Fairfield’s Voices of Youth tells black history through music

The group will run the gamut from gospel to hip-hop

Fairfield High School's African American Voices of Youth, seen here with teacher Damien Strecker (background at left), will perform a variety show that presents different genres of black musical history. The performance is entitled: "History through Music: African-American Creativity from Gospel to Hip-Hop." The performance will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 25. Staff photo by Samantha Grier

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By Michael D. Pitman, Staff Writer 11:49 PM Sunday, February 7, 2010

FAIRFIELD — The African American Voices of Youth will add a musical element to the discussion on black history.

The high school social service organization will present “History through Music: African American Creativity from Gospel to Hip-Hop” later in February, which is also Black History Month. Social studies teacher and organization adviser Damien Strecker said part of the group’s responsibility is to educate the community.

“Some students, at least in the classes I teach, question the purpose of Black History Month. But for me, personally, I always say 11 months out of the year you don’t always hear these stories that are part of the American experience,” Strecker said. “There’s absolutely no way to truly understand the American experience unless you do get these other narratives.”

The group — which normally presents a play for Black History Month — decided to tell black history with the music closely associated with the culture.

“We have a lot of talent at the high school to draw upon and this will be an opportunity to showcase that,” said the third-year teacher.

The performance will start with an introduction of the group and then present, chronologically, music that’s inspired the black culture throughout the years. Students will state the historical significance of each genre and then perform songs.

Fairfield High School Principal Billy Smith said the musical presentation is a celebration.

“Our student population has become much more diverse in the last several years, and as a district we want to make sure we embrace and celebrate our diverse population.”

The organization started as a history club but transformed into a social service club, said Strecker, who’s in his second year leading the group.

The group put its normal activities aside to prepare for the show. Strecker said they normally meet after school a few times a week. They have a history lesson and then group committees will talk about service projects.

The performance will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 25 at the Performing Arts Center at the high school, 8800 Holden Blvd.

Contact this reporter at (513) 755-5112 or mpitman@coxohio.com.

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What is wrong with you commenters that you are attacking:
1. the story of any American (who cares if they are white or black -- just celebrate their accomplishments as Americans!)??

2. kids (they are being given a chance to shine and to showcase their talents in positive ways!)??

I, for one, am happy to see young people involved in any positive endeavor! Congratulations to you, Mr. Strecker, and to your students!

Concerned
10:15 AM, 2/8/2010

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Well put uncle andy well done.

kevin
8:11 AM, 2/8/2010

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When do our tax dollars get to buy a musical strictly about white history? Its a fair question. To those who scream "racism!" at me, all I have to say to you is:

Here on the Fairfield Animal Farm, all animals are equal, and some animals are more equal than others.

Uncle Andy
7:28 AM, 2/8/2010

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