Samuel Coleridge-Taylor was a prominent Black composer and conductor who lived from 1875 to 1912. He was born in London to a Sierra Leonean father and an English mother. Coleridge-Taylor was a prodigy who began studying music at a young age and went on to become one of the most celebrated classical composers of his time.

His most famous work is the cantata "Hiawatha's Wedding Feast," inspired by the poem "The Song of Hiawatha" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The piece was hugely successful and brought Coleridge-Taylor widespread acclaim. He continued to compose a wide range of music, including orchestral works, chamber music, and songs.

Coleridge-Taylor faced significant challenges due to the racial prejudices of his time, but he was a trailblazer for Black composers and musicians. He was a prominent figure in the British music scene and used his platform to advocate for racial equality and social justice.

Today, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor is recognized as an important figure in Black history and continues to be celebrated for his musical contributions.