Thursday June 20, 2024, 7:30 PM
“A Celebration of Black Composers”
Terry M. Fischer Theatre
St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley
3400 Pershall Road, St Louis 63135
Terrence Abernathy, Guest Conductor
The Gateway Festival Orchestra led by Guest Conductor Terrence Abernathy celebrated Juneteenth with a cultural and musical feast that pays homage to the enduring contributions of Black composers.
From the emotional depth of “Darker America” by William Grant Still to the classical elegance of “Symphonie Concertante” by Joseph Bologne, and the soul-stirring beauty of Florence Price’s “Adoration,” the program is a testament to the richness and diversity of Black musical voices. Works by St. Louis composers Blake Hernton and Terrence Abernathy added a personal and contemporary touch to the evening.
The concert was free to attend.
Darker America…….………………William Grant Still
Symphonie Concertante…….….Joseph Bologne
Ra’Geen Washington, Violin
Blake Hernton, Violin
Adoration…………..………………………Florence Price
Grace Fisher, Soprano
Art Song Suite..Florence Price, arr. T. Abernathy
Othello Suite, op 79…...Samuel Coleridge Taylor
Enough is Enough*…………….…………Blake Hernton
Third Times Charm* ………….Terrence Abernathy
*World Premiere
