Thursday, February 4, 2027
7:00 PM
“VOICE: Living Democracy” for Black History Month
Concert with Apollo Chamber Players
Newly Commissioned Piece about Broken Obelisk!
Pay What You Can $15-30 | In-person with chair seating
Inspired by the exploration of democracy as sacred work, VOICE explores the responsibilities and possibilities of civic life through music, poetry, and dialogue. Featuring Houston Poet Laureates, nationally recognized composers, and civil rights leaders, this performance examines freedom, dissent, equality, and the enduring work of building community.
A program centerpiece is a new commission by Houston-based jazz composer Jalen Baker. Co-commissioned by Apollo Chamber Players and Rothko Chapel, the work finds inspiration from Barnett Newman’s Broken Obelisk and its journey from civic controversy to beloved Houston landmark.
Through chamber music as a bold, collaborative vehicle for cultural harmony, VOICE explores democracy beyond politics – as a living practice of empathy, courage, participation, frustration, and hope.
Guest Artists & Composers
Houston Poet Laureates – Outspoken Bean (2021-23) ∙ Aris Kian Brown (2023-25) ∙ Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton (2017-19) ∙ Reyes Ramirez (2025-27)
Daniel Bernard Roumain, composer & speaker ∙ Kenneth Morris, Jr., co-creator & narrator (Frederick Douglass Family Initiative) ∙ Jalen Baker, composer & vibraphone ∙
Drew Johnson, vibraphone ∙ Penelope Campbell, soprano ∙ Elizabeth Tait, mezzo ∙ Wayne Ashley, tenor ∙ Kenneth Gayle, tenor ∙ Keaton Brown, baritone