Chicago a cappella celebrates the power of African-American Spirituals in 'Wade in the Water'

[Joseph Jennings; Go Down, Moses: Chicago a cappella (2001)]

Chicago a cappella's CD Go Down, Moses includes “Walk Togedder, Childron” by R. Nathaniel Dett, who is profiled at AfriClassical.com. The website features a comprehensive Works List by Prof. Dominique-René de Lerma, http://www.CasaMusicaledeLerma.com]

Chicago a cappella celebrates the power of African-American Spirituals in “Wade in the Water”www.chicagoacappella.org

Acclaimed vocal ensemble presents world premiere of new commission by Joseph Jennings, and welcomes Mr. Jennings for two post-concert discussions.

Chicago, IL — Chicago a cappella will inspire and move audiences at its upcoming concert of African-American spirituals, Wade in the Water. The acclaimed vocal ensemble will perform the world premiere of a new commission, “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen,” by Grammy Award-winning arranger Joseph Jennings, former music director of the men’s choral group Chanticleer. Mr. Jennings will participate in free post-concert chats following the Evanston and Oak Park performances. Artistic Director Jonathan Miller’s new cycle, OId Testament Spirituals, also receives its world premiere at this concert. Audiences will hear both traditional and contemporary spirituals, including jubilant and powerful arrangements by Robert Morris, Moses Hogan, and Oak Park composer Paul Carey. Lobby displays by the Bronzeville Historical Society will provide audiences a deeper understanding of the music’s historical context. Join Chicago a cappella for this profound and uplifting musical experience.

Wade in the Water will take place Friday, February 3, 2012, at 8:00 pm, at Anne and Howard Gottlieb Hall, 38 S. Peoria St. in Chicago, IL; Saturday, February 4, at 8:00 pm, at Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave. in Naperville, IL; Saturday, February 11, at 8:00 pm, at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave. in Evanston, IL; and Sunday, February 12, at 4:00 pm, at Pilgrim Congregational Church, 460 Lake St. in Oak Park, IL. For tickets and information, visit www.chicagoacappella.org or call (773) 281-7820.