RUSHEN | Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory
BANFIELD | Testimony of Tone, Tune and Time
BANFIELD | Symphony No. 8
Harmony in Black
Embark on a transformative musical journey with Harmony in Black on October 13 in Capitol Theater. This performance features compositions by Dr. William Banfield and renowned artist/composer Patrice Rushen and will be recorded live. Join us as their works weave powerful narratives of equality and justice, drawing inspiration from historical figures such as Frederick Douglass, Martin Luther King Jr., and Paul Robeson. Experience the fusion of artistry, diversity, and brilliance that is Harmony in Black.
Harmony in Black marks the start of the multi-year initiative, Musical Landscapes in Color. In collaboration with Albany Records, the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra (WCO) is spotlighting underrepresented composers who are shaping the contemporary musical landscape. The recorded performance will be published by Albany Records and released in February 2024.
Musical Landscapes in Color Project
The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra is proud to unveil Musical Landscapes in Color, an ambitious multi-year recording project aimed at showcasing the groundbreaking works of living composers of color. Spearheaded by the WCO in collaboration with Composer in Residence, Dr. William Banfield, this initiative represents a significant step towards diversifying the classical music landscape.
With a long-standing commitment to artistic excellence and inclusivity, the WCO has continually pushed boundaries to champion a diverse range of voices within the realm of classical music. Through this unprecedented recording project, the WCO aims to shed light on the immense talent and cultural contributions of composers of color, bringing their music to audiences far and wide.
About Dr. William Banfield
Dr. Banfield, a distinguished composer, ethnomusicologist, and advocate for diversity in the arts, will play a vital role as a collaborator for this transformative endeavor. Dr. Banfield's extensive experience and unwavering dedication to promoting underrepresented voices in music will ensure that the selected repertoire effectively captures the rich tapestry of diverse musical traditions and perspectives. Read more.
About Patrice Rushen
A multifaceted artist renowned for her remarkable contributions to jazz, R&B, and popular music, Rushen is also the Chair of the Popular Music program at USC Thornton School of Music. Read more.