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Gospel music -- History and criticism

 Subject
Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings

Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:

Oral history interview with François Clemmons, 1999 May 29, 2003

 Item
Identifier: M450.05.00003
Abstract François Clemmons recounts how music, especially spirituals, has played a prominent role throughout his life, from singing in church and school assemblies, to the founding of the Harlem Spiritual Ensemble. He describes that while he was trained in classical and operatic music, the Ensemble, founded in 1984, filled a personal need in his life not addressed by his successful concert career. He discusses his views on the difference between spirituals and gospel music, the concertizing of...
Dates: 1999 May 29; Issued: 2003

Oral history interview with Hale Smith, 1999 June, 2003

 Item
Identifier: M450.05.00007
Abstract Hale Smith recounts his early experiences with music beginning with piano lessons at the age of 7, and recognizing his desire to create his own music. He discusses his approach to composing, and his belief that there is no single formula for composing. He describes spirituals as folk songs initially composed by individuals, but transformed over time to be the true voice of a people performing them. He contrasts the musical genre of gospels that he believes are most effectively performed and...
Dates: 1999 June; Issued: 2003