The Concert Will be a Celebration of Community, Culture, and Black Music Month Hosted by the President and First Lady of the United States
Hampton, VA., (June 13, 2023) – The Hampton University Concert Choir, under the dynamic leadership of Director Omar Dickenson, has been invited to perform at the White House for a special Juneteenth Concert on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. This commemorative event will take place during Black Music Month where the Biden-Harris Administration will uplift American art forms that sing to the soul of the American experience.
University President Darrell K. Williams shared his excitement for the invitation, “We are absolutely thrilled and proud to have the Hampton University Concert Choir represent our institution at the White House for this remarkable Juneteenth Concert. This invitation speaks volumes about the immense talent and unwavering dedication of our choir members, as well as the incredible leadership of Director Omar Dickenson. I extend my appreciation to the President and First Lady for hosting this extraordinary event. The Hampton University Concert Choir’s performance will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on this momentous occasion, showcasing the talent, passion, and artistry that epitomize our university’s commitment to excellence.”
Renowned for their powerful voices and stage presence, the Hampton University Concert Choir has maintained a repertoire of choral masterworks from some of the most prolific American composers. The Choir has become distinguished for performing the innovative compositions of R. Nathaniel Dett, Noah F. Ryder, Roland M. Carter, and Nathan Carter. The Choir also performs the outstanding work of contemporary composers and arrangers such as Marques L.A. Garrett, Stacey V. Gibbs, and B. E. Boykin.
“I am immensely honored and filled with gratitude for the incredible opportunity for the Hampton University Concert Choir to perform at the White House for this special Juneteenth Concert. It is a profound privilege to showcase the talent, passion, and artistry of our exceptional choir members on such a historic stage. University Choir Director Omar Dickenson shared his sentiment regarding the opportunity: ‘This performance not only represents a significant milestone in our journey but also symbolizes the power of music to bring people together, celebrate our shared culture, and honor the rich contributions of the Black community. We are deeply thankful to the President and First Lady for their recognition of the importance of Juneteenth and Black Music Month. We eagerly anticipate delivering a soul-stirring and unforgettable performance that will resonate with audiences, inspire unity, and leave a lasting impact on this momentous occasion.’
They will take to the historic White House stage tonight at 7 p.m., captivating audiences nationwide. This significant invitation shines light on their well-established reputation as ambassadors of excellence in choral music.
This event is supported by (in alphabetical order): National Endowment for the Arts, National Endowment for the Humanities, Pernod Ricard USA, STARZ #TaketheLead Initiative and The Recording Academy will feature:
Audra McDonald
Broadway Inspirational Voices
Cliff “Method Man” Smith
Colman Domingo
Fisk Jubilee Singers
Hampton University Concert Choir
Jennifer Hudson
Ledisi
Maverick City Music
Morgan State University Marching Band – The Magnificent Marching Machine
Nicco Annan
Patina Miller
Step Afrika!
Tennessee State University Marching Band – Aristocrat of Bands
“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band
The concert will be livestreamed at 7pm tonight.
To view the celebration, visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/live/
To learn more about the White House Juneteenth celebration, visit: Black Music Month [whitehouse.gov]
