Friday, February 11, 2011

'Extensions of the Tradition' at Indiana U. Feb. 20 Features organist Dr. Leo H. Davis Jr.

[Dr.Leo H. Davis Jr.]

“Indiana University's African American Arts Institute, in collaboration with the IU Jacobs School of Music and the Archives of African American Music and Culture, will present the annual 'Extensions of the Tradition' concert on Sunday, Feb. 20, at 7 p.m. at Auer Hall, 200 S. Jordan Ave.”

“The program, which is free and open to the public, will cover organ works that span from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. It will portray a diverse array of compositions influenced by Protestant hymnody, plain chant, orchestral works, African-tribal tunes and a host of other sources. Specific pieces include:

'Git On Board,' by Evelyn Simpson-Curenton, performed by Marietta Simpson, professor of voice in the IU Jacobs School of Music, and the African American Choral Ensemble conducted by Keith McCutchen

'Proclamations!' (for organ, brass, timpani and chorus), by guest conductor Darin Atwater

'Go Down Moses,' by Fela Sowande

“The name 'Extensions of the Tradition' refers to artistic expressions which are linked to a long history of African American composers. These composers speak in several 'musical tongues' which exist, as W.E.B. Dubois has stated, ' . . . in a double consciousness' of European and African-derived artistic traditions.

“This year's concert will feature renowned organist Dr. Leo H. Davis Jr., who serves as head of the expansive music department at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, Tenn.” “Otis Murphy, associate professor of music in the Jacobs School, also will perform."

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