Black Artist Excellence
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THE INK SPOTS (1900–1995)
presented by George Neary

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THE INK SPOTS (1900–1995)
presented by George Neary

Poster on heavy cardboard stock advertising a performace of The Four Ink Spots plus the N.B.C. Orchestra in Northfield, VT at the Norwich University Armory on May 3rd.
Poster on heavy cardboard stock advertising a performace of The Four Ink Spots plus the N.B.C. Orchestra in Northfield, VT at the Norwich University Armory on May 3rd.

Influential vocal group whose smooth harmonies and romantic ballad style laid the groundwork for modern R&B and doo-wop vocal ensembles.

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JOSEPHINE BAKER (1906–1975)
presented by Bebe Andrade

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JOSEPHINE BAKER (1906–1975)
presented by Bebe Andrade

An iconic entertainer, dancer, singer, actress and French Resistance hero whose daring performances and activism made her a cultural icon.

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DUKE ELLINGTON (1899–1974)
presented by Glendon Hall

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DUKE ELLINGTON (1899–1974)
presented by Glendon Hall

One of the greatest jazz composers and bandleaders, Ellington shaped orchestral jazz and left a vast legacy of timeless standards.

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CAB CALLOWAY (1907–1994)
presented by Troy E. Wright

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CAB CALLOWAY (1907–1994)
presented by Troy E. Wright

Charismatic swing bandleader known as the “Hi-De-Ho” man, whose energetic scat singing defined the sound of the Harlem Renaissance.

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LOUIS ARMSTRONG (1901–1971)
presented by Steven Anthony

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LOUIS ARMSTRONG (1901–1971)
presented by Steven Anthony

A trumpet virtuoso and joyful showman, Armstrong’s solos and voice brought jazz out of the ensemble playing into the spotlight.

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LIONEL HAMPTON (1908–2002)
presented by Joe McCray

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LIONEL HAMPTON (1908–2002)
presented by Joe McCray

Pioneering vibraphonist and bandleader whose electrifying performances bridged swing and bebop, influencing generations of jazz artists.

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FATS WALLER (1904–1943)
presented by George Neary

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FATS WALLER (1904–1943)
presented by George Neary

Stride-piano genius and comedic entertainer whose playful talent and songwriting made him a jazz sensation of the Roaring ’20s.

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BILLIE HOLLIDAY (1915–1959)
presented by Maryel Epps

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BILLIE HOLLIDAY (1915–1959)
presented by Maryel Epps

With her deeply emotional voice and poignant interpretations, Holliday  broke musical boundaries and gave a haunting voice to racial injustice.

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FLORENCE PRICE (1887-1953)

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FLORENCE PRICE (1887-1953)

A pioneering composer with an impressive body of work and a first African American woman to have a symphony performed by a major U.S. orchestra.