Robert Nathaniel Dett with Nathaniel Gumbs, Jason Max Ferdinand, and Perry So: MAB 2/3/25

A talk in conjunction with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra’s Connecticut premiere of Robert Nathaniel Dett’s “The Ordering of Moses” (in concert on Sunday, February 9, at 3pm in Woolsey Hall). The talk includes Nathaniel Gumbs, Director of Chapel Music at Yale University; Jason Max Ferdinand, Director of Choral Activities at the University of Maryland, College Park; and Perry So, Music Director of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra.

Dett’s “The Ordering of Moses” should have been a cornerstone of American choral music, celebrated for its fusion of spirituals and classical traditions. Composed in 1937, this oratorio premiered at the Cincinnati May Festival and marked a pivotal moment for Black composers in classical music. However, early performances were overshadowed by racism, with the radio broadcast of the premiere cut short due to complaints from listeners calling into the station.

For more about the live concert, visit: https://bit.ly/40nNsqw
For more about Nathaniel Gumbs’s bio, visit: https://bit.ly/42BNnCr
For more about Jason Max Ferdinand’s bio, visit: https://bit.ly/3E1y5ws
For more about Perry So’s bio, visit: https://bit.ly/4h0MDuM
For more about Robert Nathaniel Dett’s bio, visit: https://bit.ly/3Wim9wj

The Beinecke Library and other parts of Yale Library are honored to steward materials by and about R. Nathaniel Dett and to join with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra to celebrate his life, music, and legacy.

Mondays at Beinecke online talks focus on materials from the collections and include an opening presentation at 4pm followed by conversation and Q & A beginning about 4:30pm until 5pm.