Hundreds of GA attendees packed the room to hear a presentation by Dr. Ysaye Maria Barnwell. Though she is well known as a singer and composer with Sweet Honey in the Rock, Dr. Barnwell has had a very long and eclectic career. President of Starr King Rev. Rebecca Parker introduced the speaker and this unique workshop.
"There is power in one voice but nothing compares with the power of the communal voice—the sum total of all of our separate voices—unadorned and undaunted, musically, spiritually, politically. In our lifetime, African American history is exemplary of the communal voice. In the brief time available, we will all participate in an experiential exploration of the communal voice."
Before getting into the experiential or participatory portion of the workshop, Dr. Barnwell gave some historical information on the use of the spiritual during times of slavery. She explained how the songs were used as a means of communication since most people could not write. These songs were developed in community--there were no copyrights. The result was that the same lyrical phases were used in several songs. You also had different words put to the same melody. People would take a song and create variations. "Songs were more organic."
She also discussed the power of the Negro spiritual during the civil rights movement of the 1960s. Songs had the power to communicate ideas, unite people and strengthen the resolve of participants.
Dr. Barnwell led the group in several songs. The experience was entertaining and moving.
For more information about Dr. Barnwell and other scheduled workshops she gives throughout the country, visit her web site at www.ymbarnwell.com. For more information on Sweet Honey in the Rock including concert schedule, CD and the new songbook, visit www.sweethoney.com.
