Samora Pinderhughes is a distinguished composer, pianist, vocalist, and filmmaker renowned for his multidisciplinary approach to music and his commitment to addressing sociopolitical issues through art. Born in Berkeley, California, he began his musical journey at the age of two, studying Venezuelan and Cuban percussion. His passion for composition emerged during his time with the Young Musicians Choral Orchestra (YMP), where he graduated in 2009. Pinderhughes furthered his education at The Juilliard School, earning his degree in Jazz Piano in 2013 under the mentorship of esteemed musicians such as Kenny Barron and Kendall Briggs.

Throughout his career, Pinderhughes has collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including Herbie Hancock, Common, and Branford Marsalis. His performances have graced prestigious venues worldwide, such as Carnegie Hall, the White House, and the Kennedy Center. Notably, his project "The Transformations Suite" combines music, theater, and poetry to explore the history of resistance within the African diaspora. His 2022 album "GRIEF" was acclaimed by The New York Times as one of the top ten Best Jazz albums of the year.

Pinderhughes is also recognized for his activism, particularly in prison abolition and social justice. He is the first-ever Art for Justice + Soros Justice Fellow, supporting his project "The Healing Project," which examines the experiences of incarcerated individuals and their communities. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. at Harvard University, focusing on the role of art in social movements.

For more information, visit his official website: samorapinderhughes.com