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ABOUT THE FOUNDATION
The Denyce Graves Foundation (DGF) is focused on the intersection of social justice, American history, and the arts. Deeply inspired by the achievements of America’s hidden musical figures, the Foundation is invested in doing research and educating the public about their remarkable stories of courage and persistence. From enriching our musical heritage to preparing the diverse pool of tomorrow’s vocal stars, DGF will positively impact how artists are valued in this nation, encouraging inclusive opportunity, access, and advocacy for the next generation.
Welcome Letter from our Founder
Happy Juneteenth,
Welcome to an evening of beautiful music! While I cannot be with you in person today, I send my warmest greetings as we come together to celebrate life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—some of the finest ideals of being American. You are attending a special performance in The Denyce Graves Foundation Community Concert Series—an initiative that continues to grow and thrive as we share the power of classical vocal music with communities across the country.
As the Founder and Artistic Director of The Denyce Graves Foundation (DGF), I am thrilled to see this concert series continue. Together, we remain dedicated to partnering with venues and organizations that share our vision: to create spaces where music can uplift, inspire, and bring people together. I am deeply grateful to Morning Star Baptist Church for opening its doors to host this evening’s music and mission. Your hospitality makes it possible for us to connect with new friends and longtime supporters alike, all while celebrating the art that unites us.
As our Community Concert Series continues to flourish, we hope to see you often at future events. These gatherings are more than performances—they are opportunities to come together, to build and sustain the kinds of communities where we all want to live. “Music is the universal language,” and DGF is proud to support vocal artists as they bring their voices and their stories to audiences like you. To learn more about our work, please visit www.thedenycegravesfoundation.org or follow us on social media. We’d love to hear your thoughts about today’s concert—share a post, spread the word, and, if you’re able, consider supporting our mission with a donation.
Thank you for joining us. Wishing you a joyful and inspiring musical experience!
With gratitude,
Denyce Graves
Founder & Artistic Director
The Denyce Graves Foundation
MEET TODAY'S PERFORMERS
PROGRAM
DGF Community Concert
Amazing Grace
June 19th, 2025
7:00 PM
Morning Star Baptist Church
Featuring
SYMONE HARCUM, soprano
ELIZABETH HILL, piano
WELCOME
The Denyce Graves Foundation
Amazing Grace | Leslie Adams (1932-2024)
The Wider View | Leslie Adams (1932-2024)
I. To the Road!
VI. The Wider View
VII. Love Rejoices
"A Golden Day" | Will Liverman (b. 1988)
"A Prayer" | Will Liverman (b.1988)
Might Call You Art | Jasmine Barnes (b. 1991)
I. Let Me
INTERMISSION
"The Bells" | Margaret Bonds (1913-1972)
Prayer | Leslie Adams (1932-2024)
"There's a man goin' round taking names" | Dave Ragland (b. 1981)
"Steal Away" | Dave Ragland (b. 1981)
"Calvary" | Dave Ragland (b. 1981)
Cantata | John Carter (1932-1981)
V. Toccata (Ride on King Jesus)
WHY DGF MATTERS
The programs of the Denyce Graves Foundation (DGF) promote access and inclusion in American classical vocal arts by championing the hidden musical figures of the past while uplifting young artists of world-class talent from all backgrounds and preparing them for a successful future.
Hidden Voices uncovers and celebrates the contributions of our nation’s outstanding musicians of color whose achievements are not widely known but have an important place in our evolving American cultural identity.
Generational Voices addresses the often missed vulnerability in the careers of emerging artists; offering mentorships, advocacy, and access to top industry professionals, preparing these singers to take ownership of their career trajectories.
Shared Voices, DGF’s initiative to promote belonging, access, and inclusion, invites elite historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and conservatories to participate in a relationship that strives to create and encourage meaningful connections between consortium members – students, faculty, and administrators – that result in a greater awareness of the diversity within the classical vocal arts and culminate in a meaningful collaboration.
WITHOUT THE SUPPORT OF THESE ORGANIZATIONS OUR WORK THIS YEAR WOULD HAVE BEEN IMPOSSIBLE!
JOHN J. POHANKA FAMILY FOUNDATION TRUST
EUGENE B. CASEY FOUNDATION
ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON FOUNDATION
ERWIN L. GREENBERG CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
WITH MUCH GRATITUDE
1050 Connecticut Ave NW, Ste. 500
Washington, DC 20036
1325 Avenue of the Americas, 28th Floor
NYC, NY 10019
917-821-3437
Our Federal tax ID is 86-2276658.
The Denyce Graves Foundation is a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.