NEW MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BOOK/CD SET
A new book and CD set, Voices: Reflections on an American Icon Through Words and Song as well as music inspired by the Civil Rights movement, will be featured at a concert on Jan. 13, 2008, in the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
The book offers reflections from foot soldiers who marched alongside Dr. King, contemporary observers, and distinguished witnesses to history, such as Julian Bond, U.S. Rep. John Lewis, and Harris Wofford.
Also included are writers, like the spirited poet Nikki Giovanni, Pulitzer Prize-winner Gene Patterson, and journalist John Seigenthaler. In addition, Nobel Peace Prize- winners Jimmy Carter and Archbishop Desmond Tutu added their thoughts on King, who "believed in the power of love over hate, the power of nonviolence over violence, and the power of peace over war," said Congressman Lewis.
Dr. King considered music to be the soul of the Civil Rights movement, embracing protestors in companionship and a common cause. "The freedom songs are playing a strong and vital role in our struggle," he once said. "I think they keep alive a faith, a radiant hope in the future, particularly in our most trying times."
The Voices CD features one of the country's finest symphonic choirs, The Choral Arts Society of Washington. Members lift their voices in songs such as "Goin' Up to Glory," "Lift Every Voice and Sing," and Dr. King's favorite hymn, "Precious Lord, Take My Hand." Music was selected from the Society's annual tributes to Dr. King at the Kennedy Center.
The year 2008 marks the 45th anniversary of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech and the 40th anniversary of his death. The legendary Civil Rights leader was assassinated in Memphis on April 4, 1968.
Visit http://www.mlkvoices.com/ for more information.
