It was a special event, and not just because it's always special when a 35-voice gospel choir unleashes its joyous power.
It was also more than just a concert. It was a family event conceived by Brian Blade, a renowned jazz drummer, who grew up in Shreveport's Zion Baptist church playing with and listening to his father, Pastor Brady Blade, a vocalist and powerful preacher.
The younger Blade wanted to get a recording of the music while his father, now 70, was still able. To do so, he enlisted Daniel Lanois, one of the most respected music producers in the industry. And he found another partner in Duke University.
Duke brought the performers to Durham as part of its 2009-2010 performing arts series, and in two concerts, a Sunday morning service and a series of workshops, a recording was created and a lot of great music was played. Boundaries also came down between jazz and gospel and between black and white. And even non-believers could feel the energy in the music.
Pastor Blade was the star. His soulful singing was still sweet and strong, and his down-home stage presence provided a centerpiece around which everything else turned.
At one point, Pastor Blade thanked Duke for making it all possible. Indeed, it was a treat for the Duke community and the public to be present at the performances. It was also a reminder of the artistic and cultural benefits Duke brings to Durham.
From the Nasher Museum of Art to the American Dance Festival, Duke's presence and promotion of the arts offers Durham residents opportunities many far larger cities would envy.
There are many more offerings to come this season, including first-class dance, theater and music. To learn more about what's on the calendar, check out http://dukeperformances.duke.edu/.
