The Cathedral of St. John The Divine is proud to announce the Juneteenth Evensong Service, a celebration of the resilient spirit and an opportunity for reflection on the inherent unity, hope, and liberation that define this significant day. The service will be held on June 19, 2024, at 5:00 PM, bringing together a diverse array of talented artists and musicians.
The Juneteenth Evensong Service will feature an eclectic blend of music, including the soothing sounds of the Kora, a West African string instrument, alongside familiar hymns and chants that honor our ancestors and uplift the spirit. The program will also include powerful Spoken Word performances and the inspiring music of H. T. Burleigh (1866-1949), whose legacy of grace and courage in preserving Negro spirituals remains invaluable.
H. T. Burleigh was a pioneer who not only sang spirituals on the concert stage but also set them down on paper, ensuring these vital pieces of cultural heritage were not lost. His work is a testament to the enduring power of music in preserving history and inspiring future generations.
The service will feature performances by:
- Duo: Malong Jubate and Chelsea Randall – Kora and Piano, respectively.
- Vocalists: Chelsi Clarke, Kofi Hayford, Larry Marshall, and Anthony Turner.
- Spoken Word Artist: Bettina Wilkerson, also known as ‘Poet Gold,’ Poet Laureate of Poughkeepsie, NY.
- The Diocesan Choir of NY.
Music for the service is coordinated by Jeannine Otis of St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery, in collaboration with Kent Tritle and Bryan Zaros from the staff of the Cathedral of St. John The Divine.
This Juneteenth, join us in celebrating the spirit of freedom and resilience through an evening of uplifting and inspiring music and words. The Cathedral of St. John The Divine welcomes all to this special service of reflection and celebration.
