Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Romantic

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Opera

 

The Morehouse-Spelman Chorus is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1929 by Dr. Wendell P. Whalum, who was the director of the Morehouse College Glee Club at the time. The ensemble was initially formed as a collaboration between Morehouse College and Spelman College, two historically black colleges located in Atlanta, Georgia. The goal of the ensemble was to provide students with an opportunity to study and perform classical music, which was not widely available to African American students at the time. The Morehouse-Spelman Chorus quickly gained a reputation for excellence, and over the years, it has become one of the most respected and celebrated choral ensembles in the United States. The ensemble has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the world, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center. They have also performed internationally, touring Europe, Africa, and Asia. The Morehouse-Spelman Chorus is made up of students from both Morehouse College and Spelman College, and the ensemble is led by a team of talented conductors and musicians. The ensemble has had several notable directors over the years, including Dr. Whalum, Dr. David Morrow, and Dr. Kevin Johnson. One of the highlights of the Morehouse-Spelman Chorus's history was their performance at the inauguration of President Barack Obama in 2009. The ensemble was invited to perform at the inauguration by the Presidential Inaugural Committee, and they sang a stirring rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," which is often referred to as the "Black National Anthem." The Morehouse-Spelman Chorus has also won numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 2011, the ensemble was awarded the National Medal of Arts, which is the highest honor given to artists and arts organizations by the United States government. The ensemble has also won several Grammy Awards, including Best Choral Performance in 1986 and 1991. In addition to their performances and awards, the Morehouse-Spelman Chorus has also had a significant impact on the world of classical music. The ensemble has commissioned and premiered numerous works by African American composers, and they have helped to promote the study and performance of classical music among African American students. Overall, the Morehouse-Spelman Chorus is a remarkable ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. Their dedication to excellence and their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the arts have made them a beloved institution in the United States and beyond.

More....