Spelman College Glee Club in Concert
Centennial Tour 2025

4 Contributors

Welcome!
Join us in celebrating a century of musical excellence as the Spelman College Glee Club embarks on its Centennial Concert Tour in 2025. This program commemorates 100 years of harmonious voices, rich traditions, and groundbreaking contributions to choral music. Inside, discover the tour schedule, meet our esteemed conductor, explore repertoire highlights, and learn about the Glee Club's lasting legacy, alumni achievements, community outreach, and how you can support our future.
~ Program ~
Lift Every Voice and Sing
James Weldon Johnson
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One Heart, One Mind
Kevin P. Johnson
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Young Gifted and Black
arr. Kevin P. Johnson
Ella's Song
Bernice Johnson Reagon
Our Cry
Elissa Jefferson - Class of 2028
Our Cry
500 years ago,
They took us on ships
and sent us all around the Atlantic.
They beat us and broke us
And built countries upon the very backs they broke.
They built this country on our broken backs.
But we are not a broken people.
So Harriet ran,
King marched,
Du Bois spoke,
Malcolm X taught,
and so many others fought so that today our troubles would be lessened.
Yet, I still hear the cries of those who marched with
king and see the blood shed on Bloody Sunday covering the streets of America.
The pleas of the lower class fall upon careless ears
As the crooked rulers of this age keep their foots on
the necks of the poor and needy,
With their right hands resting on the Bible.
Our books are being banned,
access to education is being stripped right from under us,
My right to walk into an interview and not be denied because
of the black skin that coats my body and the locs that fall from my head
is being taken away.
The works done over hundreds of years are being undone in a matter of months.
Fear is in the hearts of our people, and we are tired.
My ancestors are tired, and left with no choice but to pass
the baton to a complacent generation.
But this is not new to us.
And we will rise up against the evils of this world,
And we will be strengthened and renewed by the same
God that mounted our ancestors up on wings like eagles, so they could soar.
And by the grace of the almighty God,
the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
Who gives rest to the weary and burdened,
Who helps the poor and needy,
Who will vex the wicked and let their malicious plots come to nothing.
The troubles of this world will come to an end,
and we will rest in the arms of the Lord.
The Snow
Edward Elgar
The Sun Never Says
Dan Forrest
Soon I Will Be Done
arr. Kevin P. Johnson
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Spirit Wisdom
arr. Kevin P. Johnson
Good Trouble
arr. Kevin P. Johnson
Intermission
Ride on King Jesus
arr. Moses Hogan
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Wade in the Water
arr. Kevin P. Johnson
My Soul's Been Anchored in the Lord
arr. Moses Hogan
Trouble Don't Last
Soleil Vailes- Class of 2028
Trouble Don't Last
Dear child
Your mother has heard your cries
Softly spoken into the wind
And whisked away with dandelion pappus
She’s listened closely and she acknowledges that
You have been in this cycle before
She’ll speak your name to your father
Who now waits for you with his arms spread wide
Your father was the one that gave you these gifts
A voice that can question, yell, echo and sing
One that carries beyond border walls
And speaks power for those that can't do so themselves
He gave you hands to hold us together
Through times made to make us crumble
And a heart that loves and pumps blood of those who came before you
Their pain pulses, their stories surfacing
And here you are still standing
Dear child
The moment you are experiencing now is one that shall soon be over
You’ve been through this cycle before
Trouble don’t last
The sun shall rise again
Just as you will
Soon you no longer have to walk this earth questioning when it will all end
You no longer have to wonder when you can find peace once again
Because your father has never left you
And love is always by your side.
Children Go Where I Send Thee
arr. Kevin P. Johnson
Thank You Lord
Walter Hawkins
Spelman Hymn
Eddye Mae Money
A Choice to Change the World
Sarah Benibo and Kevin P. Johnson
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A Century of Harmony: Celebrating 100 Years of the Spelman College Glee Club
For a century, the Spelman College Glee Club has stood as a beacon of musical excellence, cultural preservation, and artistic innovation. Founded in 1924, the Glee Club has cultivated a rich tradition of choral performance, showcasing the talent and dedication of Spelman College students. This centennial concert tour marks a significant milestone in the Glee Club's history, celebrating its profound impact on the world of music and its unwavering commitment to empowering women through song.
The Glee Club's journey is one of resilience, passion, and unwavering pursuit of artistic expression. Over the decades, it has evolved from a small ensemble to a renowned choral group, captivating audiences with its diverse repertoire, impeccable vocal technique, and electrifying stage presence. From spirituals and classical compositions to contemporary works by African American composers, the Glee Club's performances reflect a tapestry of musical styles and cultural influences.
As we reflect on the past 100 years, we honor the countless individuals who have contributed to the Glee Club's success. From visionary conductors and dedicated students to supportive alumnae and generous benefactors, each member has played a vital role in shaping the Glee Club's identity and legacy. This concert tour is a testament to their collective efforts and a celebration of the enduring spirit of the Spelman College Glee Club.
Tour Schedule and Venues
The Spelman College Glee Club Centennial Concert Tour 2025 promises a captivating series of performances across the nation. Each venue has been selected to showcase the Glee Club's talent and honor its legacy. We invite you to join us at one or more of these locations to experience the magic of our centennial celebration.
Please visit our website at www.spelmangleeclub.org for ticket information, specific concert times, and any updates to the tour schedule. We look forward to sharing our music with you!
Meet the Conductor:
Dr. Kevin Phillip Johnson
Dr. Kevin Phillip Johnson is an accomplished conductor, composer, and educator who has dedicated his career to fostering musical excellence and empowering young musicians. As the esteemed conductor of the Spelman College Glee Club, Dr. Johnson brings a wealth of experience, passion, and artistic vision to the ensemble.
Dr. Johnson holds a doctorate in choral conducting from the University of Michigan and has served as a guest conductor and clinician for numerous orchestras and choral organizations across the country. His compositions have been performed by leading ensembles, and his research on African American choral music has been widely recognized.
Under Dr. Johnson's leadership, the Spelman College Glee Club has continued to thrive, expanding its repertoire, refining its vocal technique, and captivating audiences with its dynamic performances. He is committed to preserving the Glee Club's rich traditions while also embracing new musical styles and innovative approaches to choral performance. Dr. Johnson's guidance and mentorship have inspired countless students to pursue their musical passions and achieve their full potential.
Repertoire Highlights
The Spelman College Glee Club Centennial Concert Tour 2025 will feature a diverse and captivating repertoire, showcasing the ensemble's versatility, artistic range, and commitment to preserving and promoting African American musical traditions. From timeless spirituals to contemporary works by groundbreaking composers, the program offers a rich tapestry of musical styles and cultural influences.
  • Lift Every Voice and Sing (James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson)
  • Ride on King Jesus (Moses Hogan)
  • My Soul's Been Anchored in the Lord (arr. Moses Hogan)
  • Ella's Song (Bernice Johnson Reagon)
  • One Heart, One Mind (Kevin P. Johnson)
The Glee Club's performances will also include selections from the classical choral repertoire, highlighting the ensemble's technical proficiency and musicality. This centennial concert tour promises to be a memorable and inspiring celebration of choral music, showcasing the talent and dedication of the Spelman College Glee Club.
The Student Leadership
President
Madison Brown C'25
Vice President
Kyrstine Glover C'25
Chief of Staff
Nyomi Munson C'25
Secretary
Sydney Parker C'25
Treasurer
Rayne Stewart C'26
Road Manager
Aaliyah Deere C'27
Tour Managers
Olivia James C'27
Kathryn Tucker C'26
Merch Managers
Ahbri Graves C'27
Onnesty Peele C'27
PR Managers
T'yara Petty C'26
Ava Challenger C'26
Kaylana Barnes C'27
Historian
Milena Clark C'25
Alumnae Liaison
Kaylen Coleman C'27
Librarians
Skylar Mobley C'25
Tiana Bacchus C'25
Wardrobe Mistresses
Jamaya Grant C'26
Kyerra Shields C'27
Set-up Crew Manager
Jordyn O'Neal C'27
Chaplain
Ryan Bates C'26
We extend our sincere gratitude to these outstanding student leaders for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to the Spelman College Glee Club. Their contributions are essential to our success, and we are proud to have them as part of our Glee Club family.
Community Outreach and Educational Initiatives
The Spelman College Glee Club is deeply committed to serving its community and promoting music education through various outreach and educational initiatives. These programs provide opportunities for young people to experience the joy of music, develop their artistic talents, and learn about the rich traditions of African American choral music.
  • The Glee Club regularly performs at local schools, churches, and community centers, sharing its music with diverse audiences.
  • The Glee Club partners with local organizations to offer workshops and masterclasses for young singers, providing them with valuable training and mentorship.
  • The Glee Club hosts an annual summer music camp for high school students, offering intensive instruction in choral singing, music theory, and performance practice.
Through these initiatives, the Spelman College Glee Club strives to make a positive impact on its community and inspire the next generation of musicians and arts advocates.
Glee Club Spotlights
The Spelman College Glee Club has nurtured the talents of countless alumnae who have gone on to achieve remarkable success in various fields. Their accomplishments serve as an inspiration to current Glee Club members and a testament to the transformative power of a Spelman education.
Dr. Joyce Finch Johnson
A renowned concert pianist and former chair of the Spelman College Music Department, Dr. Johnson has performed extensively throughout the world and has been recognized for her contributions to music education and performance.
Dr. B. E. Boykin '2011
An accomplished conductor, composer, and pianist, Dr. Boykin singer, has performed widely in the United States and Europe and has been praised for her powerful voice and dramatic musical creations.
These are just a few examples of the many talented and accomplished alumnae who have been shaped by their experiences in the Spelman College Glee Club. Their stories demonstrate the lasting impact of the Glee Club and its commitment to empowering women to achieve their full potential.
The Legacy of the Spelman College Glee Club
The Spelman College Glee Club's legacy extends far beyond its captivating performances and musical achievements. For a century, the Glee Club has served as a vital platform for empowering women, fostering cultural pride, and promoting artistic excellence. Its impact resonates throughout the Spelman College community and extends to the broader world of music and education.
The Glee Club has provided countless students with invaluable opportunities for personal growth, artistic development, and leadership training. Through participation in the ensemble, students develop their vocal technique, musical knowledge, and performance skills while also cultivating a deep appreciation for the rich traditions of African American choral music. The Glee Club fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where students can express themselves creatively, build lasting friendships, and develop a strong sense of community.
The Spelman College Glee Club's legacy is a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring spirit of Spelman College. As we celebrate 100 years of harmonious voices, we honor the Glee Club's profound impact on the world of music and its unwavering commitment to empowering women through song.
Support the Future: Centennial Fundraising Campaign
As the Spelman College Glee Club embarks on its Centennial Concert Tour, we invite you to support our future and help us continue our legacy of musical excellence and community engagement. Your generous contributions to our centennial fundraising campaign will enable us to provide scholarships for talented students, expand our repertoire, enhance our performance capabilities, and strengthen our outreach programs.
Your support will help us ensure that the Spelman College Glee Club remains a vital force in the world of music and a source of inspiration for generations to come. Donations can be made by contacting the Spelman College Office of Development.
Thank you for your unwavering support of the Spelman College Glee Club. Together, we can ensure that our harmonious voices continue to resonate for another century.
Spelman College Glee Club Centennial Tour Performers