Saturday, February 7
Black History Month Celebration: Our Musical Roots
During the national celebration of Black History Month, The
Hermitage will host four weekly programs exploring the progress made in
African-American history and honoring the lives of those who were enslaved at
The Hermitage. These programs will open your eyes to the untold stories of the
men and women who called The Hermitage home. All events are free but do not
include admission to The Hermitage. Visit thehermitage.com/events to see the
full month’s schedule.
“Spiritual Songs: The History of the Negro Spiritual” explores
the Negro Spiritual as a historical American art form. Dr. Naima Johnston-Bush
captivates her audience with the stories behind the spirituals, little known
facts and a dynamic voice that brings each song alive. Tracing the history of
this powerful musical expression of faith, the audience is led from the 1600’s
to the present, illustrating the impact and influence of African American
Spiritual Music in all musical genres today!
Join us as we learn to “play the spoons,” one of the oldest
forms of creating music. Originated in Africa, spoons were used as musical
instruments in America by enslaved people because they were inexpensive,
household items that could be easily obtained to make music. Spoons continue to
be played today in many music genres including blues, jazz, rock and folk music.
Each participant will receive a set of spoons. This interactive musical program
will be hosted by the National Museum of African American Music.
11 a.m. , 3 p.m. - “Spiritual
Songs: The History of the Negro Spiritual” with
Dr. Naima Johnston-Bush
1 p.m. - “Playing the Spoons”
Interactive Musical Program
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
4580 Rachel’s Lane
Nashville, TN 37076
615-889-2941