Sunday, February 9 • 1–2:30 p.m.
Journey back in time in celebration of Black History Month with vocalist and performer Jackson Caesar as he presents a one-man concert from his audio documentary “Spirituals: Celebrating the Music, Life, and Legacy of Roland Hayes,” a world-famous 1920s African American composer and singer.
Roland Hayes (1887–1977) was a pioneering African American tenor who broke racial barriers in classical music. Born in Georgia, he overcame discrimination to achieve international acclaim, financing his own concerts, including a pivotal 1917 performance at Boston’s Symphony Hall. His European debut at London’s Wigmore Hall in 1920 led to a historic performance for King George V at Buckingham Palace. Hayes became the first Black artist to perform with major orchestras and at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall. Winchester audiences enjoyed a performance from Hayes at the City Auditorium on November 27, 1923. His artistry and perseverance expanded opportunities for Black musicians in classical music.
MSV members: $10; all others: $15 (includes admission to the galleries and the Jacob Lawrence: 3 Series of Prints exhibition). Register by February 8; visit www.theMSV.org or call 540-662-1473, ext. 240.
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"The Winchester Evening Star," November 14, 1923, edition featuring a notice about Roland Hayes' concert at City Auditorium in Winchester, VA. Courtesy of the Stewart Bell, Jr. Archives, Handley Regional Library, Winchester, VA