On April 12, the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir will present Voices of the Spirit at the historic Indiana Landmarks Center, featuring Margaret Bonds’s visionary Credo. Bonds was a groundbreaking black composer who masterfully combined classical music and African American spirituals, creating deeply moving works that resonate across generations.
This special choral music performance invites the Indianapolis community to experience her music through an inclusive pay-what-you-can ticket model—ensuring that everyone, regardless of financial means, can be part of this inspirational concert and have access to choral music.
Margaret Bonds: A Trailblazer in Choral Music
Margaret Bonds (1913–1972) was a musical pioneer, celebrated as one of the first Black women to gain national recognition as a composer and pianist. A student of Florence Price, Bonds was deeply influenced by the poetry of Langston Hughes, often setting his words to music in compositions that uplifted and reflected the African American experience.
Her work seamlessly blended classical traditions, jazz influences, and spirituals, producing a uniquely powerful and evocative sound. Her music remains a testament to the resilience and beauty of Black choral music and continues to inspire singers, musicians, and audiences today.
“Margaret Bonds’ compositions are profound and deeply expressive, bridging cultures and musical traditions in a way that speaks to the soul,” says Jennifer Cooper, Executive Director of the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir. “We are honored to share her work with our community in a way that is accessible to all.”
An Inclusive Experience: Introducing Pay-What-You-Can Tickets
One of the core values of the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir is to make choral music available to everyone, prioritizing accessibility in all that we do. Through our pay-what-you-can model, the entire Indianapolis community is invited to experience this incredible evening of music without financial barriers.
“Music has the power to bring people together, inspire change, and uplift the human spirit,” says Dr. Eric Stark, Artistic Director of the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir. “By offering pay-what-you-can tickets, we are working to ensure that Bonds’ remarkable music reaches as many hearts as possible.”
The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir invites you to celebrate Margaret Bonds and the spirit of community through choral music. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear one of America’s greatest composers in a stunning performance that bridges history, faith, and song. Reserve your tickets now.
