Black History Month Event: A New Era of Conductors

The national theme for Black History Month 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts,” and organizations large and small across the country are highlighting the significant impact that Black Americans have had on visual arts, music, dance, theater, and so much more.

In a fitting tribute to this year’s theme, the newest conductors of St. Olaf College’s internationally renowned music ensembles will present a panel discussion on their work on Thursday, February 29, at 11:30 a.m. in Viking Theater.

The conversation with St. Olaf Band Conductor Henry Dorn, St. Olaf Jazz Conductor Joseph Jefferson, and St. Olaf Orchestra Conductor Chung Park will be moderated by longtime St. Olaf Choir Conductor Anton Armstrong ’78. The event will provide an overview of music at St. Olaf, an introduction to each of the new conductors, and time for attendees to ask questions. All are welcome to attend.

Park took the reins of the St. Olaf Orchestra in the fall of 2022, and Dorn and Jefferson arrived on campus to lead their ensembles in the fall of 2023. All three are award-winning musicians and educators who bring exceptional talent and perspective to their work. At St. Olaf they have received the steadfast support and mentorship of Armstrong, a well-known and highly regarded musician who has led the St. Olaf Choir for 34 years.

Watch these music leaders share about their work and vision for the future of music at St. Olaf in “A New Era of Conductors,” a video and story profile included in the winter digital issue of St. Olaf Magazine. Then join them on campus on February 29 to honor and celebrate Black History Month.