UM Music Department Presents Black History Month Concert

As part of the University of Mississippi’s observance of Black History Month, the Department of Music presents its annual concert Feb. 26.

The event begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Admission is free.

J. Ryan Breeland, program coordinator, said, “The department of music does a Black History Month concert every February, led by the Ole Miss African Drum and Dance Ensemble and featuring a variety of musical ensembles and guest performers.”

Breeland said, “Our repertoire features Ghanaian dances and compositions by William Grant Still, Ayatey Shabazz, William Owens, Michael Ndow, Robert Sheldon, Len ‘Boogie’ Sharpe, Rafael De Leon, et al, John Rosamond Johnson, Daniel Kelley, Mary Lou Williams and Oliver Nelson.”

Featured ensembles include the Ole Miss African Drum and Dance Ensemble, directed by George Dor; the UM Steel Orchestra and World Percussion Ensemble, directed by Ricky Burkhead; the Mississippians Jazz Ensemble, directed by Michael Worthy; and the UM Concert Band, directed by Randy Dale.

Guest artists scheduled are Johnny Lane, renowned percussionist and UM professor emeritus; Samuel K. Elikem Nyamuame, co-director of Binghamton University’s African Music and Dance Ensemble; and Damein Wash, vocalist and UM alumnus. Music student soloists are George Money, vibraphone; Christopher Scott, saxophone; Kashaun Wortham, violoncello; Brandon Collins, clarinet; and Jasmaine Wilbert, lead voice.

A UM wind quintet will also perform. Members include Donnie McGee, flute; Pamela Ponce, oboe; Kim Cassisa, clarinet; Traces Brooks, horn; and Madison Lorenzo, bassoon. Accompanists are Gordon Jason and Stacy Rodgers.

For more information, contact George Dor at 662-915-7269 or gwkdor@olemiss.edu.

Courtesy of UM Communications