'First complete performance of the Afro-American Symphony in the history of Mississippi' Nov. 19

[Dr. Herbert Woodward Martin (above); Dr. Willis C. Patterson (below)]

"MUSIC AND THE ARTS: STILL OUR ONLY FUTURE", is a conference which will take place from November 19-22, 2009 in Historic Downtown Natchez, Mississippi. It is described at WilliamGrantStill.com: “Over 400 prominent music educators, music students, musicologists and others from colleges, universities, conservatories and other professional organizations throughout the United States and abroad are expected to attend this inaugural event. Join us in Natchez!”

Judith Anne Still of William Grant Still Music adds:

“News about the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra concert, Nov. 19th in Natchez: They will present the first complete performance of the Afro-American Symphony in the history of Mississippi, and the first professional performance of "Deserted Plantation." The narrator will be Dr. Willis Patterson for the concert, Herbert Woodward Martin for the symphony. Other soloists: John McLaughlin Williams, James Sterrett-Bryant and Dr. Everett Jones. A stellar event all-round!” 

Dr. Willis C. Patterson is Professor Emeritus of Voice at The University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, according to the website of The University of Michigan. TheVincentBrothersReview.org says: “Dr. Herbert Woodward Martin has served as Poet-in-Residence and Professor of English at the University of Dayton for more than thirty years.”