Sankofa Sounds: America 250 celebrates the rich contributions of people of African descent as well as international communities of colors

In the West African tradition, the Adinkra symbol of “Sankofa” depicts a bird with its head turned backwards while its feet face forward carrying a precious egg in its mouth.

The word itself means “go back and fetch it” and is further understood as “looking back to move forward”.

As the culminating event of the inaugural Sonora Cultura Initiative, the concert features music from a variety of genres and cultures performed by leading artists and emerging artists in opera and classical crossover representing the 105 Voices of History National HBCU Choir and the Nashville Bel Canto Foundation.

Join us for an evening of brilliant artistry and celebration of our collective histories in the city that has welcomed so much of the world to this country.

2026 SANKOFA SOUNDS ARTISTS

  • Patrick Dailey, countertenor and curator, artistic director of the 105 Voices of History National HBCU Choir
  • Katy Lee, soprano, 2026 NBCF Exchange Young Artist
  • John Paige, baritone, 2026 HBCU Exchange Young Artist
  • Gary Mitchell, Jr., collaborative pianist and music director

Featured Guest Artist to be announced

ABOUT THE SONORA CULTURA INITIATIVE

The 105 Voices–NBCF collaboration brings together two organizations with distinct cultural and artistic traditions to create transformative opportunities for young singers.

Through training, mentorship, and performance, the expands artistic horizons, deepens mutual understanding, and showcases how different musical styles and cultural perspectives can work toward a shared goal: the creation of great art.

Bel canto, with its centuries- old tradition of beauty of sound and expressive phrasing, and the rich legacy of music by composers of African descent—rooted in resilience, innovation, and cultural pride—may come from different worlds, but they share a fundamental truth: both require discipline, artistry, and emotional honesty to connect with audiences.

This collaboration gives students the tools and experiences to excel in both traditions, proving that diversity in art is not a division but a strength.

The official collaboration was publicly announced at the New York premiere of Sankofa Project: A Journey Through Black Music and Artistry in September of 2025 at Madison Avenue Baptist Church.