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This is a collection of resources and materials I've created and used for lectures and other presentations on spirituals and coded messages.
Steal Away: Bismarck Mandan Symphony Orchestra & Prairie Jubilee Singers
Lecture Concert on the feast day of St. Bakhita, patron saint of human trafficking
February, 2020
Building Community Through Spirituals: NDACDA Conference Presentation
Dr. Rebecca Raber & Dr. Jeff Stone, presenters
February, 2019
Conducting the Coded Message Songs of Slavery:
Context, Connotation, and Performance Preparation
Doctoral Lecture Recital with "Steal Away Singers"
July, 2018
Coded Messages in Song: Research & Materials
July, 2018
Choral Music of the Americas—Poster Session Presentation
May, 2013
Resource Links
Research/Teaching Photos (labeled for content & location)
Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade
Overview. Click link below for more information—
Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade
Historical Context: Facts about the Slave Trade and Slavery Click link below for more information—
Blue Bottle Tree
Blue bottles were hung upside down on trees and huts to ward off evil spirits. Bottles were also tied to trees near important locations such as meeting places or crossroads to trap any spirits that were travelling. The tradition found its way to America when slave trade began in the 17th century. The legend is, early Africans believed that when night rolled around, the bottles lured and trapped evil spirits in them and held them hostage until the rising of the sun.
Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade
Overview. Click link below for more information—
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