The African-American Spiritual is a special part of American music history. No other type of music can claim to trace its roots entirely to America while possessing a longer lifespan that the Black Spiritual. It is a genre of choral music that continues to be expounded on today by many composers and arrangers, while finding a home in school music rooms in elementary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions around the world. Musicians that examine its history and performance practices enjoy a very unique singing experience. This website attempts to briefly examine this history and identify the performance practices that are necessary as one prepares to sing an African-American Spiritual.
Nick Kwapis, Webmaster
Director of Music and Worship, St. John Lutheran Church and School in Rochester, MI
Director of Choirs, Lutheran High School Northwest in Rochester Hills, MI
Master of Music Education Candidate, Oakland University in Rochester, MI