DUNCAN | ELLINGTON | SIMON | A Quincentennial Celebration
Artists
Artists
-
Oakland Choral SocietyChorus
-
Amber RogersSoprano
-
Joan BelgraveAlto -
Ronald PerkinsBaritone
About
We are excited to welcome an all-star cast featuring Detroit’s own Joan Belgrave, Resident Artist, Amber Rogers (soprano), and Baritone, Ronald Perkins.
Norah Duncan IV’s powerful cantata, JOURNEY: From Slavery to Freedom, is a work of humanistic importance that presents a fresh, exciting orchestral setting of nine traditional African American Spirituals. The musical essence is encapsulated by integrating choral traditions with blues, jazz, Afrobeats, and pop idioms, and by utilizing both traditional and indigenous instruments. This ambitious work for chorus, soloists, and orchestra vividly portrays the arduous journey of enslaved individuals to liberation, drawing upon the rich traditions of African American Spirituals and narratives of the Underground Railroad. It exemplifies contemporary American choral music, particularly works that explore themes of American cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this culturally significant musical work about history, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom. Experience this work again as a celebration of 250 years of America.
This work is featured alongside works Carlos Simon and Duke Ellington.
Program (subject to change):
CARLOS SIMON | Angels in Heaven
ELLINGTON | TBD
NORAH DUNCAN IV | JOURNEY: From Slavery to Freedom (ft. Oakland Choral Society & Detroit Choral Society)
