Artist-In-Residence

Mr. Burrs as artist-in-residence would spend one to three weeks on campus interacting with the student choral ensemble, solo voices, classical and jazz instrumentalist preparing them for a performance of his compositions. The compositions are described as Urban Classical Music combining classical, African American and contemporary music idioms. The coaching sessions and rehearsals scheduled during the residency would serve an educational function enhancing and developing the students' creative and technical skills. The residency would culminate in a concert performance of these original works featuring the varying student ensembles. Members of Mr. Burrs' quartet CHAKABA could perform in conjunction with the student choral and instrumental ensembles. The members of CHAKABA tour, record and are recognized internationally for their work. The students would have the opportunity to work with world class musicians. Students of the Art and Dance departments could supplement the performance by creating images to be used as stage projections and choreography reflecting the music performed.

Classroom and Public Presentations

Mr. Burrs would be available for classroom and community outreach presentations to discuss his perspective and approach to creating new works. The departments and courses that would benefit from this project include the Music, Opera, Theater and African American Studies, English and American Literature courses, Art and American History.