Black Voices

A capella ensemble Black Voices was established in 1987 by Bob Ramdhanie and Carol Pemberton. All the performers were born and grew up in Birmingham.

The five original members of Black Voices have all come through the black churches and have been thoroughly grounded in the music of a black international community. Currently, the group operates as a professional collective, researching and rehearsing with five to nine members, but maintaining its tradition of performing as a quintet.

Black Voices’ wide repertoire covers gospel, spirituals, reggae, blues, jazz, popular songs and traditional African and Caribbean music. Crossing language and cultural barriers, the group’s performances are powerful, uplifting, emotional and inspiring.

Particular highlights for the group have included performing for Nelson Mandela in South Africa and London, performing for The Royal Family and The Pope, supporting Ray Charles and performing in the BBC Proms. Black Voices have also had their own BBC Radio 2 a cappella series, presented by Carol Pemberton.

Black Voices are delighted to be an Associate Ensemble of Town Hall, Birmingham, continuing a relationship that began over 12 years ago. The ensemble played a leading role in Hallelujah!, the Town Hall Re-opening Concert, and will be presenting other concerts and collaborating with Performances Birmingham’s flourishing citywide singing programme.

www.blackvoices.co.uk

Black Voices events