Your first thought of a symphony orchestra should not be of your grandparents in tuxedos and kitten heels using opera glasses. Rather, it should remind you of how majestic and invigorating music, specifically classical, can be.
The late and dear Mother Tynetta Muhammad, wife of the Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad and music extraordinaire, was very fond of classical music artists such as Yo-Yo Ma whom recently played at St. Sabina Church in a “Concert for Peace”. In her words exactly, music is a “gift from Allah and an answer to a prayer”.
She embraced the “Ta Ha: The Final Call Symphonic Suite” which features symphonies, chorus and choreographed ballet of international guest artists and performers from around the world.
It’s no wonder Mother Tynetta was such a beautiful example of spiritual interconnectivity. Even music connected her with Allah (God).
The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan released his “Let’s Change the World” music project that gained much attention from the media and music industry. Despite it mainly comprising of classical pieces, it also features a “who’s who” of the industry; vocalists, musicians, producers and musical engineers are all a part of this magnificent project.
“People would be blown away to know that on this album is Black, Brown, Red, Yellow, White. There are Muslims, Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Agnostics, all on this one album. So it’s the whole world coming together because it’s going to take all of us to change the world,” the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan stated in an interview with 107.5 WGCI, May 11.
At 58 years old, Minister Farrakhan performed with Chicago Symphony and Michael Morgan whom was the associate conductor of the Chicago Symphony. If the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan is our example, challenge yourself to experience this dimension of universal language as he did.
Many groups and performers play in Chicago for free or discounted prices. The Grant Park Music Festival–among many–offer open rehearsals by musicians such as cellist Johannes Moser, pianist Emily Bear and mezzo-soprano Kelley O’Connor. This year, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and orchestras from around the world are holding magnificent performances you should take the time to visit. For the Star Wars’ fans, John Williams’ “A New Hope” is in concert June 27-30.
Don’t let your grandparents have all the fun –join in on appreciating what classical music has to offer.
