Pasadena Chorale Honors Black American Composers in Free Concert

The Pasadena Chorale is set to host a free concert titled I BELIEVE on February 25, 2024, in celebration of Black History Month. This event will focus on themes of faith, hope, and social justice, highlighting the significant contributions of Black American composers to the musical landscape.

The concert will feature original spiritual arrangements by Michal Dawson Connor, an Altadena-based composer known for works such as “My Lord, What a Morning” and “There Is a Balm in Gilead.” These pieces reflect deep traditions of resilience and community strength. Additionally, the program includes Margaret Bonds’ Credo, which is inspired by a poem from civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois. This composition aims to evoke themes of conviction and hope, encouraging the audience to embrace social justice and humanity’s shared responsibility.

The performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Pasadena. Admission is free, but attendees are required to reserve tickets due to limited seating. Reservations can be made at pasadenachorale.org.

Community Impact and Educational Initiatives

Founded in 2009, the Pasadena Chorale is a community organization dedicated to uplifting and educating the public through choral music, with a particular focus on works by composers from historically marginalized communities. The organization comprises various ensembles, including auditioned choirs such as the Pasadena Chorale and the Pasadena Choral Society, along with the High Notes choir for students in grades 6-11.

A key initiative of the Chorale is its educational program, Listening to the Future, which supports high school composers by providing mentorship from professional musicians. This program has successfully premiered 71 new works by 29 students from the Pasadena area over the past decade. Currently, 175 singers engage in regular rehearsals, performing for both live audiences and a significant online following.

In the past year, the Pasadena Chorale made headlines by appearing on Good Morning America alongside Katy Perry at the FireAid Benefit Concert, which raised funds for communities affected by the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.

The Chorale has also collaborated with various local arts organizations, including the Pasadena Symphony and POPS, the Pasadena Playhouse, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, further enhancing its impact within the community.

With its upcoming concert, the Pasadena Chorale continues to foster a sense of community and shared cultural heritage, inviting all to celebrate the powerful legacy of Black American composers.