October 2, 2023
Now celebrating their 80th season, Chamber Music Detroit will present “Of Thee I Sing! Songs of Love and Justice” with celebrated American soprano Karen Slack at 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 15 in Varner Recital Hall on OU’s campus in Rochester, Mich. The concert is presented in collaboration with the Oakland University School of Music, Theatre and Dance.
Slack has garnered international renown for her artistic versatility, charisma and entrepreneurial endeavors. A recipient of the 2022 Sphinx Medal of Excellence, Slack is known for her dynamic and passionate performances, in both lead operatic roles and on the concert stage; as a sought-after collaborator, curator, and artist advisor; and for her ground-breaking approach to engagement. She is an artistic advisor for Portland Opera, co-chair of the Women’s Opera Network with Opera America, and serves on the board of the American Composer’s Orchestra.
In January 2022, Slack was appointed creative partner with Brooklyn’s National Sawdust, opening with a solo recital and continuing through multiple programs throughout the season.
“Her Metropolitan Opera credentials alone make soprano Karen Slack a major star, and when her glorious voice combines with her passionate advocacy for racial justice she is one of the most important artists of her generation,” said Steve Wogaman, president of Chamber Music Detroit.
“Of Thee I Sing! Songs of Love and Justice” was curated by Slack during the turmoil in the summer of 2020, when the country was forced into a long-overdue racial awakening.
After witnessing the murder of George Floyd on national television — as many did while confined to their homes during the onset of the pandemic – Slack felt it necessary to create a program focusing on the healing powers of love and justice.
“Of Thee I Sing! Songs of Love and Justice” will include material from composers Clayton White, Undine Smith Moore, Ricky Ian Gordon, Scott Gendel, H. Leslie Adams, Jake Heggie, and Adolphus Hailstork.
“This will be an incredibly moving program,” Wogaman said.
Tickets are $50 for premium general admission, $30 for standard general admission, and $10 for students. Tickets can be purchased online at www.chambermusicdetroit.org/2023-24/karen-slack.
OU students and faculty can receive complimentary admission by filling out this form.
For more information, visit www.chambermusicdetroit.org.