A Note of Hope Concert

One of my overdue tasks is getting a blog going for my new company, Citygate Films. When I am able to tackle that, I want to write about what I've learned so far about a particular American art form: the traditional Negro spiritual. I'm learning about the history of these songs because of a documentary I'm producing. It's a fascinating topic, but more on that later! 

For now, I want to invite you to a concert that I'll be filming. It's the "A Note of Hope" event in Glen Mills, PA (near Philadelphia) on May 2nd and it features some of the principals of this film. John Blake, Jr. is an internationally renowned jazz violinist and he has written some new jazz arrangements of these traditional songs. He will be performing these arrangements, along with other material, with fellow jazz artists Gerald Veasley, Sumi Tonooka, and Rosella Washington. And I can assure you, it's some smoking hot jazz! I had a chance to film one of John's concerts at Howard University a few weeks ago, when he performed these arrangements with Howard's jazz vocal group, Afro Blue. It was so much fun that it was hard to concentrate on my job! I am eagerly looking forward to the next performance.

So if you're anywhere within driving distance of Philadelphia, book your honey for a date or grab a group of music-loving friends and show up for this outstanding benefit for Covenant Mercies. Not only will you hear some topflight musicians, you'll also be supporting a ministry to AIDS orphans in Africa. And if you're planning on coming, leave a comment. I look forward to seeing you there!

Comments

[Mel]

Hi! I'm definitely going to try and come. I go to Bryn Mawr College, and saw a sign advertising the group a few weeks ago (I think they had a performance at Haverford college)...and I missed it. I am going to consult a map and see how far SEPTA can get me to this site!

Love your blog! God Bless!

[Rachel]

Wouldn't miss this for the world! I attended their last benefit and it was REALLY great!