BMC BLACK VOICES PROGRAMME BOOK - Book - Page 36
Much Black history over the past century and a
half has been told through song which has
captured the sound of the age.
The journey of Black sacred song in the
Americas reveals a sound of perseverance in
pain, and hope through hurt. Much of it is
community singing, and the programme the
choir will present will focus on the idea of our
shared experiences as human beings—all of our
stories—and the power of sharing that through
the sound of song.
The songs will not just be presented, but will
provide a couple of opportunities for the
audience to be part of a large choir!
Ken Burton is a British conductor, composer,
and arranger whose work spans classical,
gospel, jazz, and ûilm music. A familiar face on
BBC One’s Songs of Praise, he is celebrated for
his dynamic musicianship and for bringing
together diverse musical traditions with
creativity and authenticity.
Born in London to parents from the West Indies,
Burton’s musical roots were nurtured in the
harmonies of church and family gatherings. He
began leading choirs at a young age,
developing a passion for gospel and choral
music that would shape his life’s work. A
graduate of Goldsmiths, University of London,
he has become one of the UK’s most respected
choral leaders.
Burton’s ensembles — including the London
Adventist Chorale, Adventist Vocal Ensemble,
