fire and Jill Scott.

Join Gateways for a powerful return to Pageot’s classical roots—and an evening that honors the artists who expanded the repertoire, transformed the tradition, and made new possibilities audible.