UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State School of Music's Essence of Joy choral ensemble, in the College of Arts and Architecture, will present “Massive Contributions” at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, in the School of Music Recital Hall at University Park. Directed by Arreon A. Harley-Emerson, the concert celebrates the ensemble’s 35th anniversary year and the Black composers and arrangers whose work has shaped choral music across generations and genres.
The program brings together spirituals, sacred concert music, hymns and contemporary gospel. Its selections trace themes of perseverance, compassion, faith and renewed possibility while highlighting the breadth of Black musical expression.
The opening set features Betty Jackson King’s "Psalm 57," Rollo Dilworth’s "Joshua!," Undine Smith Moore’s "Striving after God," and Moses Hogan’s arrangement of "My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord." Later selections include Jester Hairston’s "Hold On!," Hogan’s "Abide with Me," B.E. Boykin’s "Holding the Light," and Marques L. A. Garrett’s "Soon I Will Be Done."
Robert Ray’s "Gospel Mass" forms a centerpiece of the concert, bringing the expressive language of the Black church into the six-movement sacred choral work. Margaret Bonds’ "St. Francis’ Prayer" turns toward peace and service, followed by Thomas Whitfield’s "I Shall Wear a Crown," with arrangements by Trey McLaughlin and Brandon Waddles. Kirk Franklin’s "Brighter Day" closes the program with a celebration of hope.
The concert also marks significant composer anniversaries: the 125th anniversary of Hairston’s birth and the 80th anniversary of Ray’s birth in 2026. The 2026-27 season anticipates the 70th anniversary of Hogan’s birth on March 13, 2027.
Harley-Emerson will be joined by graduate conductor Juliana Child, collaborative pianist Charles Lisa, bassist Neal Holter, and drummer Suryaram Jagadesan.
Founded in November 1991 by Anthony Leach, Essence of Joy performs sacred and secular music from African and African American traditions. Its anniversary season honors that legacy through music that continues to shape how choirs and communities sing together.
Online tickets are $16.50 for adults and $9 for students. Tickets may be purchased through the Penn State Arts Ticket Center; phone orders are available at 814-863-0255.