Campaign for Philanthropic Support for Groundbreaking Cultural Exchange Underway
May 14, 2025- Hampton, VA— The Hampton University Choirs will travel to London from June 24–30, 2025, in celebration of the 95th anniversary of a landmark moment in both university and music history: the 1930 European tour led by renowned composer and former Hampton director of music, R. Nathaniel Dett.
This international tour represents more than a performance opportunity—it’s a cultural homecoming that honors Dett’s vision of African American music as both fine art and a force for global connection. Under his leadership, the Hampton Institute Choir became one of the first African American collegiate choirs to perform internationally, introducing audiences across Europe to the depth, dignity, and spiritual resonance of African American spirituals.
“Dett was a musical visionary who used his gifts to elevate the voices of Black students and the power of our heritage,” said Hampton University Choir Director Omar Dickenson. “This London tour continues that mission—educating through music, building cultural bridges, and honoring the extraordinary foundation he laid.”
R. Nathaniel Dett served as director of music at Hampton from 1913 to 1932, transforming the choir into a world-class ensemble known for its sophisticated blend of classical European traditions and African American spirituals. His arrangements of works like Listen to the Lambs and Juba Dance were deeply emotional, technically rich, and groundbreaking in their embrace of Black musical identity.
The original 1930 tour included stops in England, France, Switzerland, and Germany, and was hailed internationally for its artistry and the integrity of its message. Dett’s leadership helped dismantle stereotypes abroad and affirmed the spiritual as a legitimate and powerful musical form worthy of global recognition.
Now, 95 years later, Hampton students will walk in those same footsteps—this time sharing their talents across London in a series of performances and cultural engagements that carry Dett’s legacy into the present day.
“The spirit of that original choir still lives in our students,” said Dickenson. “We aren’t only honoring Dett—we’re continuing his life’s work.”
Schedule at-a-glance:
June 25 – UK Black Business Entrepreneurs Conference performance.
June 27 – Courtyard performance scheduled at the prestigious London Design Biennale at Somerset House.
June 29 – Exchange Concert with Canterbury Christ Church University afternoon performance.
The Hampton University Music Department invites alumni, supporters, and friends to help make this historic journey possible. To contribute to this trip, visit the link here.
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About Hampton University
Hampton University is a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, recognized for its groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. Contributing $530 million annually to the regional and Commonwealth of Virginia economies, Hampton plays a vital role in driving economic development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. The university was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and recognized as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators, representing 44 states and 32 territories, committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.
For media inquiries regarding Hampton University events and experts, please contact James Parker in the Office of University Relations, at james.parker@hamptonu.edu
