On the recordFebruary 26, 2010
In honor of Black History Month, I rise to celebrate the lives of two African Americans from Erie, Pennsylvania. Born in 1886, Harry T. Burleigh was a world-famous musician. Burleigh was the first African American composer acclaimed for his concert music, and he wrote more than 200 American art songs. After his death in 1949, Harry Burleigh was largely forgotten until Rev. Charles Kennedy of Erie revived his memory. Rev. Kennedy, a minister and a musician, was a distinguished community leader and president of the Harry T. Burleigh Society. He championed the legacy of Burleigh's incredible talent. Sadly, Rev. Kennedy passed away this November. Harry Burleigh and Charles Kennedy made unforgettable contributions to the African American community and all of American society. For Black History Month and every month, we honor their memories.
