[Anita Johnson; Paragon Ragtime Orchestra in Treemonisha]
Cheyney University
Time: 8:00 PM – TBA
Date: Thursday, April 21
Location: Marian Anderson Music Center
Description: Metropolitan Opera soprano Anita Johnson joins members of the Paragon Ragtime Orchestra and the Cheyney University Concert Choir in a concert performance of 'Treemonisha' with a new orchestration by Rick Benjamin. General admission: $30”
BravoBroadway.com
Anita Johnson
Anita Johnson
“A native of Ypsilanti, Michigan, Anita Johnson received a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from the University of Southern California and a Master of Music in Voice Performance as well as K-12 Music Certification from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. After graduating from the University of Michigan, Ms. Johnson became a member of Opera Music Theatre International under the direction of Jerome Hines, performing extensively throughout New Jersey. An elementary school teacher in the New Jersey Public School system and a pre K-12 teacher at the Harlem School of the Arts, she has created many performance opportunities for children, including children’s operettas and a multi-media performance of international music. Under the auspices of the Virginia Opera Company, Ms. Johnson created and performed a unique one-woman show entitled 'ABC’S: American Black Composers’ Contributions to Our Musical Heritage ©.'”
“Scott Joplin’s opera, TREEMONISHA featuring Rick Benjamin’s Paragon Ragtime Orchestra”
“Joplin’s masterpiece is an optimistic snapshot of an African-·American community’s emergence from slavery. Led by the young woman Treemonisha, the townspeople reject the local conjurers’ superstitions, in favor of hard work and learning. The musical style speaks directly to modern audiences - from heartfelt arias to rousing ragtime choruses, and Joplin’s score snaps to rhythmic life in Rick Benjamin’s new, historically-informed orchestration. The production, originally from Opera Memphis, is a brightly-colored feast for the eyes. It has mostly traditional feel with some modern touches, with the emphasis on the characters’ human qualities.” [Scott Joplin (1868-1917) was a Ragtime and Classical composer who is profiled at AfriClassical.com]
Thanks for the mention Bill: I should point out that this is a concert performance, not a semi-stage one. Regards - Rick Benjamin, Music Director
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