The Hartford Symphony Orchestra (HSO) is proud to announce acclaimed American pianist Clayton Stephenson as the 2024-2025 Joyce C. Willis Artist in Residence. This prestigious residency is underwritten by the Roberts Foundation for the Arts and honors the legacy of Joyce C. Willis, a dedicated supporter of the arts and former board member of the HSO.
The Joyce C. Willis Fund for Excellence and Equity in the Arts, established by The Roberts Foundation in late 2020, aims to support Black artists and enhance diversity within the arts community. In addition to the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, Hartford Stage and the Amistad Center also received grants from this visionary initiative. Named in memory of Joyce C. Willis—who played a pivotal role in Hartford’s cultural scene and was instrumental in supporting organizations like the HSO—this fund reflects her enduring commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement.
“The Joyce C. Willis Fund not only serves as a catalyst to help Black artists excel in their careers, but as a way to encourage other organizations to examine their efforts to promote racial equity in the arts,” says Lisa M. Curran, executive director of The Roberts Foundation. “We hope this initiative is the first step in encouraging local nonprofits embrace cultural change and increase their investment in artists of color.”
Clayton Stephenson, celebrated for his “extraordinary narrative and poetic gifts” (Gramophone), brings a dynamic and expressive artistry to the piano. His performances are noted for their freshness, incisive character, and emotional depth. Stephenson is a Juilliard alumnus and graduate of the Harvard-New England Conservatory (NEC) dual degree program. He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard and a master’s degree in piano performance from NEC. Stephenson has been recognized for his exceptional talent with numerous accolades, including being the first Black finalist at the 2022 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, a 2022 Gilmore Young Artist, and a 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, the 2024 Avery Fisher Career Grant, and most recently the prestigious 2025 Sphinx Medal of Excellence.
“We are thrilled to welcome Clayton Stephenson as our third Joyce C. Willis Artist in Residence,” said Steve Collins, President & CEO of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra. “Clayton’s extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft make him a perfect fit for this role. His residency aligns with our mission to support and elevate diverse voices in the arts, and we look forward to the impact his artistry will bring to our community.”
Stephenson’s residency will include a series of performances and masterclasses, offering audiences and students alike the opportunity to experience his remarkable artistry. Highlights of his career include performances with the Calgary Philharmonic, Chicago Sinfonietta, and the Fort Worth, Louisville, Lansing, and North Carolina Symphony Orchestras, as well as recitals at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC, and the Foundation Louis Vuitton Auditorium in Paris.
Clayton joins the HSO as the third recipient of the Joyce C. Willis Artist in Residence position. Previous recipients include composer Quinn Mason and violinist Melissa White. Hartford Stage and The Amistad Center for Art & Culture had previously named Christopher D. Betts and Merick Goma respectively, both of whom have recently concluded their two-year artistic residencies.
About The Roberts Foundation
The Roberts Foundation for the Arts is a private, special purpose foundation founded in 1964 by Ned and Sunny Roberts. In accordance with its founders’ wishes, the foundation is dedicated to supporting and encouraging excellence in the arts throughout the Capital Region. Since its establishment, the foundation has awarded nearly $12 million to more than 190 area non-profit organizations.
More information is available at therobertsfoundation.org
About the Hartford Symphony Orchestra
The Hartford Symphony Orchestra is a leading cultural institution in Connecticut, renowned for its exceptional performances and commitment to artistic excellence. The HSO brings a diverse range of classical and contemporary music to audiences throughout the region, while also fostering community engagement through education and outreach programs. The orchestra’s mission is to enrich lives through the power of music and to serve as a vibrant cultural resource for the Hartford community and beyond.