Daily Joy
Portrait of a Poet

Flutist Anika Veda, clarinetist Alex Laing, and pianist Peter Dugan perform excerpts from Valerie Coleman’s Portraits of Langston.

This intimate piece is based on the poems of Langston Hughes and his experiences in Paris and Harlem. The full six movement work is often performed with a narrator reading selected poems.

This performance appears on our newly released album, From the Top 25, available now on all major streaming platforms. Learn more here.

If you’re having trouble viewing the video, try this link.

About

“By highlighting the creativity and passion of young people, Daily Joy offers real hope for the future and reminds us that great art is still being made all around the country.”

PETER DUGAN, HOST OF NPR’S FROM THE TOP

Music has the unique ability to bring joy to our lives – especially in the hands of young people. Daily Joy is a reminder of music’s power to uplift, inspire, and unite.

Daily Joy is a project of From the Top. It began in the very early days of the Covid-19 pandemic and continues today to offer a much-needed respite from the anxiety and worry that we encounter in the world.

From the Top is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating the stories and artistry of young musicians through media and leadership programs. Learn more.

From the Top is grateful to the Richard K. Lubin Family Foundation for their generous support of Daily Joy.

Have questions? Email us at info@fromthetop.org.

Support

HELP US SPREAD JOY!

We started Daily Joy as a reminder that music has the power to lift our spirits and make us smile.

We need your help to keep the joy coming! Make a tax-deductible donation today to support our work and help us spread joy!

Daily Joy is a program of From the Top, an independent non-profit organization that relies on support from individuals. Your support will help ensure From the Top's work of celebrating the joy, talents, and stories of extraordinary young musicians.

Text This Video To A Friend

Want to share the joy? Fill out the form below to text this video to a friend.

Note: We recommend including a personal message so the recipient knows it’s from you.