National Verses: Values, Virtue, and Vision in American and African American Song Texts
Is African American music relegated to Negro spirituals and field songs, or is there more?
And how well can Black gospel, hip-hop, and other genres actually represent our
present-day struggle for racial justice and equity?
In this in-depth look at America and its music, Dr. John Ware has the reader reflect
on our values as citizens and our expression through music. Ware describes and dissects
the nation's American, Christian, and Black nationalism and the music that defines each.
Ware provides readers with a fresh, concise, timely idea for a unified and diverse
American people through a new song.
This is no one's dusty history essay. The Mississippi native uses poetry, biblical
references, and more to bring home some controversial ideas about what it means to be
American for all Americans.
Written with the experiences of a musician, performer, and teacher, Ware opens our
eyes to some new truths and provides a stepping-off point for discussion and exploration
from all walks of life.
Ware hopes to promote a spirit of nationalism in our country while sharing his
perspective on racial justice and equity in the field of choral music.
According to Ware, "Art and music impact the emotion, psyche, and yes, the very
soul of humans. It is what unifies us."
He recognizes that choral directors and musicians are also our community's culture
bearers and deserve a place at the table.
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