Seattle University’s School of Theology and Ministry will host Dr. Ysaye Barnwell as Guest Lecturer in its third annual “Faith & Values in the Public Square” lecture series. Dr. Barnwell, who has been featured at UUA and PNWD Assemblies, will present “What Good is a Song? Consider an African Worldview,” along with a short musical performance.Where: Pigott Auditorium at Seattle University
A professor at Howard University College of Dentistry and a health program administrator at Children’s Hospital National Medical Center and at Gallaudet University, Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell is perhaps best known for her 34 years with the African-American female a capella group, Sweet Honey in the Rock. She is also a commissioned composer, recording artist, actress and author.
Inspired by the songs and dancing at the celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life in South Africa, Dr. Barnwell will share the elements of the African World View and how is has impacted the use and evolution of African American music, from Spirituals to the music of the Civil Rights Movement.
Dr. Barnwell has spent much of the past thirty years off stage, working as a master teacher and choral clinician in African American cultural performance. Her workshop “Building a Vocal Community: Singing in the African American Tradition” has been conducted on three continents, making her work in the field a significant source of inspiration for both singers and non-singers, a model of pedagogy for educators, cultural activists and historians.
Four axioms have proven significant in Barnwell’s life:
- To whom much is given, much is required.
- As one door closes, another door opens.
- Everything matters.
- Say Yes!
Visit her website for more information: http://www.ymbarnwell.com/