During its second annual “Classical Roots” concert on April 21, 2012, the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra and Pops Conductor John Morris Russell will perform with tenor Rodrick Dixon and a Community Mass Choir prepared by area church music leaders. Dixon, who performed with the CSO at last year’s sold-out inaugural “Classical Roots: Life Ev’ry Voice” event at the 3,400-seat Music Hall, is serving as the concert’s creative chair this year in addition to performing on the program, and area church and music leaders will also provide artistic guidance. Among the church leaders participating in the event are Eric Oliver (Zion Baptist Church), Geneva K. Woode (Quinn Chapel A.M.E. Church), Jason Bailey (Union Baptist Church), Brenda Screws (Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church), and Deborah Shipps (African American Ministries, Archdiocese of Cincinnati). “Classical Roots” is a celebration of African-American music traditions, focusing this season on the journey from African melody to American spiritual and gospel traditions.
Posted December 1, 2011
Photo by Kevin Kavanaugh
