John Malveaux: 'I am reminded that African American achievements are undeniable past and present.'

[Richard Thompson]

John Malveaux of www.MusicUNTOLD.com sends these observations:

“I attended a special screening of RED TAILS two days before the national release on January 18, 2012 and wore a promotional cap from LUCASFILM to the African American Art Song Alliance Conference session of Saturday, February 11^th. Tuskegee University did not offer a presenter at the Conference but talent residing in the State of Alabama offered memorable contributions.

“During the Friday Feb. 10 morning session, Contemporary Leanings (Songs of Richard Thompson, Gary Powell Nash, and Adolphus Hailstork) tenor Roderick George with pianist Wallace Cheatham sang with perfect clarity 'FOUR ROMANTIC LOVE SONGS' (Dunbar) by composer Hailstork. Roderick George is an associate professor of Music (voice, diction, vocal literature), University of Montevallo in Montevallo, Alabama. 

“During the evening bouquet session, young soprano Makeda Hampton lovingly sang three selections from 'MISS WHEATLEY’S GARDEN' by Rosephanye Dunn Powell. Ms. Hampton is currently on the voice faculty at Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama and composer Rosephanye Dunn Powell is associate professor of music at Auburn University whom i have met several times. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, I am reminded that African American achievements are undeniable past and present.”  [Adolphus C. Hailstork (b. 1941) is featured at AfriClassical.com]