SU's Wright Leads 'Journey of African-American Song' February 24

SALISBURY, MD---Salisbury University’s celebration of African American History Month culminates with “The Journey of African-American Song: From Slavery to the Sanctuary,” 7:30 p.m. Saturday, February 24, in the Great Hall of Holloway Hall.

Audience participation is encouraged during the program, which blends history with live performance featuring tenor John Wesley Wright of SU’s Department of Music.  He performs with the SU Gospel Choir, Liturgical Dance Ensemble, World Percussion Ensemble and members of the SU Chorale and Chamber Choir.

“My goal is to facilitate this journey because it seems many people, especially young people, know the sanctuary, but not what came before and how the gospel music they sing evolved,” Wright said. “It is also my mission to educate people on the different styles and genres in the African-American music tradition.”

The program will feature calls and chants, work songs, different forms of spirituals, gospel quartets, civil rights songs and contemporary gospel and dance pieces.  Accompanists are Susan Zimmer and Aaron Hardin on the piano and Ted Nichols on African drums.  The event is repeated at Wor-Wic Community College 7 p.m. Monday, February 26.

Sponsored by SU’s Department of Music, the program is free and the public is invited.  Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be served at 7 p.m. prior to the concert.  For more information call 410-543-6386 or visit the SU Web site at www.salisbury.edu.