Africans who became victims of the slave trade were unaware their passionate celebration of music would one day be written down and published for people around the world to sing and appreciate. Notes have been changed and rhythms have been altered, but Negro spirituals have maintained their unique style and spirit throughout the years. In this book, Ann Lee-Thompson tells her version of the origin of Negro spirituals, and how Africans brought music to America from their homeland. She sheds light on the creation of the music, using original melodic and rhythmic patterns and Bible stories, resulting in a unique art form that expressed the trials and hardships of slavery. Lee-Thompson maintains that Negro spirituals are the harbinger of all African-American music, which continues to evolve from Negro spirituals.

About the Author

Ann Lee-Thompson is a native of South Carolina who currently resides in Arlington, Texas. She received a masters degree in guidance and counseling, a masters degree in vocal music education, and a bachelors degree in vocal music education from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. She taught vocal music education in Detroit Public Schools for 38 years. In her free time, Ann is a storyteller with the Arlington, Texas, Story League, a docent with the Symphony League of Fort Worth, Texas, and is the founder and director of the Jubilee Chorale of Arlington, Texas. She has traveled to Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, and the Caribbean Islands. Ann has also published Opera World: An Overture for Young People.