Spotlight

KET offers special programming for Black History Month

Friday, Jan. 28, 2011

Throughout February, KET presents programming celebrating Black History Month, from military history to concert specials.

First, For Love of Liberty: The Story of America’s Black Patriots looks at the largely untold history of African-American participation in America’s armed forces, from the earliest days of the Revolutionary War to the conflict in Afghanistan. Introduced by General Colin Powell and hosted by Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry, the film uses letters, diaries, speeches, historical texts, and military records to document and acknowledge the profound sacrifices of African-American service men and women. It airs Wednesdays, Feb. 2 and 9, at 9/8 p.m. CT on KET2.

Then, Gospel Meets Symphony: Let Freedom Ring! offers a unique and uplifting concert experience. The Akron Symphony Orchestra and a 200-voice choir blend two time-honored musical genres — soul-stirring gospel and classical melodies. Maestro Christopher Wilkins leads the combined orchestra and choir from more than 50 churches in performances from Verdi’s “Nabucco” to “When I Rose This Morning” and “Ride on King Jesus.” The concert airs Tuesday, Feb. 22 at 8/7 p.m. CT on KET2.

Next, from slave cabins on the plantation, through the minstrel era, into Appalachia and eventually into the hands of Pete Seeger, Sojourn of the Strings traces the evolution of the banjo Monday, Feb. 28 at 10/9 p.m. CT on KET.

And, In Performance at the White House “Motown 50th Anniversary Celebration” premieres Tuesday, March 1 at 8/7 pm CT on KET. The East Room of the White House will be the setting for this all-star tribute to the legendary Motown sound as President and Mrs. Obama host musical stars from the label’s golden age as well as young performers influenced by Motown and its powerful legacy. The Motown record label launched a historic cultural shift, wtih cross-over hits and artists such as Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and the Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Mary Wells, The Four Tops, and many others.

Finally, stay tuned to weekly KET productions Kentucky Life, Louisville Life, Connections with Renee Shaw, and One to One with Bill Goodman for highlights celebrating Black History Month.