Exploring themes of slavery and freedom, Mighty River combines contemporary classical techniques with spirituals which were introduced to Hull in 1871 by the Fisk Jubilee Singers – an African-American a cappella choir of ex-slaves. The piece, written for orchestra, takes its inspiration from William Wilberforce the English politician, philanthropist and leader of the movement to abolish the slave trade who was, very fittingly, a native of Hull.
This piece is part of PRS Foundation's New Music Biennial 2017.
Mighty River is supported by the RVW Trust and The Radcliffe Trust. It was commissioned by Rev John and Mrs Carol Wates & produced by Oxford Contemporary Music.
Orchestra X
Andrew Morley conductor
AUDIO
FUNDERS
RECORDING CREDITS
The performance of Mighty River was recorded and broadcast live on 1 July 2017 by the BBC at Hull City Hall on BBC Radio 3.