Show notes
When Jason Hardink discovered Shawn Okpebholo’s music on Facebook, he knew he had to perform something by this incredible composer. But as he began learning ψαλμοὶ καὶ ὕμνοι καὶ ᾠδαὶ πνευματικαί ("psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs"), he struggled with whether it was appropriate for him, as a white pianist, to be performing a piece rooted deeply in the musical and religious traditions of Nigeria, African American culture, and Papua New Guinea.
Jeff Counts speaks with Jason about the responsibility performers have to examine their own repertoire choices and present works from diverse voices in a way which respects their origins while bringing them to new audiences.
This episode is also available in a video version at https://youtu.be/X0FScqdCYBA.
Jason mentions the following articles, pieces, and performances in this conversation:
Anthony R. Green: “What the Optics of Music Say to Black Composers”, in NewMusic USA
https://nmbx.newmusicusa.org/what-the-optics-of-new-music-say-to-black-composers/
“O Freedom” (arr. Okpebholo) — Wayne Arthur Paul, baritone | Javier Arrebola, piano
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7zGZTeXikk
Two Black Churches — Will Liverman, baritone | Paul Sanchez, piano
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHehlg94NQc
Jeff Counts | host
Jason Hardink | pianist
recording mastered by Michael Carnes
produced by Chris Myers (https://www.argylearts.com)
Transcript available at https://www.novaslc.org/novapodcast/novapodcast013
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