“I never listened to jazz until I went to college.” ⁣ ⁣ Professor emeritus George Walker, a classical composer and pianist, is honored with the 1996 @pulitzerprizes for music for his composition for voice and orchestra, “Lilacs,” based on a Walt Whitman poem. It is the first Pulitzer for @runewark and the first given to an African American for music. ⁣ ⁣ From 1969-1992, Walker was the Chairman of the Music Department. ⁣ ⁣ George Walker has composed over 90 works for orchestra, chamber orchestra, piano, strings, voice, organ, clarinet, guitar, brass, woodwinds, and chorus. His works have been performed by virtually every major orchestra in the United States and by many in England and other countries. ⁣ — Check back each week as we feature distinguished alumni, leaders, and other members of the Rutgers community throughout #BlackHistoryMonth. ⁣ #RutgersExcellence #RutgersPride #RURahRah