NATHANIEL DETT CHORALE - An Indigo Christmas… Kwanzaa Litanies December 18, 2010

The first two-night performance sets the tone for the entire season, with highlights that include Margaret Allison Bonds’ The Ballad of the Brown King, a large-scale work set to text by poet Langston Hughes. An epic work in nine movements, this piece combines elements of various black musical traditions, such as jazz, blues, calypso, and spirituals to tell the story of the Three Wise Men, focusing primarily on Balthazar, the so-called "brown king". The focal point of the evening will be the seven movements of the Nguzo Saba Suite, by Glenn Burleigh, a moving vocal exploration of the seven principles of Kwanzaa; as well as a presentation of A Kwanzaa Litany by Adolphus Hailstork.

Subtitled ‘LITANIES’, this is the first in a 3-part Glenn Gould Studio series which explores the notation of supplication, of honour and respect, hope, light and thanks-giving. The musical selections have the power to uplift, connect, heal and create a spirit of unity and well being. It is an affectionate nod to Mother Africa, her strength, her history, and her people.

Over the past decade The Nathaniel Dett Chorale has solidified its well earned reputation as the leading professional choir dedicated to the performance of Afrocentric music. They have crisscrossed North America to perform for everyone from aboriginal children to royalty and world leaders. Musically they are at the pinnacle of their career. Socially they offer comment and insight, a musical window into the roots of the African homeland and pay tribute to the many communities that form the vast African Diaspora. Concert-goers who have been lucky enough to witness the special magic this celebrated ensemble creates, know that the jubilation resonates long after the final notes have been sung. For those who have been uplifted and those who have yet to share the experience, the Chorale’s 2010/2011 Glenn Gould Studio concert season will certainly not disappoint!

Official Website: http://www.nathanieldettchorale.org