New England Conservatory Presents 7th Annual Coretta Scott King Tribute Concert
By Afton Wooten(Photo credit: Ekua Holmes)
The New England Conservatory (NEC) puts on the 7th annual Coretta Scott King Tribute Concert, titled “Life. Love. Legacy.” on Feb. 26 in Jordan Hall.
The musical tribute is co-curated by NEC’s Black Student Union and Castle of our Skins. This year’s concert holds special significance as it marks the 70th anniversary of Coretta Scott King’s graduation from NEC, where King studied music education and voice (’54, ’71 Hon. DM). The concert’s title pays homage to King’s autobiography, “My Life, My Love, My Legacy.”
Musicians from Berklee and the Boston Conservatory perform works by Forbes Graham, Frederick C. Tillis, Mason Bynes, Jessie Montgomery, Regina Harris Baiocchi, Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway, Joseph Haydn, and Jonathan Bailey Holland. Monique Van Willingh narrates.
King, a trailblazing activist and soprano is one of NEC’s most notable graduates. She is known for her unwavering commitment to peace, dedication to family, and incredible sense of purpose. Her legacy extends beyond her pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement with her dedication to using music as a vehicle for social change through her Freedom Concerts and more.