An Evening of Gospel Music, African Rhythm and Jazz, and Rhythm ‘n Soul
This concert showcases three Humber Music Student Ensembles, each one a unique genre, yet all three reverberate with a shared African heritage. Reverberations II is the sequel to Humber Music’s Reverberations concert in 2023 and promises to be just as spectacular. Come experience the uplifting power of the Gospel Choir, the driving rhythms of the African Rhythm and Jazz and the infectious groove of Rhythm ‘n Soul for an evening that is inspiring, rejuvenating and enlivening!
Faculty member Natalie Stewart brings an infectious energy as director of the Gospel Choir, and the students are equally inspiring. With over 20 students, the ensemble is made up of students from a variety of musical disciplines and draws upon the performance practices of black gospel music. The power of gospel music brings to life a vibe that resonates with the soul, stirring faith, inspiration, hope, and even joy in the midst of sorrow–tenets of the black cultural experience for over a century. Showcasing Humber's skillful and exceptional musical talent, the unifying power of Humber's Gospel Choir is like music therapy for the soul: soothing, uplifting, refreshing, and energizing!
Also performing will be the African Rhythm and Jazz Ensemble. The music is rooted in the ancient rhythms of Africa - the roots of jazz – and married with today's jazz harmonies. The ensemble bring together these two Black Kushitic worlds to inspire original compositions and arrangements. Ensemble Director Waleed Abdulhamid, originally from Sudan, is a percussionist, bassist, and multi-instrumentalist and composer active in the Toronto music scene since his arrival 1991 and on faculty at Humber College.
The Rhythm 'n Soul Ensemble will round off the evening with a focus on repertoire which blends the African American music genre of rhythm and blues with contemporary funk and soul music. The Ensemble will perform the classic R&B, soul and funk standard repertoire made famous by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and James Brown. The Rhythm 'n Soul Ensemble is directed by faculty member and bass player Will Jarvis.
