The Michigan State University College of Music presents two performances of its annual concert celebrating the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Jan. 14 in MSU Auditorium’s Fairchild Theatre.
“Jazz: Spirituals, Prayer and Protest,” is part of the university-wide MLK Day celebration, the theme being “Building Inclusive Communities.”
Rodney Whitaker, jazz bass professor and director of the jazz studies program, said he always appreciates collaborating and engaging with the MSU community to coordinate this event.
“During this time of heightened cultural tension, it’s essential that we take a moment to pause and reflect, but also to celebrate our differences and embrace the power of diversity,” Whitaker said. “This annual concert offers a great backdrop to honor the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s legacy.”
The concert will feature MSU jazz orchestras I, II and III, conducted by Whitaker.
The MSU Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives organizes the university’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, which will be MSU’s 38th Annual Celebration of MLK Day and marks the 50th anniversary of King Jr.’s death on April 4, 1968. The celebration also includes a commemorative march, service project and community partners fair, a social justice exhibit and student performance and a community scholarship dinner.
Both performances are free, but tickets are required for admission. Tickets are available over the phone at (517) 353-5340 or for pick-up from the College of Music main office located in the Music Building.
For more information, please visit: http://www.music.msu.edu/event-listing/jazz-spirituals-prayer-and-protest- concert-2