Robert Nathaniel Dett (1882-1943) brought an African - American folk tunes into the classical music. It wasn't just an unusual, innovative and refreshing creative choice: it was his mission, and a true calling of his heart to do so. Today we are left with several beautiful piano works (and many choral works) celebrating the African-American musical heritage, but also deeply resonating in their listeners regardless of geographic or cultural background. And describing his music, we just described who Nathaniel Dett was - a poet, idealist, romantic - who was building bridges and seeking to connect with all humans, in times that were challenging this idea on every step of the way.