BEREA, Ky. — Berea College’s Black Music Ensemble will present its Spring Concert on Friday, March 20, at 7:00 p.m. in Gray Auditorium (Presser Hall). The Music Department lists the concert as free and open to the public.
If you have not been before, this is typically one of the spring performances that feels more like a shared room than a formal recital. The College’s event listing frames it as an evening of gospel and joy, with the kind of call-and-response energy where the audience is part of the experience.
🗣️ About the Ensemble
The Black Music Ensemble is a long-running Berea College performance group dedicated to preserving and performing African-American sacred music, especially spirituals and gospel. The ensemble is directed by Professor E.J. Stokes and Pastor David Simmons.
For local listeners, the draw is simple: It is high-level student performance in a welcoming setting, offering a chance to hear music with deep roots in American culture and church tradition. It also tends to be an easy “bring somebody with you” night since there is no ticket barrier.
ℹ️ Details to Know Before You Go
- When: Friday, March 20 at 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Gray Auditorium, Presser Hall.
- Cost: Free.
- Streaming: Berea College notes that many music events may be streamed live via its Vimeo page.
Official Details:
📅 UPCOMING EVENTS IN BEREA
This Week: Talks & Screenings
Theater & Performance
- Disney’s The Lion King KIDS (Spotlight Playhouse) — Feb. 20–March 1
- Blazing Guns at Roaring Gulch (Spotlight Playhouse) — Feb. 22, 27–28
- The Choir of Man (EKU Center) — Wed., Feb. 25 at 7:00 p.m.
- The Taming of the Shrew (Spotlight Playhouse) — March 6–15
Music, Arts & Community (The Weekend Mix)
- “Dirt Pearls” Art Reception & Live Music (KY Guild) — Sat., Feb. 21 at 5:00 p.m.
- Chili Night Out Fundraiser (Berea Arts Council) — Sat., Feb. 21 at 6:00 p.m.
- William Lee Martin: Comedy All In (One Eyed Jacks) — Sat., Feb. 21 at 8:00 p.m.
- Louisville Orchestra “In Harmony” Tour — Wed., Feb. 25
Classes & Auditions
Macbeth Auditions (Teens & Adults) — Sun., March 8 at 7:30 p.m.
FreeSkool: Herbs for Stress & Resilience — Sun., Feb. 22 at 2:00 p.m.
Annie KIDS Auditions (Ages 4–11) — Sat., Feb. 28 at 10:30 a.m.