Last Minute Marvel; A Black History Month Celebration at Purchase College, SUNY | by Ebony Brown

With two days notice to rehearse for a Black History Month Celebration, the Purchase Soul Voices Ensemble stepped up the plate to observe and honor the trials and tribulations of the African American experience through poetry & song. I applaud my fellow Choir members for doing an outstanding job, especially Dana who performed an unrehearsed solo as requested on the spot for "Lord Help Me To Hold Out!"

"Lift every Voice & Sing" brought the campus community (in attendance) to their feet; everyone joined hands and swayed to the mellow, falsetto vocals of Miss Adrian whose delivery was nothing short of conviction and emotion. Even she had to gather herself midway through the song.

This afternoon's celebration included some old favorites such as Bob Marley's "Three little Birds", Sam Cooke's "This Little Light of Mine" and a stunning solo performance by Theater Art and Film's Brittany West who sang, "Keep Your Eyes On the Prize." Yes, it's my hunch that you, me or we will 'keep our eyes on the prize' and 'hold on' even in the face of impossibility.

I'm honored to hone and share my alto vocals as well as be witness to such unity and excitement on Purchase College Campus; a performance well received. The passionate piano execution of "His Eye is on the Sparrow" played by a student of the Conservatory of Music certainly had a few fanning themselves and sighing in awe.

I'm so proud of everyone and appreciate those who showed up and supported our performance. I hope to see you at the next show.

Thank You!
Save the Date: Soul Voices performs on April 9 (Purchase NY) & April 30 (New York, NY)