Today, a ceremonial groundbreaking for the National Museum of African American History and Culture was held on the National Mall. Numerous dignitaries, honored guests and those responsible for the museum’s inception gathering in a comfortably spacious tent which was magnificently configured for the occasion. A musical prelude began at 9:00 a.m. and featured performances by Howard University’s vocal jazz ensemble, Afro-Blue, The Madrigal Singers of the National Cathedral and St. Alban Schools, The Heritage Signature Chorale and The United States Navy Band.
The acclaimed ensemble from Howard University began with a work entitled, “My Heart Stood Still.” Of special recognition was an original piece by senior Shakira Rogers, who introduced an original piece that she composed for the group, called “Too Marvelous for Words.” What an appropriate selection for such a day of great honor, pride and sense of accomplishment.
The Madrigal Singers comprised of St. Albans and the National Cathedral offered several spiritual selections. Adding a youthful energy to the celebration, the young singers exuberantly began with Moses Hogan’s arrangement of “Ride On, King Jesus.” Their final selection, the crowd pleaser: “The Storm is Passing Over” garnered enthusiastic applause.
A favorite among Washington, D.C. concert audiences for their dedication to the preservation of African American music traditions, The Heritage Signature Chorale brought an emotional depth to these songs of deliverance, hope and sacred devotion. Beginning with one of their signatures, Bartholomew’s “Innocent Lamb,” the chorale sang with an assured sense of dignity. Their posture, facial expressions and carriage all added to a musical rendering of stylistic transparency. A rousing arrangement of “Soon Ah-Will Be Done” served as the musical icing on the deliciously sound choral prelude.
Celebrated actress Phylicia Rashad served as Mistress of Ceremonies and seamlessly carried the program from one point to the next with her eloquent delivery. After the presentation of the colors, world renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves sang the “National Anthem” with a marked grandeur, accompanied attentively by pianist Maxwell Brown.
The church has historically been a part of the African-American experience. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III, pastor of Harlem’s Historic Abyssinian Church offered moving words of unity that ushered the audience to ovation. Stanley J. Thurston then led The Heritage Signature Chorale in Florence Price’s arrangement of the spiritual “My Soul’s Been Anchored.” Numerous dignitaries offered celebratory remarks for the occasion.
Lonnie Bunch, the founding director of the museum reflected on the importance of such a museum. “In the words of John O. Franklin…we need a museum tells the unvarnished truth.” he exclaimed. Bunch’s words set the tone for the importance of the gathering. “There is nothing nobler than remembering our ancestors…we are touched, shaped and enriched by African-American culture, all day, every day.” he said.
Other remarks were offered by Mayor Vincent Gray of the District of Columbia, Dr. Richard Kurin, Under Secretary for History, Art and Culture, Co-chairs-Linda Johnson Rice and Richard Parsons, The Honorable John Lewis and The Honorable Sam Brownback, Governor of Kansas.
“I am proud that the District of Columbia will be its home.” said Mayor Vincent Gray..
Internationally acclaimed baritone Thomas Hampson gave a commanding performance of William Grant Still’s ‘Grief’ and the traditional shaker hymn, “Simple Gifts” arranged by Aaron Copland. A towering confident stage presence, marked by an arresting charm brought honor to the contrasting songs from the American songbook.
An unexpected precious moment came in the program when the children of the Stuyvesant Heights Montessori School presented a gift of $600.00 to the museum project. To date, they are the youngest contributors and were recognized for their gift. First Lady Michelle Obama, in her grace and maternal warmth embraced the young girl in the trio of students for her thoughtfulness. It truly was a remarkable scene and showed the natural, caring nature of Mrs. Obama..
Jazz pianist Jason Moran played a beautiful rendition of Duke Ellington’s “I Like the Sunrise.” The carefree nature of his playing captured the joyous nature of the day.
Dr. G.Wayne Clough, the 12th Secretary of the Smithsonian moved the audience with his thoughtful words. “Voices silenced in the past will be heard now and in the future.” he said.
Former First Lady Laura Bush gave words of heartfelt appreciation to the many people who laid the groundwork for the establishment of the museum, including her husband, President George W. Bush.
The address by President Barack Obama offered several points of thoughtful reflection.
“It is an honor to be here to see the fruit of your labor…in moments like this, I think about Malia and Sasha, my daughters and your children…that they see the museum not as a recognition of tragedy, but as a celebration of life.” he said.
Ending the celebration was the concert anthem of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Roland Carter, sung by the combined choirs, mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves and baritone Thomas Hampson accompanied by The United States Navy Band, conducted by Stanley J. Thurston.
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