June is Black Music Month. Although in 2009, President Barack Obama renamed Black Music Month to African-American Music Appreciation Month, it is still fondly called Black Music Month, in order to include World Music by artists throughout the diaspora. First coming into existence in 1979 as Black Music Month, this month was meant to honor and celebrate Black artists’ contributions to music on U.S. soil. President Jimmy Carter wanted people to recognize how much of an impact Black music has had, not only at home but also abroad.
During the month of June, the home of the Nashville Symphony, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, is host to three special programs you might want to check out.
Legends of R&B featuring vocalist Ryan Shaw is Sunday, June 15, at 7:30 PM. Experience soulful powerhouse orchestrations and mighty vocals in an evening of mega R&B hits from the likes of Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, Prince, Jackie Wilson, Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Miracles, Bill Withers, Issac Hayes, Blood, Sweat & Tears, and Ryan Shaw originals.
“A massive talent with a huge voice,” says Billboard magazine of Shaw. The event also features keyboardist Ray Angry (recording artist, member of The Roots, and recent music director for Queen Latifah, Joss Stone and Lauryn Hill), drummer Derrick Wright (in Adele’s band, formerly with Toni Braxton and Talia), bassist Al Carty (currently in Rob Thomas’ band, former music director for Alicia Keys), and guitarist Nir Felder (recording artist and multi-award winning musician who’s played with many top artists).
The annual Nashville African American Wind Symphony Juneteenth Concert is Monday, June 16 at 7:00 PM. Experience the Power of Music & Freedom. Join the Nashville African American Wind Symphony, Inc. (NAAWS) for an electrifying night of soul-stirring melodies at their 4th Annual Juneteenth Concert – “A Celebration of Freedom.” From the hymnals that echo the resilience of our ancestors to the thought-provoking melodies that uplift the spirit and make you dance, this concert promises to be an inspiring journey through sound. Featuring guest performances by the dynamic Sankofa African Drum and Dance Company, the soul-stirring W. Crimm Singers, and captivating narration by Rashad thaPoet, this celebration of freedom and artistry is not to be missed.
The Nashville African American Wind Symphony was founded on September 19, 2020, by Dr. Bruce V.Ayers, Jr. Initially conceived as a community ensemble for college-educated musicians with a passion for ensemble performance, the organization has since evolved into a world-class wind ensemble with a broader mission dedicated to providing music education, training resources, and access to performing arts for young musicians. For more information visit the NAAWS, Inc., website at: www.naawsmusic.org
“The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration with the Nashville Symphony” is Wednesday, June 25 at 7:30 PM. Experience Whitney Houston’s astounding musical legacy like never before.
This new concert tribute features original master recordings of Whitney’s vocals set to new orchestrations of her biggest hits — including “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” “Higher Love,” and “I Will Always Love You” — accompanied by home movies, film performances, and never-before-seen footage. Presented in collaboration with the Estate of Whitney Houston, Park Avenue Artists, and Primary Wave Music. Nashville Symphony will perform with Sean Mayes, conductor.
