To
launch the Redemption Song Programme, a free concert was held on Brighton
seafront featuring the vocal talents of 200 local artists and award-winning
musician Cleveland Watkiss.
Local community choirs including Brighton Goes Gospel, Soulful Singing, Vocal Explosion, Return to the Rhythm, Jam Tarts and We-Bop Harmony performed inspirational acappella routines then joined together to form a mass choir to sing a very moving rendition of Bob Marley’s classic record Redemption Song. The event was attended by over 800 people who all paid tribute to victims of slavery – past and present – by holding a two minute silence.
To
ensure as many members of the community as possible got the opportunity
to participate in the event, details were circulated
widely via voluntary sector groups, community organisations, schools
and youth clubs, vocal groups, faith groups
and internet forums. All were invited to join in regardless of
background or singing experience. Rehearsals were arranged for those able to attend,
and the lyrics to the song were distributed in advance as well as to the
audience on the day to enable everyone to join the throng.
Feedback on the Opening Ceremony
Each of the vocal groups who participated and a few individual artists had the opportunity to perform from their own repertoire to a large audience. This was followed by a 40 minute set by Cleveland Watkiss who enthralled the crowd with his exceptional vocal range and stage presence before leading all the artists who had gathered to sing the finale en masse.
This event promoted participation and inclusion on many levels and the free outdoor venue in a prominent central location ensured it was highly accessible. The huge response to the initial call for artists clearly indicated the effectiveness of the targeted strategy to encourage ordinary people to take part, and quite literally get their voices heard.
| "A lovely event which served to remind us to honour those who were enslaved, and also lifted our spirits." |
| "The choir master was excellent: a truly hypnotic voice. Redemption Song was the perfect song to mark the memory." |
| "I was really pleased that this important event was marked in such a positive way. I was really delighted to participate." |
|
"I didn’t even know this was taking place – I heard the music while I was walking on the beach and joined the crowd. It was an amazing event and really moving… we should have more free celebrations like this." |
|
Photos by Dave Flindall. |
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