Classically Black

Be inspired by a concert of traditional spirituals and sacred songs from selected oratorios at DC's oldest Black congregation.

The concert is free and open to the public; a free-will offering will be collected. Read about the artists below:

Dr. Robert L. Cooper | An acclaimed lyric baritone, he has completed extensive studies in voice, opera, and conducting. Roles have included Ping in Turandot, Angelotti in Tosca, titular role in Rigoletto and Porgy in Porgy and Bess. He was awarded the Doctorate of Musical Arts from University of Washington.

Cherie Davis | A soprano and native of Washington, D.C. who graduated from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. She has performed for former President Obama, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, National Philharmonic Chorale and more.

Dr. Austin Gaskin, Accompanist | A native of Ft. Lauderdale, FL and a proud alumnus of Florida A&M University, he holds advanced degrees in music education from the University of Maryland and the University of Missouri and is a published researcher. Currently, Austin serves in student success at UDC.