Frederick: Cantata on the Life of Frederick DouglassWorld premiere

In this world premiere written by Brian Story, The Worcester Chorus joins the Clark University Choir, New England Repertory Orchestra, and soloist Malcom J. Merriweather under Cailin Marcel Manson’s direction in a cantata about the early life of Frederick Douglass – “Frederick: Cantata on the Life of and Writings of Frederick Douglass”.

Inspired by Nkeiru Okoye’s song cycle “Songs of Harriet Tubman”, Story’s work directly quotes Douglass. Using speeches, newspaper articles, and sections from his autobiography, this massive work portrays Douglass’ life story, with specific sections discussing slavery, freedom, truth, liberty, humanity, emancipation, and education. In nine movements, this work takes the listener on a historical journey through the early life of Frederick Douglass, the most important leader of the Black civil rights in the 19th century.