Latest News
2021 Medal of Arts Recipients honored by President Biden
(Lead Photo: Legendary Singer Gladys Knight being awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Biden.) HONORED: President Joseph R. Biden presented the 2021 National Medals of Arts in conjunction with the National Humanities Medals on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at...
Founder’s Day Convocation at Virginia State University Featured Dr. Jack Thomas, President of Central State University as Guest Speaker
(LEAD PHOTO: The Men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at VSU join fellow Fraternity Brother, Dr. Jack Thomas for a photo.) On March 24, 2023, Virginia State University located in Petersburg,VA celebrated its founding with a series of event, culminating in the...
Annual Gala Amplifies the Global Reach of the Arts in the Bustle of the City
Washington Performing Arts hosted its Annual Gala on March 11, 2023 at the National Building Museum.
Top Performances and Arts Events Post Pandemic 2022
BACK ON STAGE: After an array of performance cancellations and venue constraints, ensembles began to return to the stage in full force with exciting productions. LEAD PHOTO: The Washington Bach Consort performed the world-premiere of "A New Song" by Trevor Weston at...
Choral Arts Society of Washington 42nd Annual Holiday Concert and Gala Ushered in a New Tradition
A BURST OF JOY: In their first holiday gala concert as artistic director, Dr. Jace Kaholokula Saplan led The Choral Arts Society of Washington in a program of both familiar and new seasonal gems in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall (PHOTOS: Shannon Finney Photography)...
Haiti Micah Project President and Founder The Rev. Joseph M. Constant to Receive 2022 United States President’s Lifetime Achievement Award
Washington Bach Consort Season Opener to Feature World Premiere by Composer Trevor Weston
A NEW SONG: Reflecting on several ideas about music, Trevor Weston's new work is to be featured by the Washington Bach Consort. by Patrick D. McCoy This Sunday, September 18 at 4 PM The Washington Bach Consort will open its 45th Anniversary season with the...
New Beginnings: Stephen Marc Beaudoin Named Executive Director of South Orange Performing Arts Center
Back in Action: Beaudoin soars into a new level of responsiblity by Patrick D. McCoy We recently shared in an exclusive that Stephen Marc Beaudoin was moving from his post as executive director of The Washington Chorus after leading with great excellence, especially...
Jason Max Ferdinand Singers Set to Make Début in Nation’s Capital August 13
ON THE HORIZON: After several acclaimed performances, including a highly heralded Canada appearance, The Jason Max Ferdinand Singers will make their official Washington, D.C. début in the grandeur of National City Christian Church. by Patrick D. McCoy For those who...
An Evening to Remember: The Music of Brahms Captured a Wide Range of Emotions in Choral Arts Concert Honoring Scott Tucker
DEPTH AND JOY VIRTUAL REVIEW: Wide-Ranging Program of Music by Johannes Brahms captured the soundtrack of Scott Tucker's Choral Arts tenure. LEAD PHOTO: Shannon Finney Photography by Patrick D. McCoy The all Brahms evening presented last night at Washington National...
Where it All Began: Choral Arts Artistic Director Scott Tucker to Mark the End of His Tenure with Concert at Washington National Cathedral
A MUSICAL CORNERSTONE: In June of 2012, Scott Tucker was widely introduced to the DC Choral Community at the conclusion of a celebration for Choral Arts Founder Norman Scribner. His final concert with Choral Arts will take place in the very same space. by Patrick D....
Chesterfield County, Virginia native and acclaimed composer Damien Geter set to have his “An African American Requiem” receive its East Coast Premiere at The Kennedy Center
Following its world premiere by the west coast based Resonance Ensemble, Geter's work will be performed on Monday, May 23, 2022 in collaboration withThe Choral Arts Society of Washington. by TE DEUM ARTS MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS The Choral Arts Society of Washington will...
Courageous Song: University Choirs join together for 20 Year Anniversary Performance of the “Defiant Requiem”
Several Choirs from Virginia Commonwealth University, Longwood University, American University, University of Virginia, Catholic University and Virginia State University combine to render the 20th Anniversary performance of the "Defiant Requiem" conducted by Murry...
Erin Freeman to Become the Next Artistic Director of The City Choir of Washington
ON THE SCENE: Founded by DC choral titan, Robert 'Bob' Shafer to critical acclaim, Erin Freeman is selected to carry forth the choral legacy of The City Choir of Washington. by Patrick D. McCoy Erin Freeman who is currently Director of the Richmond Symphony Chorus,...
Annual Pre-Congressional Black Caucus Arts Reception Set to Virtually Honor Luminaries that Have Pivoted During the Pandemic
A VIRTUAL CELEBRATION: The Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts will recognize Black Opera Stars-sopranos Nicole Heaston, Karen Slack, baritone Kenneth Overton, tenor Lawrence Brownlee and Senator Melony Griffith on Saturday, September 11th. by...
BREAKING NEWS: Conductor Scott Tucker Shares About His Decision to Depart as Artistic Director of the Choral Arts Society of Washington
EXCLUSIVE: Handpicked by the late Norman Scribner, Founder of the Choral Arts Society of Washington to succeed him, Scott Tucker has carried the rich legacy forward with such class, musicality, dignity and rapport. I am thankful that he and Choral Arts chose me...
THE SPOTLIGHT SERIES: Soprano NaGuanda Nobles chats about this Sunday’s Concert Henosis
Soprano NaGuanda Nobles (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., jazz trumpeter Kirk Nobles (Kappa Alpha Psi) and tenor Roderick George (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.) recently chatted with "Across the Arts" Creator+Host Patrick D. McCoy about "Henosis," bringing...
The Kennedy Center and Ford’s Theatre Announce Requirements for Audience Members in Regards to COVID-19 Vaccinations
FROM A PRESS RELEASE: The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and Ford’s Theatre, both examples of public/private partnerships in the nation’s capital, will be joining performing arts venues in the Washington, D.C. region and around the country, to provide...
THE OPERA DIVA SERIES: Legendary Soprano Roberta Alexander
ACROSS THE ARTS: Creator + Host Patrick D. McCoy welcomed legendary soprano Roberta Alexander to the ranks of THE OPERA DIVA SERIES. WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW: (subscribe to the "Across the Arts" YouTube Channel Roberta Alexander appeared as Pamina at the Houston...
Grammy Award-Winning Mezzo-Soprano Joyce DiDonato Among Headliners for Washington Performing Arts 2021-22 Season
NEW SEASON ANNOUNCED: Leading the way with ambitious virtual programming during the pandemic, Washington Performing Arts recently unveiled its return to live performances with the announcement of its 2021-2022 season. FROM THE VAULT (2011): Mezzo-soprano Joyce...
Free Summer Arts Camp Kicks Off August 9
FREE ACCESS TO ARTS OPPORTUNITIES: The Prince George’s County Local Development Council (PGCLDC) funds free week-long performance arts camp for youth. Partnering with the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA ) a non-profit arts...
Honoring Excellence: The Sphinx Organization Names 2022 Class of Medal Recipients
TRIO OF GREATNESS: Soprano Karen Slack, violinist Randall Goosby and pianist Michelle Cann have all been named the 2022 recipients of the Sphinx Medal of Excellence by Patrick D. McCoy The Sphinx Organization has announced the three recipients of the 2022 Sphinx...
THE CONVERSATION SERIES: Dr Ronald A. Crutcher, 10th President of the University of Richmond
The 10th President of the University of Richmond Dr. Ronald A. Crutcher sits down for THE CONVERSATION SERIES with "Across the Arts" CREATOR + HOST Patrick D. McCoy to discuss his plans as he finishes up his final 6th year at the university, his book and arts...
THE MAESTRA SERIES: Naima Burrs-Conductor and Violinist
Richmond, Virginia native Naima Burrs recently was a guest on "Across the Arts" as a part of The Maestra Series, a new series celebrating women conductors. WATCH THE INTERVIEW:
BEETHOVEN’S “ODE TO JOY” PROJECT PROVIDED PRIZE-WINNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE STUDENTS OF PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS DURING THE PANDEMIC
JOYFUL JOYFUL: A special celebratory virtual program paid tribute to Ludwig Van Beethoven’s 250th birthday during the pandemic crisis academic school year, presenting a unique opportunity for the students and teachers of Prince George's County Public Schools. by...
Summer Recital set to feature soprano Shana Oshiro and tenor Allan Palacios Chan
An Enchanting Evening of Music-7/9 In partnership with Arts Club of Washington, the Coalition for African Americas in the Performing Arts (CAAPA) brings artistic diversity in a special evening of music featuring cocktails, concert and dinner. Produced by the Coalition...
THE OPERA DIVA SERIES: World-Renowned mezzo-soprano Jennifer Larmore Guest on “Across the Arts”
ACROSS THE ARTS: Creator+ Host Patrick D. McCoy recently welcomed the Two-Time Grammy Award winning mezzo-soprano Jennifer Larmore to THE OPERA DIVA SERIES. WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE:
AT THE HELM: Allan Laiño named Artistic Director of The Congressional Chorus
NEW LEADERSHIP: No stranger to the fabric of the DC music community as a professor and several organizations such as The Washington Chorus, Allan Laiño takes on another appointment. by Patrick D. McCoy It was announced today that Allan Laiño has been named as the...
FROM THE ARCHIVES Artists’ Concert Attire: A Feature on WQXR
FROM THE ARCHIVES: We revisit this (2011) WQXR podcast with host Naomi Lewin on what is considered appropriate concert attire or not. Produced by Brian Wise Read through the fall brochures and web sites of many American symphony orchestras and concert halls and one...
Sunshine and Rain: An Unexpected Delight
REVIEW: Originally to be performed in the 'Secret Garden,' the outdoor performance space of the Alexandria based Classical Movements, the concert by the Choral Arts Society of Washington Chamber Singers found safe-haven in nearby Saint Paul's Episcopal Church. by...
THE MAESTRA SERIES: Conductor Renée Baker
INTRODUCING: THE MAESTRA SERIES Chicago-based conductor and composer Renée Baker joins "Across the Arts" creator + host Patrick D. McCoy as the inaugural guest of the series. WATCH HERE
WORLD PREMIERE: Choral Arts Chamber Singers set to premiere “Stand Up” by B. E. Boykin
I HEAR AMERICA SINGING: The Choral Arts Chamber Singers, a smaller vocal ensemble from the larger symphonic choir will present a special outdoor concert under the auspices of Classical Movements based in Alexandria featuring the styles and languages of Asia and...
THE MAESTRO SERIES: Wayne Marshall
The incomparable conductor, organist and pianist Wayne Marshall joined the latest installment of THE MAESTRO SERIES on "Across the Arts" with Creator and Host Patrick D. McCoy. ACROSS THE ARTS MORE ABOUT WAYNE MARSHALL British conductor, organist and pianist Wayne...
Happy Birthday Diane! JEJ Artists and “Across the Arts” partner to host Virtual 80th Birthday Celebration for Legendary Organist Diane Bish
THE FIRST LADY OF THE ORGAN: A virtual celebration was orchestrated to mark the 80th birthday of the world-renowned organist Diane Bish. Special guests included Ken Medema, Paul Jacobs, Angela Brown, Michael Barone, among others. Watch the video on "Across the Arts"
Washington Performing Arts Leads the Way in Presenting the World Premiere of Daniel Bernard Roumain’s Aria “They Still Want to Kill Us”
COMING TOGETHER: Washington Performing Arts joins forces with other leading arts organizations to present Daniel Bernard Roumain's uncensored aria "They Still Want to Kill Us" with mezzo-soprano J'Nai Bridges. On May 25, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific/8:00 p.m. EDT,...
THE MAESTRO SERIES: An Interview with World-Renowned Composer and Conductor John Rutter
The distinguished composer and conductor John Rutter joined "Across the Arts" host Patrick D. McCoy for a 'live' conversation on April 30, 2021. Click the link to view it in its entirety.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Award-winning singer Norm Lewis joins the Coalition for African-Americans in the Performing Arts Board of Directors
A High Profile Presence: The Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts makes yet another remarkable addition to its Board of Directors. FROM A PRESS RELEASE: Celebrated singer and actor Norm Lewis recently was named to the board of directors of the...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Well-Respected Businessman, Philanthropist and Patron of the Arts Reginald Van Lee named Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts
With a record of excellence and leadership within several arts organizations, Reginald Van Lee has been named the new chairman of the board. On Monday, February 8, 2021 it was announced that the highly regarded Reginald Van Lee will become the new Chairman of...
BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2021: DC Area Arts Organization Set to Launch Ambitious Calendar of Offerings Leading Into Black History Month
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The Coalition for African-Americans in the Performing Arts announces its robust calendar of virtual robust programming: from concerts, panel discussions and more, leading into Black History Month, through mid-Spring. Continuing to provide...
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Greg Watkins named Artistic Director of the Newly Formed CAAPA Chorale
Howard University Alumnus and Local Performer Greg Watkins to lead new African-American Classical Music Chorale under the auspices of The Coalition for African-Americans in the Performing Arts. NOTE TO PUBLICATIONS, EDITORS AND FREELANCERS: All editorial coverage...
National Arts Presenter Responds to Horrific Events at the US Capitol
SPEAKING OUT: Known for their diverse programming and the providing of performance opportunities across a wide spectrum of the DC arts community, Washington Performing Arts responds to the recent events at the U. S. Capitol. Patrick D. McCoy In a recent press...
Music of Renowned Composer Adolphus Hailstork to be Featured at 2021 Presidential Inauguration
A WELL-DESERVED PRESENCE: The celebrated composer Adolphus Hailstork will have his music featured at the 2021 Presidential Inauguration. by Patrick D. McCoy According to publicist and music historian Bill Doggett, "The President's Own" United States Marine Band will...
A NEW MEANING TO ‘PERFORMANCE SPACE’-2020 Year End Review
Pandemic Platforms: With the onset of the devastating COVID-19 outbreak, the performing arts community had to find a new home in the digital space to share and nurture their artistic talents. Here are some of the presentations that have been eye-catching during this...
DC-Area Based Haiti Micah Project to Host Virtual Holiday Concert
A SPECIAL CAUSE: The Haiti Micah Project in partnership with the music ministry of Saint John's Episcopal Church will present "An Evening of Music for the Season" a special virtual concert to benefit children, youth and young adults in Haiti. by Patrick D. McCoy On...
The Music of Chesterfield County Native Damien Geter to Receive World-Premiere
IN OUR OWN BACKYARD: 1998 Matoaca High School Damien Geter, who is making his mark as an operatic soloist and composer will have his new work "Cantata for a More Hopeful Tomorrow" featured in a world premiere virtually this Saturday by The Washington Chorus. by...
For Such A Time As This: “One Vote Won” Explores the Importance of the Right to Vote
WHEN VOICES COUNT: Composer Dave Ragland explores the Black vote with his new opera "One Vote Won" for Nashville Opera. LEAD PHOTO: Tamica Nicole in the lead role of Gloria, who ponders why she should vote in the election. by Patrick D. McCoy This season of the...
Composers Adolphus Hailstork and Rollo Dilworth recently featured on The Washington Chorus’ Virtual Series
VIRTUAL OPEN SINGS: The Washington Chorus' TWC Host Patrick D. McCoy welcomed conductor Dr. Katherine FitzGibbon and composers Dr. Rollo A. Dilworth and Dr. Adolphus Hailstork, whose music was featured as a part of The Washington Chorus' Virtual Sings in partnership...
SOLACE THROUGH MUSIC: New Orchestra of Washington and Choral Arts to perform Dia De Los Muertos Concert to Honor Lives Lost to COVID-19
A VIRTUAL COMMEMORATION: As most performing arts organizations, New Orchestra of Washington and The Choral Arts Society of Washington present the Brahms’ Requiem in a fresh online experience. by Patrick D. McCoy In previous seasons, Choral Arts and The New Orchestra...
MY DÉBUT AS GUEST HOST AND CREATIVE PRODUCER TODAY AT 5 PM EDT
TUNE IN "Generations" will mark my début as Guest Host and Creative Producer of The Washington Chorus ' TWC TV today at 5 pm EDT. VIEW ON YOUTUBE WATCH ON FACEBOOK We all have experienced the connection and joy that music brings from generation to generation. Dave and...
“Seven o’ Clock Shout” by composer Valerie Coleman to be featured in the Philadelphia Orchestra’s Season Opener
Classical Voice North America caught up with composer Valerie Coleman from her home in Florida to chat about her piece “Seven o’ clock Shout being featured in The Philadelphia Orchestra’s Virtual Season Opener.
The Washington Chorus’ TWC TV Names a New Host
A NEW HOST: In a surprise announcement on the 9/24/2020 installment of TWC TV ahead of its 60th Anniversary Birthday Bash next month, Executive Director of The Washington Chorus Stephen Marc Beaudoin announced that DC based arts journalist, radio host and musician...
CAMEO APPEARANCE: Arts Journalist Patrick D. McCoy Set to Appear Today at 5 PM EDT on TWC TV
TUNE IN: The Washington Chorus will stream its popular popular TWC TV Virtual Show, ahead of its 60th Anniversary Virtual Birthday Bash today at 5 PM EDT LEARN MORE AND WATCH HERE ON FACEBOOK WATCH HERE ON YOUTUBE TODAY AT 5 PM Patrick D. McCoy who most know as an...
September 2020 Issue of Early Music America features a conversation with legendary countertenor Derek Lee Ragin
The world renowned countertenor Derek Lee Ragin is featured in the September 2020 issue of Early Music America’s EMag.
THE CELEBRITY SERIES: An interview with internationally acclaimed baritone Jubilant Sykes set for Thursday, September 3, 2020 at 2 PM EDT
WITH JUBILATION: The world-renowned singer Jubilant Sykes joins “Across the Arts” in conversation about his career and the next guest of THE CELEBRITY SERIES. On Thursday, September 3, 2020 at 2 PM EDT, the acclaimed baritone will join Patrick D. McCoy in conversation on Facebook Live as well as YouTube.
A Virtual Passport: National Chamber Ensemble Season Takes the Audience on a European Vacation
MOVING FORWARD: The National Chamber Ensemble is set to launch its new season with a combination of virtual and live musical experiences. by Patrick D. McCoy The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly put a damper on so many musical performances and arts venues around the...
SKY HIGH: Soprano Janinah Burnett uses her NYC balcony as a launch pad to share her soaring voice
WITH A VOICE UPLIFTED: In the midst of this trying time because of the COVID-19 pandemic, soprano Janinah Burnett has created an unlikely stage to share her musical gifts. by Patrick D. McCoy I am sure that many of us have seen the stories of numerous musicians...
LIVESTREAM: Patrick D. McCoy TV
WATCH PATRICK D. McCOY LIVE TV:
INTRODUCING: “Reaching for Excellence” A Media Arts Virtual Course
Taking it to the Next Level: "Reaching for Excellence" set to launch virtual media arts course Initially conceived solely as a book project, "Reaching for Excellence" has been re-envisioned as virtual media arts course taught by arts journalist Patrick D. McCoy. This...
INTERVIEW: The Spotlight Series with tenor Issachah Savage
A PRIZE-WINNING TENOR: The Philadelphia native and Washington, DC native Issachah Savage joined arts journalist Patrick D. McCoy on "Across the Arts" via Facebook Live to chat about his career and upcoming live recital under the auspices of Classical Movements....
AWE AND JOY: Choral Arts Virtual Programming Aims to Awaken the Spirit
MOVING AHEAD: In efforts to inspire with music during the pandemic, Choral Arts announced its virtual programming today in a special announcement. by Patrick D. McCoy With the current pandemic, arts organizations around the world have had to pivot during these...
BREAKING NEWS: The Two-Time Grammy Award Winning Washington Chorus Names Conductor Dr. Eugene Rogers as its next Artistic Director
EXCLUSIVE: A Game Changing Appointment: On the cusp of its nearly 60 year choral presence in our Nation's Capital, Eugene Rogers will be the first African-American conductor of The Washington Chorus, one of our country's premiere symphonic choirs. Here, we share...
Featured Video
THE OPERA DIVA SERIES: Legendary Soprano Roberta Alexander
ACROSS THE ARTS: Creator + Host Patrick D. McCoy welcomed legendary soprano Roberta Alexander to the ranks of THE OPERA DIVA SERIES. WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW: (subscribe to the "Across the Arts" YouTube Channel Roberta Alexander appeared as Pamina at the Houston...
Featured Article
2021 Medal of Arts Recipients honored by President Biden
(Lead Photo: Legendary Singer Gladys Knight being awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Biden.) HONORED: President Joseph R. Biden presented the 2021 National Medals of Arts in conjunction with the National Humanities Medals on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 at...
Latest Trends
“Seven o’ Clock Shout” by composer Valerie Coleman to be featured in the Philadelphia Orchestra’s Season Opener
Classical Voice North America caught up with composer Valerie Coleman from her home in Florida to chat about her piece “Seven o’ clock Shout being featured in The Philadelphia Orchestra’s Virtual Season Opener.
A Virtual Passport: National Chamber Ensemble Season Takes the Audience on a European Vacation
MOVING FORWARD: The National Chamber Ensemble is set to launch its new season with a combination of virtual and live musical experiences. by Patrick D. McCoy The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly put a damper on so many musical performances and arts venues around the...
REVIEW: Soprano Michelle Bradley makes her Kennedy Center Recital Début
SOARING HIGH Presented in her Washington recital début by Vocal Arts DC, soprano Michelle Bradley sang an impressive recital in The Terrace Theater on Wednesday evening. by Patrick D. McCoy With the advent of social media, the musical talents of an artist can be...