Bennington College’s pioneering Black Music Division, established in 1974, is experiencing a renewed focus, with celebrations of its legacy continuing into . The division, an early example of Black music being integrated into academic study, was the vision of avant-garde musician and professor Bill Dixon, alongside fellow musician and professor Milford Graves.
The history and impact of the Black Music Division were recently discussed on Vermont Public’s “Vermont Edition” with percussionist, composer, and current Bennington College professor Michael Wimberly. Wimberly, who has performed with artists ranging from George Clinton and the Parliament Funkedelic to Dionne Warwick, organized a two-day symposium last year to commemorate the division’s 50th anniversary. The symposium featured live music and reflections on the division’s significance.
Wimberly’s own musical background, rooted in the soul, funk, rock, jazz, and classical music of his native Cleveland, Ohio, reflects the diverse influences that the Black Music Division sought to explore. His studies at Baldwin Wallace University and the Manhattan School of Music broadened his palette to include West African rhythms, electronic music, and improvisation, ultimately shaping his approach to music of the African Diaspora.
The Black Music Division’s founding was a particularly innovative move at the time, establishing a dedicated space for the study of Black music within a higher education setting. Wimberly’s work continues this tradition, with his courses including “Black Music: Black Music Division (a 50 year retrospective).”
Bennington College is further amplifying its commitment to diverse musical voices through the Carriage Barn Music Series. Both in Spring 2026 and Fall 2026, the series will feature performances and research highlighting the music and lives of Black, Indigenous, people of color, queer, female-identified, and non-binary performers, and artists. These events are free and open to the public.
Beyond the Black Music Division’s anniversary, Bennington College is hosting a range of events this spring. The Poetry at Bennington series will feature residencies by contemporary poets, while the Writers Reading Series will showcase acclaimed authors from the Bennington Writing Seminars during its winter 2026 residency.
The college’s commitment to the arts extends beyond music and literature. The Carriage Barn Music Series, in addition to its focus on diverse performers, will also support the current curriculum of the Music discipline. This holistic approach underscores Bennington’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive artistic community.
Vermont Public’s “Vermont Edition” also featured a conversation with Myra Flynn about a special broadcast series called Homegoings. The show highlighted an upcoming live event on featuring a conversation with Bobby Hackney Sr. And Bobby Hackney Jr.
The legacy of Bill Dixon and Milford Graves continues to resonate at Bennington College, shaping not only the curriculum but also the broader artistic landscape of the region. The ongoing events and discussions surrounding the Black Music Division demonstrate a sustained commitment to celebrating and studying the rich history and enduring influence of Black music.
Listeners can tune into “Vermont Edition” live on weekdays at noon, with a rebroadcast at 7 p.m. The show encourages audience participation through call-ins at 1-800-639-2211, email submissions, and engagement on Vermont Public’s Instagram account.
