Thomas Wilkins, conductor
Symone Harcum, soloist
AMC250 Unity Chorale
Virginia Symphony Orchestra

In recognition of America’s 250th and the annual African Landing Commemoration at Fort Monroe, Principal Guest Conductor and Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins returns to lead the VSO and special guests in a jubilant celebration of the contributions of African American composers. Music for the concert stage by icons like William Grant Still, William Dawson, and Florence Price will be performed alongside music for sacred spaces by legends like Moses Hogan and Richard Smallwood. Celebrated soprano Symone Harcum and the AMC250 Unity Chorale will join the festivities to lend their radiant voices to unforgettable melodies that celebrate our nation’s rich musical heritage.

THIS IS A FREE GENERAL ADMISSION CONCERT OPEN TO ALL, AND REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.

Presented by the American Music Collective (AMC250) and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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PROGRAM:

John Stafford Smith/Haywood Star-Spangled Banner
James Lee III Fanfare for Universal Hope
William Dawson Negro Folk Symphony 
Leslie Adams To The Road
Leslie Adams The Wider View
Florence Price “Finale” from Symphony No. 1 in E minor
William Grant Still Citadel
Adolphus Hailstork “My Name is Toil” from Done Made My Vow
— intermission —
J. Rosamond Johnson / Carter Lift Every Voice and Sing
Traditional/ Hogan I Want Jesus to Walk with Me.
William Dawson Ezekiel Saw de Wheel
Richard Smallwood / Keith Total Praise
Edward K. “Duke” Ellington Harlem
James P. Johnson / Hersh “Victory Stride”

*Program subject to change.

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