An Evening at Versailles

An evening of splendor in all sorts of ways took place recently at the residence of the Ambassador of France, H.E. Gérard Araud, in Washington, DC.

Celebrating the partnership of the Colour of Music, a black classical musicians festival and music students of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, guests were treated to a taste of what is to come in the future, and later this month.

I’m not pictured, because I was busy conducting interviews and taking some pictures myself, aided by Kellie Anderson @sojournal.creatives, but here’s the gist. If you live in DC or know someone who does, please share this. Or get on a plane yourself!

On March 14 @ 7:30pm at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, a collection of all-female artists will highlight black female composers in a showcase performance as a tribute to Ellington co-founder Peggy Cooper Cafritz.

On March 16 @ 7:30pm again at Ellington, Dvorak’s New World Symphony and Mozart’s Requiem will be presented in a grand performance by the Colour of Music Chamber Orchestra, the Ellington Orchestra, and the Ellington Chorale.

A portion of the proceeds from the weekend will directly support the Instrumental and Vocal Music departments at Ellington. The experience also provides a unique opportunity for Ellington students to expand their repertoire while affirming their place in the world of classical music.