During the aftermath of the Watts Uprisings in the 1960s, Dr. Maulana Karenga decided to create a special December holiday designed for Black people to celebrate themselves, their culture, and their future liberation. Today, Kwanzaa is still celebrated by not only Afro-Americans, but Black people around the globe!
In this broadcast, Garrett McQueen offers a background on the history of Kwanzaa and its guiding principles, alongside musical selections that highlight the spirit of the celebration. The show features the compositions of Florence Price, Duke Ellington, Sean O’Loughlin, and special performances by Imani Winds.
Valerie Coleman: Umoja (Imani Winds)
Florence Price: Piano Concerto in One Movement (New Black Repertory Ensemble, Leslie Dunner, dir; Karen Walwyn, piano)
Duke Ellington: In A Sentimental Mood (Modern String Quartet)
Sean O'Laughlin: Imani (Washington Winds, Edward Petersen, dir; Sonic Fusion)
Mongo Santamaria/Valerie Coleman: Afro Blue (Imani Winds)
James Weldon Johnson/J. Rosamund Johnson: Lift Ev'ry Voice (Imani Winds)
