Marian Anderson, ca. 1945, by William H. Johnson (American, 1901-1972). Oil on paperboard, 35 5/8 x 28 7/8 inches. Image courtesy of Smithsonian American Art Museum
On Wednesday, March 30th and Thursday, March 31st, the community can join New Muse Concerts in collaboration with the Gibbes Museum of Art and the Charleston County Public Library for “Now Let Me Fly: Songs of Freedom and Transformation,” a program of music that brings the paintings of William H. Johnson to life.
Alva Anderson (voice and viola) and LaToya Reneá (voice, percussion, guitar, and piano) will perform music by Bob Marley, traditional songs of the Underground Railroad, music by John Coltrane with original lyrics by the performers themselves, and more.
Music can be an expression of protest and a powerful agent of change. In this concert, it gives voice to the heroic figures portrayed by William H. Johnson in the exhibit, Fighters for Freedom: William H. Johnson Picturing Justice. Listen for hidden messages in songs of the Underground Railroad, hear new songs of freedom and transformation, and lift your own voice in call and response.
Here’s a look at the schedule: