The Pass Christian Middle School gym reverberated with song, dance, musical performances, excitement and even a performance by “The Supremes” in late February at “Lift Every Voice and Sing: Music of the Culture,” during this year’s annual Black History Month Program, put on by Pre-K through fifth-grade students at Pass Christian Elementary School (PCES).
This year’s program included poetry readings, dance and dramatic performances, singing and a Sikyi ensemble, reflective of traditional dance music of the Ashanti people and youth of central Ghana in Africa.
“With the theme of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing: Music of the Culture,’ the school aims to delve into the rich history of African American culture through the universal language of music,” says Marcedes McMickle, a PCES second- grade teacher. “This program not only focuses on educating and entertaining the audience, but honors the profound contributions of Black musicians throughout history. By embracing the theme of Music for the Culture, PCES aspires to foster inclusivity, inspire creativity and empower the community to embrace and appreciate diversity.”
