Structurally Sound at Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
January 24, 2025 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Co-sponsored by Richard McClelland and the Family of Carroll V. Williams.
The 2024-25 Structurally Sound series is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. This performance was made possible with the support of a Sphinx MPower Artist Grant. Visit sphinxmpower.org to learn more.
Structurally Sound is a one-of-a-kind concert series supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts. This innovative program pairs live performances with rich storytelling, exploring how music interacts with the architectural and historical significance of Detroit’s iconic venues. The January concert honors the contributions of Black composers to classical music and celebrates the museum’s role as a cornerstone of African American culture and history.
Program Highlights
The Spiral Quartet will perform a compelling program featuring both classic and contemporary works, including the world premieres of two compositions by Black composers, Alison Loggins-Hull and Ehren Valmé This performance was made possible with the support of the University of Michigan and a Sphinx MPower Artist Grant. Visit sphinxmpower.org to learn more.
- Lyric for Strings by George Walker
- Spiraling by Alison Loggins-Hull (World Premiere)
- Angelus by Ehren Valmé (World Premiere)
- Xango God of Thunder by Jeff Scott
- Monuments by Adolphus Hailstork
- Songs of Separation by William Grant Still
Meet the Spiral Quartet
The Spiral Quartet comprises four of the nation’s premier trombonists:
- David Jackson: Professor of Trombone, University of Michigan, and champion of new music.
- Kenneth Thompkins: Professor of Trombone, University of Michigan, and former Principal Trombone of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.
- Weston Sprott: Dean and Director of the Preparatory Division at The Juilliard School and Trombonist with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra.
- John Lofton: Bass Trombonist, Los Angeles Philharmonic, and faculty at California State University, Long Beach.
The concert will also feature guest pianist Liz Ames, celebrated for her collaborative artistry and innovative performances.
About the Venue
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is a beacon of cultural education, opening minds and changing lives through the celebration of African American history and culture. Its inspiring spaces provide the perfect backdrop for this special performance. Learn more at thewright.org.