Welcome to Sojourn to the Past

Steeped in tradition, “In Performance at the White House” is a regular cultural music and performance event at the White House that has been hosted by first families for decades now, dating back to the time of the Carter administration.  Produced since 1987 by WETA television – Washington’s source for compelling television – the event draws high-profile Washingtonians and honored guests, artists and activist alike.

The show this month is “In Performance at the White House: A Celebration of Music from the Civil Rights Movement,” in honor of Black History Month, and is hosted by the President and Mrs. Obama.  Airing on PBS this evening, features songs from the Civil Rights era, delivered by top entertainers, as well as educational readings and speeches, that impacted the movement greatly.

Sojourn to the Past is also extremely excited that recently, Joan Baez [who sits on our National Advisory Committee] joined the concert line-up.  She’ll perform “We Shall Overcome” – which is a tune close to Sojourner’s hearts that the students sing nearly daily on their journey.

Additionally, Morgan Freeman [also a National Advisory Committee member with Sojourn] will participate in the night’s festivities as a guest speaker.

The concert will also showcase a reunion of three of the original Freedom Singers, who traveled over 50,000-plus miles during the 1960′s – singing for the cause of freedom for all Americans.  During the February 10th concert (taped), the original Freedom Singers will be: Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon, Rutha Harris, and Charles Neblett.

The President will make opening remarks at this concert, held in the East Room, which will stream live on www.whitehouse.gov, and also result in a one-hour concert special produced by NPR and available starting tomorrow, Feb. 12th.

Take advantage of this wonderful collection of talented performers honoring our nation’s storied history, and share it with your friends and family.  A complete list of performers and guests to participate in the show can be found here.