How Sweet the Sound: A Celebration of Black Music in America

Black History Month Concert – Free and Open to the Public

Chautauqua Lake Central School District is thrilled to host How Sweet the Sound: A Celebration of Black Music in America. This free event, in celebration of Black History Month, is open to the public and promises to be a powerful and joyful exploration of Black musical traditions that have shaped the American cultural landscape.

Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 4:00 PM
Chautauqua Lake District Auditorium
100 N. Erie Street, Mayville, NY 14757

This special event brings together acclaimed artists, poets, musicians, and student performers for an afternoon of music, poetry, and storytelling that celebrates Black voices and artistry in America.

Featured Artists & Performers

• Kwame Alexander, Emmy Award–winning producer and New York Times bestselling author

• Maritri Garrett, vocalist and artist

• Justin Bell, operatic tenor

• Jordan Holmes, poet

• D’Jena Kelly-Perry, actress

• Jillian Hanesworth, Poet Laureate Emeritus of Buffalo

• Fredonia Chamber Choir, under the direction of Dr. Vernon Huff

• Chautauqua Lake High School Choir, under the direction of Jenn Davis

The program will be hosted by Cousin Sean, the newly appointed Director of the African American Heritage House at Chautauqua.

Additional Highlights

• A special sculpture exhibition featuring the work of Dare Coulter

• A welcoming, community-centered celebration open to attendees from Mayville, Jamestown, Chautauqua, and surrounding areas

Admission

This concert is free and open to all.

Sponsors

We thank our generous sponsors for their support:

• One World at a Time

• African American Heritage House at Chautauqua

• Chautauqua Lake Central School District

Link to Tickets

Buy Tickets