Montreal-born pianist Ric’key Pageot brings exceptional credentials to Classic Black, a new educational platform and documentary supported through Arterial’s fiscal sponsorship. As a Steinway Artist and Madonna’s touring pianist for over a decade, Pageot has performed on four world tours including Sticky & Sweet, MDNA, Rebel Heart, and Madame X. His classical training began at Montreal’s Pierre-Laporte School, where he mastered advanced music theory and performed with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra under Charles Dutoit.
From World Tours to Music Education
Pageot’s professional journey spans remarkable collaborations with Earth Wind & Fire, Diana Ross, and Cher. He served as the youngest musical director ever hired by Cirque Du Soleil for their show “Delirium,” which Billboard Magazine certified as the 6th biggest grossing tour in North America in 2006. His expertise extends beyond classical music – he leads Parlor Social, performing at prestigious venues including the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Hollywood Bowl. This breadth of experience informs his approach to Classical Black’s educational mission.
A New Platform for Classical Music History
Through Classic Black, Pageot introduces audiences to influential composers like Joseph Boulogne (Chevalier de St-Georges) and George Bridgetower. The program highlights composers who achieved significant recognition despite historical challenges. Boulogne, praised by President John Adams as “the most accomplished man in Europe,” exemplifies the caliber of artists featured in the program. Other celebrated composers include Thomas “Blind Tom” Wiggins, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Florence B Price, William Grant Still, and George Walker.
“Classic Black represents exactly what Arterial stands for – supporting vital art-centric stories that need to be told. Ric’key Pageot’s world-class musicianship combined with his passion for education makes this program transformative.”
Scott Power — founder of Arterial.org
Arterial Funds New Media Series
Through Arterial’s fiscal sponsorship, Classic Black launched two media series in 2024:
- “Classic Black: The Video” documents Steinway Artist Ric’key Pageot’s performances and personal narrative. Each episode features his piano performances alongside historical context about black classical composers.
- “Classic Black: The Podcast” expands on these themes through focused discussions about black composers’ contributions to classical music. Episodes connect historical works to contemporary classical music education.
Both series are produced with support from Arterial’s funding initiative, which allocates 80% of donations directly to programming. This funding structure enables Classic Black to create professional-quality content while maintaining free access for educational institutions.
Educational Impact Through Performance
The program combines Pageot’s live performances with educational presentations designed for schools, organizations, and community venues. Each session features historical works performed on piano, accompanied by detailed context about the composers and their contributions to classical music. This format makes classical music accessible while preserving its historical significance. Through Arterial’s sponsorship, Classic Black offers these educational programs to institutions nationwide, expanding access to this important musical heritage.
Get Involved
Visit classicblackmusic.org to explore the program, watch performances, and listen to the podcast series. Schools, organizations, and communities interested in hosting Classic Black can reach out through the website to arrange educational presentations and live performances. The program is available for tax-deductible donations through Arterial’s fiscal sponsorship, supporting this vital mission to celebrate and preserve black excellence in classical music.
